The United Arab Emirates has one of the busiest airports in the world. Passengers require to transit through the Abu Dhabi or Dubai International Airport. Among many Dubai visa types, is the Dubai transit visa. For this, a traveller requires a Dubai Transit visa, AbuDhabi Transit Visa or UAE Transit visa. Different nationalities have different criteria while applying for a Dubai Transit visa. Transit visa can be applied through the UAE-based airlines, Emirates as well. The airlines will always assist you in Emirates Transit visa. The other airline visa which you can gain is the Etihad Transit visa. All Transit visas must be processed before entering the UAE border.

The United Arab Emirates issues two types of Transit Visa UAE:

  • Transit Visa Dubai for 48 hours - This visa is for 48 hours and is not extendable, nor renewable.
  • Transit Visa for 96 hours - This visa is chargable and is not extendable.

Let’s understand better.

UAE Transit visa

Does every passenger need a transit visa?

You will have check with your country embassy website whether you qualify for Dubai visa on arrival or visa-free access. If you do not qualify, you will need a UAE transit visa.

Can I apply for a transit visa?

The UAE based airlines will apply for your transit visa. If you are not travelling through these airlines, then your travel agency will arrange your transit visa by communicating with these airlines.

What is the duration of a transit visa?

The duration is either 48 hours or 96 hours. You will have to make a note that a 48 hours UAE transit visa can not be extended once the duration is over.

Dubai transit visa

Insights for 48-hour Transit Visa

This type of transit visa is for passengers passing through the UAE airports. You will have to apply and acquire a Dubai transit visa before you travel to the UAE. You can apply through UAE-based airlines or online Dubai visa services. This visa is not extendable or renewable. This visa stands valid for up to 48 hours. So make sure you exit the UAE within 48 hours.

48 hours UAE Transit Visa

The following are required to get a 48-hour Dubai transit visa:

  • A passport or travel document with a minimum validity of three months
  • A photo of self against a white background
  • An onward ticket booking to a third destination, other than the one you are coming from.

Insights for 96-hour Transit Visa

This type of Dubai transit visa is chargeable to the passengers travelling through the Dubai or Abu Dhabi International Airports. This visa is initiated by the UAE airlines. And comes with a validity of 96 hours only. The 96-hour UAE Transit visa is not extendable or transferable. You are required to exit the UAE within 96 hours.

96 hours Dubai/UAE Transit Visa

The following are required to get a 96-hour Dubai transit visa:

  • A passport or travel document with a minimum validity of six months
  • A photo of self against a white background
  • An onward ticket booking to a third destination, other than the one you are coming from.

We hope the above has helped you to understand transit visa in case you are transiting the UAE.

Travel safe.