Dubai Visa for Minors (2026): Requirements, Documents, Consent Rules, Fees, Processing & Travel Tips

Planning a Dubai trip with children in 2026? The UAE is family-friendly, but visas and consent rules for minors (under 18) must be handled carefully. This guide explains visa types, documents, parental consent, airline policies for unaccompanied minors, processing time, fees, and how to apply online—so your family travels stress-free.

Why This 2026 Guide Matters

• Accuracy: Clears up common misconceptions (e.g., Dubai is a city/emirate in the UAE, not a country).

• Safety: Highlights consent and guardian requirements for minors.

• Speed: Gives you a checklist + step-by-step so you submit right the first time.

Visa Options for Minors in the UAE (Tourist/Visit, Student, Residency)

Tourist/Visit Visa for Minors (30/60/90 days)

Best for holidays, family visits or short stays. Depending on nationality, children may require an eVisa in advance or get visa-on-arrival if eligible. Minors usually apply with an adult’s application or separately with proper parental consent.

Student Visa for Minors (School Admission)

For children enrolled in a registered UAE school. Requires admission letter, sponsor (school/parent), and standard visa formalities. Validity typically aligns with school enrollment and must be renewed as per rules.

Residency (Family/Child) Sponsorship by Parent/Guardian

A resident parent in the UAE can sponsor their child’s residency if income, housing, and relationship criteria are met. Requirements and income thresholds are set by ICP/GDRFA and may change—expect to show minimum monthly salary, tenancy/ejari, and medical insurance.

Note: Rules differ for divorced/separated parents and legal guardianship. Always include legal custody/guardian papers if applicable.

Eligibility & Consent Rules for Children Under 18

If Travelling with Both Parents

• Child’s passport (valid ≥ 6 months), photo, and visa as applicable.

• Birth certificate to prove relationship (and translation if not in English/Arabic).

If Travelling with One Parent/Guardian

• Notarized parental consent letter from the non-traveling parent.

• Passport copies of both parents.

• Birth certificate (or court orders if custody/guardian applies).

• Contact details for the non-accompanying parent.

Unaccompanied Minors: Airline Policies You Must Follow

• Most airlines offer Unaccompanied Minor (UM) services for ages typically 5–11 (mandatory) and 12–15 (optional).

• Requires UM booking, specific forms, fees, and confirmed pick-up person in Dubai with valid ID.

• Some carriers do not accept UMs on connecting itineraries—check before booking.

Documents Required for a Minor’s Dubai Visa (2026 Checklist)

Identity & Relationship Proof

• Child’s passport (≥ 6 months validity) + recent photo (white background).

• Birth certificate (attested/translated if needed) to establish parent-child relationship.

Parental Consents & Authorizations

• Consent letter (when one parent/guardian is not travelling):

  • Child’s full name, DOB, passport number

  • Travel dates, flight details, accommodation

  • Full details of the accompanying adult

  • Non-traveling parent’s signature + notarization/attestation

• Passport copies of both parents, marriage/divorce/custody papers (if applicable).

Extra Documents When a Parent is UAE Resident

• Sponsor’s passport, UAE residence visa, Emirates ID

• Salary/income proof as per current criteria

• Tenancy/Ejari (or accommodation letter per rules)

• Medical insurance for the child

• Recent bank statements if requested

Fees & Processing Time in 2026 (What to Expect)

• Tourist/Visit eVisa: commonly processed in 24–72 working hours after complete submission.

• Residency (child sponsorship): longer timelines due to entry permit, medical (if required by age/visa type), biometrics/Emirates ID, and stamping.

• Fees vary by visa type/duration, nationality, and service channel (government fees + service/VAT). Get a clear fee breakup before filing.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply Online

1. Choose visa type & duration (tourist/visit 30/60/90 days, or residency/student where applicable).

2. Gather documents (see checklist) and ensure scans are clear and consistent.

3. Complete application with accurate data (as per passport).

4. Upload documents (PDF/JPG per size rules).

5. Pay fees (government + service).

6. Track status; respond promptly to any clarifications.

7. Receive eVisa by email; carry print/digital copy for travel.

Prefer done-for-you? Our team reviews paperwork, formats consent letters, and files applications to cut errors and delays.

Duration, Extension & Renewal Options

• Tourist/Visit visas are typically 30/60/90 days. Extensions may be possible (fees apply) if rules in force allow.

• Residency for children is tied to the sponsor parent’s residency and must be renewed before expiry.

• Always plan at least 7–10 days before expiry to avoid fines or overstay complications.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Rejection

• Missing consent from the non-traveling parent → attach notarized letter + ID.

• Unclear scans / name mismatches → use high-resolution scans; match spellings exactly.

• Outdated custody docs → include latest court/custody orders where relevant.

• Wrong visa type (tourist vs student vs residency) → choose correctly; ask us if unsure.

• Insurance gaps → ensure the child has valid travel/medical cover for the full stay.

Flying Tips for Children & Infants (Baggage, Seats, Meals)

• Infants (under 2): confirm bassinets/infant seats and baggage allowances (airline-specific).

• Meals: pre-order child/infant meals where available.

• Seating: aim for bulkhead (bassinet) or adjacent seats for families.

• Liquids: baby milk/food may be permitted in reasonable quantities—declare at security.

• Arrival: keep consent letters and contact numbers handy for immigration queries.

Risks of DIY/Unvetted Agents & How Our Service De-Risks Your Trip

• Incorrect or missing consents can cause denials or airport delays.

• Poor document formatting triggers verification and slows approvals.

• Rule changes happen—our case managers track current ICP/GDRFA practices and apply the correct codes/forms.

• We provide review, filing, status tracking, and priority support so your family trip stays on schedule.

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