Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Why a 90-Day Visit Visa Matters
- Who Is Eligible for a 90-Day Visit Visa?
- Types of 90-Day Visit Visas and When to Use Each
- Documents You’ll Need (Checklist)
- How Much It Costs: Fees, Deposits and Hidden Charges
- Step-By-Step: Applying Through the ICP App (Residents Sponsoring Friends/Relatives)
- Step-By-Step: Applying via Airline (Emirates/Etihad—Manage Your Booking)
- Step-By-Step: Arriving With a 90-Day Visa On Arrival
- Extensions and Overstays: What You Need to Know
- Common Application Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
- Practical Timeline: How to Plan Your Application (Blueprint)
- How the 5-Year Multiple-Entry Visa Differs (Who Should Consider It)
- Entry Procedures at Dubai Airports: What to Expect
- Linking Visa Strategy to Travel in Saudi Arabia and the Region
- Practical Itinerary Ideas for a 90-Day Dubai-Based Stay
- Money, Insurance and Banking Practicalities
- What If Your Visa Is Refused?
- Practical Tips for Smooth Arrival and Stay
- When to Contact Official Channels
- Decision Framework: Choosing the Best Route for You
- How Saudi Travel & Leisure Helps You Plan Cross-Border Gulf Trips
- Troubleshooting: Real Scenarios and Solutions (Advisory Framework)
- Cultural and Practical Etiquette While You Stay
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Introduction
Dubai remains one of the most visited cities in the Gulf, and the rules around entry and visit visas are precise—understanding them saves time, money, and stress. Whether you plan a long holiday, an extended family visit, or a regional exploration with Dubai as your base, a 90-day visit visa is a practical option for many nationalities and sponsorship situations.
Short answer: A 90-day visit visa for Dubai can be obtained either on arrival (for eligible nationalities), via pre-arranged channels such as airlines and approved typing centres, or through the ICP/GDRFA system when a UAE resident sponsors a relative or friend. The exact process, fees, security deposit requirements, and documentation depend on whether you’re applying from abroad, arriving under visa-on-arrival rules, or being sponsored by a UAE resident; expect 2–7 business days for processing when applying in advance.
This post explains every route, the documents you need, the costs and deposits you should expect, step-by-step application procedures for each pathway, how to avoid common mistakes, extension and overstay rules, and practical travel-planning advice that ties visa planning to building a successful, leisurely Gulf itinerary. If you’re planning travel across the Gulf, our practical resources will help you coordinate visa timing with flights, accommodation and longer Saudi Arabia plans.
Why a 90-Day Visit Visa Matters
A 90-day visit visa changes the logistics of travel in simple but decisive ways. Instead of squeezing major experiences into a short stay, you can move at a relaxed pace, take multi-week stays in different emirates, handle administrative tasks without rushing, or use Dubai as a base for regional trips into neighboring emirates and Saudi Arabia. From a planning perspective, a properly secured 90-day visa removes uncertainty and empowers you to make longer-term bookings with confidence.
Beyond convenience, choosing the correct visa category protects you from fines and deportation risks associated with overstays or incorrect entry types. This article gives you a working blueprint that turns visa complexity into a clear checklist and a timeline you can follow.
Who Is Eligible for a 90-Day Visit Visa?
Visa-On-Arrival vs. Pre-Arranged Visas
The UAE operates several entry frameworks:
- Nationals of certain countries receive a visa on arrival. For many European, North American, and several other passports, immigration will stamp a 90-day multiple-entry visit visa valid for six months from issuance. If you hold one of those passports, you often do not need to apply in advance—your passport will be stamped at the airport.
- Nationals who do not enjoy visa-on-arrival privileges must get a pre-arranged visa. Pre-arranged visas can be processed by UAE-based airlines for their passengers, by hotels and licensed travel agencies, or through the official government portals (ICP or GDRFA-D depending on who sponsors the visa).
- UAE residents can sponsor first- and second-degree relatives and invite them via the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) system. That route commonly results in a 90-day single-entry visit visa for guests.
