The United Arab Emirates provides multiple tourist visa options for international visitors. While short-term 30-day and 60-day visit visas are usually processed through licensed tour operators or airlines, the federal government also offers a prestigious 5-Year Multiple Entry Tourist Visa.
This 5-year visa enables visitors of all nationalities to self-sponsor their travel, staying up to 90 consecutive days per year, with the possibility of extending their stay up to 180 total days in a single calendar year.
Eligibility
- Passport with a minimum of 6 months validity from date of entry.
- For the 5-year multi-entry visa: Proof of a bank balance of at least $4,000 USD (or equivalent foreign currency) across the preceding 6 consecutive months.
- Valid international travel health insurance covering the UAE.
- Confirmed flight booking and address of accommodation in the UAE.
Required Documents
- Clear, high-resolution color scan of the passport information page
- Recent passport-sized photo with white background (meeting ICP biometric specifications)
- Certified 6-month bank statement stamped by bank (for 5-year visa applicants)
- Travel health insurance certificate valid for the UAE
- Copy of onward or return flight itinerary
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Choose the Correct Official Portal: For Dubai, apply via the GDRFA Dubai platform (gdrfad.gov.ae). For Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other emirates, apply through ICP Smart Services (smartservices.icp.gov.ae).
- Fill Application & Attach Documents: Complete personal details, passport particulars, and upload passport photo and bank statement scans.
- Pay Official Government & Issuance Fees: Pay the application and issuance fees securely using a credit card online.
- Download E-Visa PDF: Once reviewed and approved, download the electronic entry permit containing your unified number (UID) and QR verification code.
Fees
Standard fee: Varies by duration (approx. 350-650 AED for short-term; approx. 650-750 AED for 5-year application & issuance fees). Subject to ICP service charges, security deposit conditions, and innovation fees.
Processing Time
Estimated: 24 to 72 hours for standard e-visas; 3-5 working days for 5-year permits. ICP official processing benchmarks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Low Quality Passport Scans: Blurry scans or reflections on the laminate page frequently trigger automated document rejection on ICP.
- Incomplete 6-Month Bank Statement: Submitting a bank statement that does not cover the full 180-day window or drops below the required $4,000 threshold.
- Ignoring Airline Boarding Requirements: Arriving at Pakistani departure airports without confirmed return tickets or physical hotel proof, leading to airline offloading.
Practical Tips
- Always verify your visa file number on the official ICP or GDRFA portal before travelling to ensure it is marked “Issued”.
- Carry at least 3,000 to 5,000 AED or international card equivalent as recommended by airport immigration guidelines.
Official Government Links
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I extend my UAE tourist visa inside the country?
Yes, most UAE tourist visas can be extended inside the country for an additional 30 days via the ICP or GDRFA portal without needing an airport run, upon payment of the renewal fee.
Official source: ICP Smart Services / GDRFA Dubai. VisaGlobe is an independent informational guide. Visa policies and entry regulations are managed exclusively by ICP and GDRFA.
