Planning a short layover in Dubai in 2026, but don’t want to spend much on visa fees? Dubai’s Transit Visa lets you enjoy a 48–96 hour stopover, explore the city, and make the most of your journey—all without committing to a long-term visa.

What is a Dubai Transit Visa?

A Dubai Transit Visa is a short-term entry permit for travellers transiting through the UAE. It allows a stay of 48 or 96 hours, during which you may leave the airport and explore the city.

This visa is issued as an e-visa and must be obtained in advance through a UAE-based airline. To apply, you must have a valid passport, a confirmed onward flight ticket, and proof of accommodation for your transit stay.

Who is Eligible for a Transit Visa in Dubai?

Not every traveller is eligible for a Transit visa in Dubai. Only the following travellers can take its benefits:

• Travellers who are not eligible for Visa on Arrival or Visa Free Entry
• A person who has a valid passport
• A traveller who holds an onward flight ticket to a destination other than its origin.

Different Types of Transit Visa in Dubai

UAE offers two types of Transit visa, including 48 hours and 96 hours. Eligible travellers need to get approved for these visas from UAE-based airlines prior to entering the UAE. Let us understand the conditions for each transit visa type.

48 Hours Transit Visa

Meet the requirements below to get  48-hour transit visa:

• A passport /travel document with a validity of at least three months
• Personal photograph with white background.
• Onward flight ticket to 3rd destination other than your origin.

96 Hours Transit Visa

Meet the requirements below to get 96 hours transit visa:

• A passport /travel document with a validity of at least six months
• Personal photograph with white background.
• Onward flight ticket to 3rd destination other than your origin.

Note: Once you choose a 48-hour transit visa, you can not extend it to 96 hours later.

Apart from transit visas, Dubai also offers various visa types for tourists, business travellers, and multiple-entry visitors.

How to Get a Transit Visa for Dubai?

You can get a transit visa before journey only through a UAE based airline with which you are travelling. If you have booked a trip through a travel agency, then agency will help you get the visa. Still, all the visas are directed through airline.

Airline agents will get Transit visa online through the following means:

• The eChannels portal
• The UAEICP app for Apple and Android
• Through General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in each emirate.

How Much Does it Cost to Get a Dubai Transit Visa?

The charges for Dubai transit visa depend on whether you apply for 48 hours or 96 hours. UAE offers a 48-hour transit visa for free. Whereas a 96-hour transit visa costs AED 50 plus airlines fee.

Can I Add Children and Minors to Transit Visa for Dubai?

Yes. You can add children and minors to Transit Visa for Dubai. But, before that, you have to meet the following conditions:

• Birth certificate for minor and children in English or Arabic.
• Translated document should be attested on the first page.

Additionally, for Minors (including married females) below 18 years in age:

• Parents’ or husband’s photo ID is needed along with a photocopy of parents’ tourist visa sponsored by a specific airline.
• UAE-based airline does not allow unaccompanied minors and students.
• A machine-readable travel document or passport is acceptable.

To Whom Airlines Consider as Dependent for Dubai Transit Visa?

Transit visa in Dubai considers following into dependents category:

• Spouse
• Children under 18 years of age
• Parents above 60 years of age

Tip: Submit necessary documents like marriage or birth certificate to prove the relationship status and age.

Conclusion

Dubai Transit Visa for 2026 is an outstanding option for travellers who want to enjoy their stopover in UAE. No matter if you choose 48-hour free visa or 96-hour visa for a fee, both offer an ideal way to visit Dubai stunning attractions without any long term visa commitments.

You have to apply in advance from an UAE-based airline. Before that, meet requirements related to passport validity and onward flight ticket requirements. With mindful planning, you can turn your short transit into an unforgettable Dubai experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to pay for a transit visa in Dubai?
You have to pay only if you apply for a 96-hour Dubai transit visa. 48-hour transit visa is free in Dubai.

Which airline offers Dubai transit visa?
Emirates offers a Dubai transit visa with validity of 48 hours and 96 hours.

Where can you apply for a transit visa on Emirates?
You can apply for a transit visa by visiting Emirates website or by visiting Emirates Commercial Visa APT office at Dubai International Airport Terminal 3.

Can I leave the airport if I have a transit visa?
Yes. You can leave the airport by providing confirmed hotel booking details, Emirates ID card and UAE Residence visa copy of relatives you will be staying with in UAE.

How long does it take to process a Dubai transit visa?
It can take around 5 working days to process a transit visa for Dubai.