Special Cases and Conditional Eligibility
Some nationalities have conditional arrangements: for instance, Indian nationals with a valid US visa or green card have simplified entry paths and short-term visas on arrival in some scenarios. Similarly, GCC residents or holders of certain residence permits may need to apply in advance if their status has changed.
If you are a resident of another Gulf country or are transiting the region, be mindful that residency rules and visa sponsorship differ between emirates and between the federal ICP system and individual emirate portals (for example Dubai’s GDRFA). Planning in advance reduces surprises at arrival.
Types of 90-Day Visit Visas and When to Use Each
1) 90-Day Visa On Arrival (Multiple Entry)
For nationals eligible for a 90-day visa on arrival, this option is the most streamlined. The passport is stamped upon entry with a multiple-entry visa that’s typically valid for entry within six months and allows up to 90 days of cumulative stay.
When to use: When you hold a passport from an eligible country and want maximum flexibility with minimal paperwork in advance.
What to watch for: Passport validity (usually six months minimum), and whether your planned stay exceeds the allowed cumulative days. Immigration decisions at arrival are final—don’t assume automatic entry for unusual circumstances.
2) Prearranged Visit Visa via Airlines (Emirates, Etihad, FlyDubai, Air Arabia)
Airlines that are authorized to issue visas on behalf of UAE authorities can arrange single or multiple entry visit visas (including 90-day categories in some cases) for ticketed passengers. Emirates and Etihad offer online visa services through “Manage Your Booking” and associated systems that allow you to apply without physically submitting your passport.
When to use: If you’re flying with a carrier that offers visa services and you prefer one-stop online processing linked to your ticket.
What to watch for: Airline visa services often require that your itinerary in and out of Dubai is on the same PNR and with that airline (or a codeshare as specified). Processing times can vary—airlines generally recommend applying at least 4 business days before travel.
3) ICP-Sponsored Visit Visa (Residents Sponsoring Family or Friends)
UAE residents with valid residence visas may sponsor relatives through the ICP Smart Services portal or the UAEICP mobile app. The typical product is a “Visit Visa for Friend or Relative 90 Days (Single Entry) – Issue.” The sponsor pays a security deposit and fees; the sponsored visitor receives an e-visa upon approval.
When to use: If you have a family or friend who is a UAE resident and can sponsor you.
What to watch for: The sponsor must meet employment/job-level criteria (recent ICP updates require certain job levels), provide relationship proof (attested), and pay a refundable security deposit. Processing usually takes 2–5 business days.
4) Long-Term Multiple Entry Tourist Visas (5-Year Options)
The UAE also issues long-term multiple-entry tourist visas (e.g., five-year visas) that permit multiple entries with up to 90 days per visit. These are self-sponsored and subject to financial eligibility requirements, such as a bank balance threshold, valid medical insurance, proof of onward travel and proof of accommodation.
When to use: If you make frequent trips to the UAE and meet the financial and documentation requirements.
What to watch for: These visas demand stronger financial proofs (for example, a bank balance equivalent to USD 4,000 over the last six months), health insurance for the UAE, and a clean immigration record.
5) Tourism Visas via Licensed Agencies or Hotels
Hotels and licensed travel agencies can sponsor tourist visas for guests. This is often the simplest route for travellers booking package holidays or hotels that provide visa assistance.
When to use: When booking a hotel package or tour through an agency that handles visas for guests.
What to watch for: Confirm that the hotel or agency is licensed and that you receive the e-visa before departure. Also verify matching dates for hotel bookings and flight tickets.
Documents You’ll Need (Checklist)
Below is a focused checklist of the documents typically requested across the different application routes. Use this as the working checklist when you prepare an application through ICP, an airline, a hotel, or a visa-issuing agency.
