Dubai Transit Visa 2026: 48 & 96 Hours, Requirements, Fees, Processing & How to Apply Online

Flying through Dubai on your way to another destination? If your layover in Dubai is more than a few hours and you want to leave the airport to explore the city, you may need a Dubai Transit Visa. The UAE offers 48-hour and 96-hour transit visas that allow travelers to step out of the airport, explore the city, and make the most of their stopover.

This guide explains everything about the Dubai transit visa in 2026—types, requirements, sponsors, processing times, fees, and the application process.

What Is a Dubai Transit Visa & Who Needs It in 2026?

A Dubai transit visa is a short-term visa for travelers who stop in Dubai (or any UAE emirate) before continuing to their next destination.

• If you remain inside the airport during your layover, you don’t need one.

• If you want to exit the airport, you’ll need a transit visa (unless your nationality is eligible for visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival).

Do You Need a Transit Visa for Dubai?

• Nationals of some countries do not require a transit visa to enter the UAE.

• Certain nationalities are eligible for visa-on-arrival (30–90 days).

• All other travelers require a pre-approved transit visa, which can only be arranged by a UAE-based airline.

📌 Always check your nationality eligibility before traveling to avoid last-minute issues.

Dubai Transit Visa Types (48-Hour & 96-Hour Explained)

Dubai 48-Hour Transit Visa

• Valid for 30 days from issuance.

• Permits a stay of up to 48 hours.

• Cannot be extended.

• Processing time: usually 24–48 hours.

• Ideal for short layovers or quick business stopovers.

Dubai 96-Hour Transit Visa

• Valid for 30 days from issuance.

• Permits a stay of up to 96 hours (4 days).

• Cannot be extended.

• Processing time: 2–3 working days.

• Perfect for travelers who want to explore Dubai before flying out.

Dubai Transit Visa Requirements (Updated 2026)

Mandatory Documents

• Valid passport (minimum 3 months validity).

• Passport-size photo (UAE guidelines).

• Confirmed onward flight ticket to a third country.

• Transit visa application form (completed online).

Additional Supporting Proofs

• Hotel booking in Dubai (sometimes requested).

• Travel insurance (recommended).

• Additional documents depending on nationality (e.g., residence permit of destination country).

Who Can Sponsor a Dubai Transit Visa?

Transit visas can only be issued by UAE-based airlines such as Emirates, FlyDubai, Etihad, or Air Arabia.

• Travel agencies and embassies cannot issue a UAE transit visa directly.

• If your flight transits Dubai, contact your airline to apply.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for Dubai Transit Visa Online

1. Book your flight with a UAE-based airline.

2. Request a transit visa application through your airline.

3. Submit required documents (passport, photo, onward ticket, hotel booking if needed).

4. Pay the applicable fee securely.

5. Receive your approved e-visa via email.

6. Print and carry it when traveling.

Processing Time & Validity of Dubai Transit Visa

• 48-hour visa: Processes in ~24–48 hours.

• 96-hour visa: Processes in ~2–3 working days.

• Both visas are valid for 30 days from the date of issue (you must enter within this window).

Dubai Transit Visa Fees in 2026

• 48-Hour Transit Visa: Approx. USD $20–40 (varies by airline).

• 96-Hour Transit Visa: Approx. USD $40–60 (varies by airline).

• Fees may include airline service charges. Always confirm at booking.

Where to Apply: Embassy vs. Online Application

• Embassies do not issue transit visas.

• Only UAE-based airlines and authorized partners can apply on your behalf.

• For convenience, you can also apply through trusted platforms like DubaiVisitVisa.online.

Common Reasons for Rejection & How to Avoid Them

• Passport validity less than 3 months.

• Mismatched travel details (different return ticket).

• Missing onward flight booking.

• Low-quality or non-compliant photo.

✅ Solution: Ensure your documents are clear, accurate, and consistent before applying.

Conclusion: Apply Your Dubai Transit Visa Online Hassle-Free

The Dubai transit visa (48 or 96 hours) is the perfect option for travelers with long layovers who want to step out and experience Dubai. With the right documents, airline sponsorship, and a quick online application, the process is simple and fast.

🚀 Apply now through Dubai Visit Visa online for a secure, hassle-free transit visa application in 2026 and explore Dubai even on a short stopover!