UAE Visa, Entry & Residence Scheme (2026): Dubai Visit Visas, Green Visa, Golden Visa & 5-Year Multiple-Entry Explained

The United Arab Emirates has modernized its Visa, Entry & Residence Scheme to attract global talent and make travel to Dubai smoother for tourists, business visitors, and families. In 2026, travelers can choose from flexible visit visas, professionals can apply for Green Visas (work and reside without a traditional employer sponsor), and high-achievers/investors can secure long-term residency via the Golden Visa. This guide explains the options clearly—and shows you how to apply online with confidence.

What Changed in the UAE Visa, Entry & Residence Scheme?

The scheme streamlines application routes, expands visa categories, and introduces more benefits and flexibility for visitors and residents.

Key Benefits for Visitors & Residents

• Simplified categories with clearer eligibility.

• Sponsor-free tracks (e.g., Green Visa), reducing dependency on employer sponsorship.

• Multi-entry allowances and longer allowed stays on certain visit visas.

• Family-friendly rules, including broader sponsorship options for dependents on eligible residence visas.

Dubai Visit Visa Options in 2026

Dubai remains one of the world’s most visited cities. Depending on your plans, choose one of the following:

30-Day & 60-Day Single-Entry Tourist Visas

Best for short holidays and quick family visits. These are single-entry visas with a defined stay limit printed on approval.

90-Day Long-Stay Visit Visa

Ideal for extended trips, longer family stays, or seasonal visits when you don’t want to rush.

5-Year Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa

Designed for frequent travelers, this visa enables multiple entries within its long validity. Each entry permits a defined continuous stay period (often up to 90 days per entry, extendable within annual caps as per prevailing rules). It removes the need to re-apply before each trip—great for those who visit the UAE regularly.

Tip: If you expect to enter and exit the UAE several times in a year, the 5-year multiple-entry option saves time and reduces repeat paperwork.

Green Visa (Work & Residence Without Employer Sponsorship)

The Green Visa is a sponsor-free residence pathway aimed at qualified talent. Instead of relying on an employer to sponsor your status, eligible applicants can self-sponsor based on professional credentials.

Who Can Qualify for the Green Visa?

Typical eligible profiles include:

• Skilled professionals meeting UAE salary/qualification criteria.

• Freelancers and self-employed professionals meeting income/qualification thresholds.

• Selected investors/partners under defined conditions.

(Exact thresholds and criteria are set by UAE authorities and may change—apply against the latest published requirements.)

Core Benefits of the Green Visa

• No employer sponsorship required.

• Longer residence validity than a standard work permit route.

• Family sponsorship options for spouse, children (subject to age limits), and dependents as per current rules.

Golden Visa (Long-Term Residence)

The Golden Visa offers long-term residence (commonly up to 10 years) for high-achieving and high-impact categories.

Eligible Categories for Golden Visa

• Investors meeting official investment criteria.

• Entrepreneurs with qualifying businesses.

• Exceptional talent (e.g., scientists, researchers, creatives) endorsed under UAE frameworks.

• Highly skilled professionals, outstanding students/graduates, and other approved categories.

Key Advantages for Families & Dependents

• Longer residency with broader family sponsorship options.

• Greater travel flexibility (spending time abroad does not typically invalidate, per current rules).

• Support staff allowances may be more flexible than standard residence routes.

Note: Golden Visa eligibility is evidence-driven. Documentation such as investment proofs, licenses, MOAs, awards/endorsements, salary slips, and academic records is typically required as applicable to the chosen pathway.

Dubai Visit Visa: Eligibility, Requirements & Documents (2026)

Most nationalities not visa-exempt or visa-on-arrival must apply in advance. Requirements can vary by nationality and visa type, but the following is a robust baseline.

Standard Document Checklist

• Passport valid 6+ months from intended entry; at least 2 blank pages; undamaged.

• Recent passport photo (35mm × 45mm, white background, full face visible).

• Travel plan: return/onward ticket and basic itinerary.

• Accommodation proof: hotel booking or UAE host’s invitation with address and ID (as applicable).

• Travel insurance covering the UAE for your full stay.

• Proof of funds (recent bank statement or other financial evidence).

Optional Evidence That Strengthens an Application

• Employer letter/leave approval (for employed applicants).

• Business documents (for entrepreneurs/meetings).

• Relationship proof (when visiting close family).

• Prior travel history (visas/stamps) if available.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply Online with DubaiVisitVisa.online

1. Choose your visa type
   Select 30, 60, 90 days or 5-year multiple-entry based on your purpose and travel pattern.

2. Fill the application carefully
   Enter your personal details exactly as in your passport. Match dates across tickets, hotel, and form.

3. Upload documents
   Submit clear, glare-free scans of passport bio page, compliant photo, tickets, accommodation, and financial/optional proofs.

4. Pay securely
   Complete payment via card through our secure checkout. You’ll get a reference ID to track your file online.

Application Timeline & Processing Tips

• Standard processing typically completes within a few working days; express options may be available.

• Apply 2–4 weeks before travel (earlier in peak seasons).

• Ensure every document is legible and consistent with your itinerary.

Validity, Extensions & Status Changes

• Validity & allowed stay depend on visa type and will be printed on your approval.

• Extensions may be possible on certain visit visas (commonly in 30-day blocks) subject to prevailing rules and fees.

• Status changes (e.g., visit-to-residence) can sometimes be processed without exiting the UAE, if you meet the criteria and pay applicable charges through approved channels.

• Overstays can incur daily fines and may affect future travel—always extend or exit on time.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Rejection

• Typos/mismatches in name, passport number, or dates.

• Poor-quality scans (blurry, cropped, glare).

• Missing return ticket/accommodation proof.

• Insufficient funds or unclear source of funds.

• Inconsistent story (form, tickets, and hotel do not align).

• Damaged/expiring passport (under 6 months validity).

Fix: Double-check all fields, keep documents consistent, and upload clear, compliant files. Our team pre-reviews submissions and flags issues before filing.

Risks of Unofficial Agents—Why Apply with Professionals

• Unverified agents may use insecure payments or submit incomplete files, causing delays or refusals.

• Incorrect visa type or inaccurate data can lead to entry denial on arrival.

• Misguided “work on tourist visa” claims risk legal penalties.

With Dubai Visit Visa you get:

• Expert file preparation & document checks.

• Secure payment and clear timelines.

• End-to-end assistance (application, tracking, extension guidance).

• Friendly support 24/7 via chat/email/phone.

Ready to Travel? Apply for Your Dubai Visa Online

Plan with certainty and apply the smart way. Our specialists check your documents, fix weak spots, and file a strong application on your behalf.

👉 Apply for your Dubai visit visa now on Dubai Visit Visa online – fast, secure & fully online.
👉 Need frequent trips? Ask about the 5-Year Multiple-Entry option.
👉 Exploring jobs or long-term residence? Get guidance on Green & Golden pathways.