- Color passport-size photograph according to UAE specifications
- Clear color copy of passport bio page (valid at least six months from travel)
- Copy of sponsor’s Emirates ID (for sponsored visas)
- Proof of relationship (birth certificate, marriage certificate) attested when required
- Confirmed return flight ticket
- Confirmed hotel reservation or tenancy contract if staying with a resident
- Proof of health insurance valid in the UAE (may be required depending on the route)
- Bank statements and financial documents if applying for long-term multiple-entry visa
- Additional documents per nationality requirements (national ID, residency proof, etc.)
Use the most current checklist from the service you’re using—ICP’s portal, your airline’s visa page, or the agency—because document lists can vary by applicant nationality and sponsor status.
How Much It Costs: Fees, Deposits and Hidden Charges
Costs vary widely by route:
- ICP-sponsored 90-day visit visa (example breakdown): Security deposit (refundable) AED 1,025; request fee AED 100; issue fee AED 300; e-service and platform fees (combined) around AED 150–200; total example: approximately AED 1,575. Exact fees depend on details entered in the application.
- Airline prearranged visas: Airline fees depend on visa type and whether the ticket is economy or business class and on whether the visa is expedited. Visit the airline’s visa page for prices.
- Long-term multiple-entry tourist visas (5 years): May require additional processing fees and financial documentation; the main condition is meeting the bank balance requirement (for example, the USD 4,000 equivalent minimum) and insurance.
- Hotel/agency-arranged visas: Agencies add service charges on top of official fees; always ask for a complete breakdown.
Hidden costs to watch for: photocopy charges at immigration screening counters (a small fee in local currency), fees for passport retrieval if documents must be couriered, and overstaying fines (typically AED 100 per day plus an out-pass fee). For overstays beyond 30 days, payment must be processed at GDRFA-D HQ, not at the airport.
Step-By-Step: Applying Through the ICP App (Residents Sponsoring Friends/Relatives)
Applying through the ICP route is one of the most reliable ways to secure a 90-day visit visa when a UAE resident acts as sponsor. Below is a concise, actionable sequence you can follow.
- Sponsor prepares relationship documents and Emirates ID. Documents that attest relationship (birth certificate, marriage certificate) must be attested if coming from outside the UAE.
- Sponsor logs into UAEICP via the UAE Pass on the ICP Smart Services website or the UAEICP mobile app.
- Within the dashboard, sponsor searches for the service name—e.g., “Visit Visa for Friend or Relative 90 Days (Single Entry) – Issue”—and completes the application form with personal details of the guest.
- Upload required documents: passport copy, photo, return ticket, and proof of stay (tenancy or hotel booking).
- Sponsor pays fees and the refundable security deposit using a card. After payment, the application is submitted.
- Wait for processing (typically 2–5 business days). When approved, an e-visa is issued via email.
- Guest travels to Dubai, carrying a printed or digital copy of the e-visa and the return ticket. At arrival, immigration may request additional documentation; have passports, return tickets, and sponsor’s contact details readily available.
This route is suited to Emirati residents inviting family and friends and is the primary mechanism for the official 90-day visit visa product that many residents use.
Step-By-Step: Applying via Airline (Emirates/Etihad—Manage Your Booking)
If you booked a ticket with an airline that provides visa services, they can often generate the visit visa for you without passport submission. The airline verifies eligibility, processes payment, and delivers the e-visa.
- After booking your ticket, go to Manage Your Booking (airline portal) and locate the visa services section.
- Complete the online form, upload scans of the passport bio page, photo, and hotel booking, and pay the visa fee.
- Airlines typically require a minimum lead-time (Airlines like Emirates recommend at least 4 international working days).
- Once processed, the e-visa is emailed to you. Print or save a copy.
- Arrive at Dubai with your e-visa and supporting documents.
Airline visas are convenient and integrated with your booking, but they only work when your itinerary meets the airline’s conditions (on-ticket travel or code-share rules).
Step-By-Step: Arriving With a 90-Day Visa On Arrival
If you hold a passport eligible for a 90-day visa on arrival, the process is straightforward but not without checks.
- Confirm that your passport is on the list of eligible countries and that it has at least six months’ validity.
