UAE Transit Visa: Free 48h & 96h Stopovers
UAE transit visa for Dubai and Abu Dhabi layovers — free options available. 48-hour and 96-hour stopovers, Dubai Connect, and eligibility by nationality.
Overview
The UAE Transit Visa allows travelers to exit the airport during a layover in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah. This is useful if you have a long connection and want to explore the city.
Two options: - 48-Hour Transit Visa: Short layover, explore quickly - 96-Hour Transit Visa: Longer layover, more time to see UAE
Who needs it: If your nationality requires a UAE visa (India, Pakistan, Nigeria, Philippines, Bangladesh, etc.) and you want to leave the airport during your layover, you need a transit visa.
Note: If staying inside the airport transit area, no visa is required.
Eligibility Requirements
- Confirmed onward flight within 48 or 96 hours
- Valid passport with 6+ months validity
- Hotel booking for transit period
- Sufficient funds for transit stay
- No UAE visa ban
Required Documents
Valid Passport
RequiredClear colour scan of your passport biographical page — must be valid for at least 6 months from travel date
Passport Photo
RequiredStrict official technical requirements regarding composition, sizing, and lighting for your visa application photo.
Confirmed Flights
RequiredInbound and onward flight tickets
Must show transit within visa validity
Hotel Booking
RequiredAccommodation for transit period
Application Steps
Confirm Flights
Ensure layover fits within 48 or 96 hours
Apply Through Airline
Apply via Emirates, Etihad, or authorized agent
Submit Documents
Passport, photo, flight tickets, hotel booking
Pay Fee
Instructions on the acceptable payment methods for settling your mandatory transit visa application fee.
Receive Visa
Information explaining that your approved electronic visa will be delivered directly to your registered email address.
Visa Fees
| Type | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 48-Hour Transit Visa | AED 100-150 | - |
| 96-Hour Transit Visa | AED 150-200 | - |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a transit visa if I stay in the airport?
Can I get transit visa at Dubai airport?
How long is 96-hour transit visa valid?
Generate Your Documents
Create all required documents for your Transit Visa application
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Important
Requirements may change. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate website before applying.
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Official Sources
This information is based on the following official sources. Always verify with these sources before submitting applications.
The definitive source for transit visa eligibility, application steps, and required evidence.
Instructions for applying for a UAE visa through Emirates Airlines when booking a flight with them.
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