Dubai Visa Eligibility Checker
Answer a few questions to find out which UAE visa options are available to you.
What's your primary purpose for coming to Dubai?
Select the option that best describes your situation.
Understanding UAE Visas
The UAE has several different visa types depending on your purpose, nationality, and situation. Most employees are sponsored by their employer on an employment (residency) visa. Freelancers can get a freelance permit through a free zone. Retirees, high-net-worth individuals, and certain professionals may qualify for the UAE Golden Visa — a long-term residency of 5 or 10 years with no sponsorship required.
Nationalities from certain countries (EU, UK, US, Canada, Australia, and many others) receive a free visa-on-arrival for tourism or short visits. Use the checker above to find out which options apply to your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to visit Dubai?
It depends on your passport. Citizens of over 50 countries — including the US, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia — receive a free visa-on-arrival (30 days, extendable once). Citizens of many other countries need to apply for a tourist visa in advance. Check with the GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) or your airline for the latest list.
What is the UAE Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa is a long-term UAE residency visa valid for 5 or 10 years, renewable, and not tied to an employer sponsor. It is available to investors, property owners (AED 2M+ property), entrepreneurs, outstanding students, scientists, artists, and skilled professionals in certain fields. Holders can sponsor their family members and can stay outside the UAE for longer periods without losing residency status.
How long can I stay in Dubai on a tourist visa?
Visa-on-arrival nationalities get 30 days, extendable once for another 30 days at a cost of AED 250. Tourist visa holders who applied in advance get 30 or 60 days depending on the visa type. Overstaying your visa results in a daily fine of AED 200 plus fees, so always track your entry and exit dates carefully.
Can I work in Dubai on a tourist visa?
No. Working in the UAE requires a valid work permit and residency visa, typically sponsored by your employer. Freelancers need a freelance permit from a UAE free zone. Working on a tourist or visit visa is illegal and can result in fines, deportation, and a ban on re-entry.
What is a free zone visa and how is it different?
Free zones are designated economic areas in the UAE (Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City, DMCC, etc.) where foreign ownership is permitted. Companies registered in free zones can sponsor employee visas. A free zone visa works similarly to a mainland employment visa for residency purposes, but free zone companies have restrictions on doing direct business with mainland UAE entities.
How do I sponsor my family on a UAE residency visa?
If you have a UAE residency visa, you can sponsor your spouse, children (under 18 for sons, daughters until they marry), and in some cases parents. Requirements: minimum monthly salary of AED 4,000 (or AED 3,000 + accommodation). You will need your tenancy contract, passport copies, marriage/birth certificates, and Emirates ID. The process is done through GDRFA or the ICP app.