- Ensure you have a confirmed return or onward ticket and proof of accommodation.
- On arrival at Dubai International or any UAE port, present your passport to immigration. The 90-day stamp will be placed in your passport.
- Keep a copy of the stamped passport page or the entry record; you may need it for local registrations, SIM card purchase, or hotel check-in.
- Note the visa validity dates carefully—entry is usually valid for six months from issue, and the total stay allowed is 90 days.
Even with visa-on-arrival eligibility, immigration officers hold discretion. Be ready to answer basic travel questions and show supporting documents.
Extensions and Overstays: What You Need to Know
90-day visit visas are typically non-extendable depending on the visa category—review the visa text carefully. Some categories allow extensions under specific conditions and at specific offices (airport immigration or GDRFA). If you plan to stay longer, arrange an extension before your visa expires through official channels to avoid fines or detention.
Overstay fines are strict: expect AED 100 per day plus an out-pass fee of AED 200, and when overstaying exceeds 30 days, exit clearance may require in-person settlement at immigration headquarters. Overstays can affect future visa eligibility. Always keep an eye on your permitted days and plan departures or extensions at least a few days before expiry.
Common Application Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation
Missing attestations, a passport with insufficient validity, mismatched names between passport and ticket, or hotel bookings that do not match travel dates are the most common causes of visa delays or refusals. Always cross-check names, dates, and document quality before submission.
Using Unlicensed Agents
Only use licensed travel agents, hotels, or airline services. Unlicensed agents can take payments and disappear or submit incorrect data, leading to rejections and lost funds. If in doubt, ask your hotel or airline for confirmation of their licensing.
Timing Errors
Applying too close to departure increases the risk of delayed processing. For ICP-sponsored visas, allow up to 5 business days; for airline services, apply at least 4 working days in advance. For complex cases (attestations, bank proofs), start weeks in advance.
Misunderstanding the Sponsor’s Role
A sponsor’s job may include providing a refundable security deposit and presenting attestations. Clarify whether the sponsor is required to be present at any stage and whether employer-level criteria apply.
Practical Timeline: How to Plan Your Application (Blueprint)
One of the strengths of Saudi Travel & Leisure’s planning approach is converting requirements into a clear timeline. Use this blueprint to coordinate bookings and visa processing.
- T–30 days: Decide visa route (on-arrival eligibility vs. pre-arranged via airline or ICP). Book flights and provisional accommodations.
- T–21 days: Sponsor gathers and attests relationship documents if required. Obtain Emirates ID copies and tenancy or hotel confirmations. Start attestation procedures if documents originate outside the UAE.
- T–10 days: Submit visa application through ICP, airline, or agency. Keep copies of all payment receipts and submission confirmations.
- T–7 to T–2 days: Follow up on application status. Ensure email addresses and phone numbers supplied are correct to receive e-visa.
- Travel day: Print/save the e-visa, have passports and return tickets, and have sponsor contact and Emirates ID available. Allow time at arrival for potential visual screening and documentation checks.
This sequence minimizes last-minute stress and gives time for corrections or emergencies.
How the 5-Year Multiple-Entry Visa Differs (Who Should Consider It)
The five-year multiple-entry tourist visa aims at repeat visitors and permits stays of up to 90 days per visit. It requires stronger financial proof and insurance. Benefits include flexibility for frequent travelers, fewer application cycles, and often smoother re-entry because the visa is already on file.
Consider this visa if you frequently travel across the UAE for leisure or business, can show the required bank balance, and hold valid travel insurance. It’s especially useful for digital nomads, investors, or family members with recurring visits.
Entry Procedures at Dubai Airports: What to Expect
Dubai International and Al Maktoum handle high volumes of international traffic. Recent operational practices include random visual screening at immigration. If you’re selected, officers may request a hard copy of your e-visa or visa number confirmation page. If you cannot provide a printout, a small fee for printing in local currency may apply at the airport.
