Considering making a layover in Dubai and considering going outside and sightseeing the city? Applying for an online transit visa for Dubai is the easiest way to make the most of your short stop. Regardless of your 48-hour or 96-hour layover, the transit visa gives you an opportunity to explore the skyline, shopping, and culture of Dubai, without having to stay there long-term.
In this guide, we are going to take you through the documents that you need to apply a Dubai transit visa online in 2025 so that you are well prepared and can apply without any hassle.
Who Needs a Dubai Transit Visa?
Passengers transiting through Dubai International Airport and who wish to leave the airport during a stopover have to have a transit visa- unless they are a citizen of a visa-exempt country. The visa is perfect to passengers who have a confirmed onward flight in 48 to 96 hours.
Dubai transit visas are of two kinds:
Free visa (48 hours)
96 hours visa (small processing fee)
They are both single-entry visas that you need to apply in advance.
Documents Required for Dubai Transit Visa (2025)
In order to apply online successfully to a Dubai transit visa, you will be required to have the following documents ready:
1. Passport Copy
Your passport must have at least six months until the date of travel. The bio page must be scanned in a clear color.
2. Passport-Sized Photograph
You will require a current color picture on a white background. Make sure that your photo is within the UAE visa requirements in size and clarity.
3. Confirmed Onward Ticket
This requires a copy of your confirmed flight ticket that will indicate your arrival and departure in and out of Dubai within 48 or 96 hours.
4. Finger Print & Visa for Final Destination (if any)
In case of your final destination being a place that needs a visa (e.g. Schengen, UK, USA) you might be requested to provide a copy of that visa.
5. Hotel Booking Or Local Address
You are supposed to give a hotel booking or a host address in Dubai. Other agencies can help in offering booking support.
Optional Documents (May Vary Based on Nationality)
Travel insurance that includes UAE in the course of your stay
GCC residence card (in case you are a GCC resident)
Old UAE visa copies (where there are any)
How to Apply
The online application procedure of a Dubai transit visa is easy and quick. You may apply by:
Your air company (Emirates, Flydubai, etc.)
An authorised travel agency in the UAE
Approved visa service websites
The majority of visas can be obtained within 2 to 4 working days, thus apply early to avoid disappointments.
Final Thoughts
A transit visa to Dubai is a clever idea to spend a layover and have a mini vacation. Some documents and a web-based application and you may be seeing and hearing the sights and sounds of one of the most dynamic cities in the world, even though it is only a day or two.
In case you do not know where to begin, the Go Kite Travel is a reliable travel company that is located in Dubai and can assist you in the whole process. We take care of your Dubai transit visa apply online, as well as arrange fast city tours during your stopover in the city, so that your short visit is easy, fun and stress-free.
