Dubai Transit Visa 2026 – 48-Hour & 96-Hour Visa: Eligibility, Fees, Documents & How to Apply (Complete Guide)

A Dubai transit visa is a short-term entry permit that allows international travelers passing through Dubai International Airport to exit the airport and explore the city before continuing their journey to a third country.

In 2026, Dubai offers two types of transit visas:

• A 48-hour visa (short layovers)

• A 96-hour visa (extended stopovers)

Both are single-entry visas, intended only for travelers transiting onward through Dubai.

Types of Dubai Transit Visas (48 Hours vs 96 Hours)

Dubai 48-Hour Transit Visa

• Valid for 48 hours from entry.

• Generally free of charge (small handling fee may apply).

• Best for short layovers or overnight stays.

• Non-extendable and non-convertible.

Dubai 96-Hour Transit Visa

• Valid for 96 hours from entry.

• Fee applies (approx. AED 200+ depending on service charges).

• Ideal for travelers who want to spend 2–4 days in Dubai.

• Also non-extendable and non-convertible.

Do You Need a Transit Visa for Dubai?

You need a transit visa if:

• You want to leave the airport during your layover.

• Your nationality is not eligible for visa-free entry or visa on arrival.

• Your connection requires you to pass through immigration.

You don’t need a transit visa if you are:

• Staying airside in the airport and not passing through immigration.

• A passport holder of a country that qualifies for visa on arrival.

Dubai Transit Visa Eligibility 2026

To be eligible, you must have:

• A valid passport (minimum 6 months).

• A confirmed onward flight ticket to a third country.

• Proof of sufficient funds for your stay.

• Hotel booking or accommodation details (especially for 96-hour visa).

• A clear immigration history with no past violations in the UAE.

Required Documents for Dubai Transit Visa Application

• A completed visa application form.

• Passport copy (minimum 6 months validity).

• Passport-sized photo (white background).

• Confirmed onward flight ticket.

• Hotel booking or UAE accommodation details.

• Travel insurance (recommended).

Dubai Transit Visa Fees & Validity in 2026

• 48-Hour Visa: Free government fee, but service charges may apply. Valid for 48 hours only.

• 96-Hour Visa: Approx. AED 200–250 (varies by processing channel). Valid for 96 hours only.

• Both visas are single entry and must be used within the validity period stated on approval.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Dubai Transit Visa Online

Application Form Submission

1. Fill out the online application form.

2. Upload scanned documents (passport, photo, onward ticket, hotel booking).

3. Pay applicable fees (for 96h visa).

4. Receive your e-visa approval by email (usually within 2–4 business days).

Processing Time & Tips for Faster Approval

• Apply at least 7–10 days before travel.

• Ensure your name and passport details exactly match your flight ticket.

• Use clear, high-resolution scans for faster approval.

Common Reasons for Rejection and How to Avoid Them

• Incorrect or mismatched details → Double-check your form.

• Passport validity less than 6 months → Renew before applying.

• No confirmed onward ticket → Attach a valid booking.

• Applying for transit instead of tourist visa → If your stay exceeds 96 hours, apply for a tourist visa instead.

Can You Extend or Convert a Dubai Transit Visa?

No. Both the 48-hour and 96-hour transit visas are non-extendable and non-convertible. If you need more time, you must apply for a Dubai tourist visa instead.

Things to Do During a Short Dubai Stopover (48h/96h Ideas)

If you have a short stopover:

• Visit the Burj Khalifa & Dubai Mall.

• Explore Dubai Marina & Palm Jumeirah.

• Take a desert safari if you have 96 hours.

• Enjoy Old Dubai: Al Fahidi, Gold Souk & Dubai Creek.

Why Apply Through Our Professional Visa Service

Many travelers face rejections because of:

• Incorrect visa type (transit vs tourist).

• Mistakes in forms or missing documents.

• Delays caused by unverified agents.

Applying through Dubai Visit Visa online ensures:

• Error-free application review.

• Fast approvals within 2–4 business days.

• Transparent pricing & 24/7 support.

👉 Apply now for your Dubai 48h or 96h Transit Visa through our platform and enjoy a smooth, stress-free stopover!

Conclusion – Make the Most of Your Dubai Transit Visa in 2026

The Dubai transit visa 2026 is perfect for travelers with a short stopover who want to experience Dubai without applying for a full tourist visa. Whether you choose a 48-hour free visa or a 96-hour paid option, the process is simple, quick, and efficient.

✨ Turn your layover into a mini-vacation! Apply for your Dubai transit visa today with Dubai Visit Visa online.