Immigration may also ask for return tickets, proof of funds, proof of accommodation, and sponsor contact details. Being prepared reduces time and stress.
Linking Visa Strategy to Travel in Saudi Arabia and the Region
Many travelers combine Dubai with itineraries in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries. Timing visas, flights and accommodations across borders requires coordination. When planning extended travel that includes Saudi Arabia, use regional travel planning resources to map logistics and ensure you meet visa windows and entry rules for each country.
If Dubai is part of a larger Gulf trip, consider resources that help coordinate Saudi travel logistics, domestic flights and regional overland transfers. For practical Saudi trip planning and a clear blueprint for exploring the Kingdom after Dubai, start with our regional travel planning resources. If your Gulf trip includes a Riyadh stopover, our tips on stopover planning in Riyadh help synchronize flights and visas. For travelers aiming to combine Dubai with deeper Saudi experiences, explore our Saudi Arabia travel hub for route ideas and timing.
Practical Itinerary Ideas for a 90-Day Dubai-Based Stay
A 90-day visit opens possibilities to experience Dubai slowly, explore neighboring emirates, and include time in Saudi Arabia. Here’s a narrative-style suggestion for pacing your stay without a rigid daily schedule:
Begin with two weeks in Dubai to settle: register a local SIM, familiarize yourself with transportation, and enjoy major sites (the old creek areas, modern city sights, and cultural neighborhoods). Spend the next three weeks using Dubai as a base to tour nearby emirates—Abu Dhabi’s cultural attractions, Ras Al Khaimah’s mountain treks, and Fujairah’s coastline. Reserve a 3–4 week block for a deeper Saudi land trip—fly to Riyadh and follow a planned route including historical sites and Red Sea options. Return to Dubai for the final fortnight to handle any visa formalities, relax in familiar neighborhoods and tie up travel home logistics.
If you want inspiration for combining Emirati and Saudi highlights, our coverage of Abu Dhabi visa options and experiences and regional itineraries can inform your pace.
Money, Insurance and Banking Practicalities
A long visit requires careful money planning. Carry a mix of cards and cash, and verify whether you need to show proof of funds for your visa category (especially for long-term multi-entry visas). Health insurance valid in the UAE may be mandatory for some visas; if your visa requires insurance, choose a policy with UAE coverage for the entire visa duration.
Bank statements used for self-sponsored long-term visas should show consistent balances for the required qualifying period (for example, six months). If a sponsor will provide financial guarantees, ensure they understand deposit, refund, and claim procedures.
What If Your Visa Is Refused?
Visa refusals can happen for several reasons: incomplete documentation, security checks, or discrepancies. If a visa is refused, the authority usually provides a reason. Common practical next steps include correcting the documentation and reapplying, seeking sponsorship from a UAE resident, or applying through a licensed hotel or agency that can verify local arrangements. Refunds for certain fee components may not be granted—clarify refund policies prior to payment.
Practical Tips for Smooth Arrival and Stay
- Carry both digital and printed copies of your e-visa and return ticket.
- Keep sponsor contact details and Emirates ID accessible.
- Confirm hotel reservations match travel dates exactly.
- Register a local emergency contact and local bank or card contact numbers.
- If you plan to drive, consider obtaining an International Driving Permit and confirm rental terms.
- Stay mindful of local laws and cultural norms to avoid serious complications.
When to Contact Official Channels
For application status, contact ICP or your airline’s visa support line. For arrival and immigration issues at Dubai airports, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai (GDRFA-D) handles in-emirate queries. For tracking ICP applications, use the ICP dashboard and follow the online updates. For airline applications, the airline’s visa desk is the primary point of contact.
If you want help synchronizing your Dubai visa timing with a broader Gulf itinerary, our regional hub and AlUla itineraries provide practical route planning and timing advice.
Decision Framework: Choosing the Best Route for You
Choose your application pathway using this decision logic:
- If your passport is eligible for a 90-day visa on arrival, use it and ensure you meet arrival requirements.
- If you’re already booked with an airline that offers visa services and your ticket qualifies, use the airline’s integrated visa service.
- If you have a trusted UAE resident who can sponsor you, the ICP route is reliable and document-based.
- If you intend to visit frequently, evaluate the five-year multi-entry tourist visa and ensure you meet financial and insurance requirements.
- If you’re booking a package holiday, allow your hotel or agency to handle the visa, but verify their licensing and insist on receiving the e-visa before travel.
This framework helps you avoid wasted payments and last-minute rebookings.
How Saudi Travel & Leisure Helps You Plan Cross-Border Gulf Trips
As the KSA Travel Insider voice, our role is to map the visa planning process onto practical, culturally informed travel plans. If your travel includes Saudi Arabia after Dubai, use our site for timing guidance, suggested itineraries, and essential licensing and travel tips. Our aim is to give you a blueprint for an enriching and legally secure cross-border Gulf trip—start your research with our regional travel planning resources and consult our specific pages for Riyadh when arranging flights or stopovers.
Troubleshooting: Real Scenarios and Solutions (Advisory Framework)
- Scenario: Your ICP-sponsored visa is delayed beyond the expected processing time. Solution: Confirm uploaded documents’ quality and attestations. Contact ICP support and your sponsor should follow up via the portal; consider paying priority processing if available.
- Scenario: Your airline visa service requests additional documents close to travel. Solution: Provide the documents immediately; if you cannot, discuss alternatives such as a sponsor applying through ICP or seeking a rebooking later date.
- Scenario: You overstayed unintentionally. Solution: Do not attempt to leave without settling fines. Go to the airport or GDRFA office (as required), pay fines and out-pass fees, and obtain an exit clearanceto avoid future entry bans.
These frameworks are designed to convert a stressful situation into a stepwise plan that minimizes fallout.
Cultural and Practical Etiquette While You Stay
Respect local customs: modest dressing in public places, avoidance of public displays of affection, and awareness of public behavior norms. Use official guidelines for Ramadan and public holidays. If you plan to explore Saudi Arabia after Dubai, consult our cultural briefings and logistical guidance for smooth transitions between countries.
For tailored Saudi itineraries that work alongside your Dubai travel, consult our practical planning pages—start with our planning portal to align visa dates with domestic travel windows.
Conclusion
Securing a 90-day visit visa for Dubai is fully achievable with the right pathway, accurate documentation, and sensible timing. Whether you qualify for a visa on arrival, prefer an airline-assisted process, will be sponsored by a UAE resident through the ICP system, or are seeking a long-term multiple-entry visa, these options provide flexibility for extended stays. Use the decision framework in this post to choose the correct route, follow the document checklist, and schedule your application early to avoid last-minute complications.
Start planning your Gulf travel confidently by visiting our planning portal and aligning your visa timing with flights and accommodation bookings. Start your trip planning with our travel blueprint.
FAQ
Can I extend a 90-day visit visa while in the UAE?
Extensions depend on the visa category. Some short-term tourist visas allow extensions processed in the UAE (airport immigration or GDRFA), while many single-entry 90-day visitor visas are non-extendable. Always check the visa text and speak to immigration officials before the visa expires.
How long does ICP processing usually take for a sponsored 90-day visit visa?
ICP processing commonly takes about 2–5 business days from submission, assuming correct documentation. Complex cases or additional document requests can extend this timeframe.
What happens if my passport expires while I’m in the UAE?
You must renew your passport via your country’s diplomatic mission in the UAE and notify immigration as required. If your passport expires, you may face difficulties leaving the country and renewing your visa status; plan passport renewals before travel.
Can I work on a 90-day visit visa?
No. Visit visas are for tourism and visiting purposes only; working on a visit visa is illegal and can lead to fines, deportation, and future entry bans. If you intend to work, secure the appropriate work permit and residency visa before starting employment.
If you want personalized planning help that includes timing your Dubai visa and synchronizing it with a Saudi itinerary, our site has practical resources and newsletters to keep you informed—visit our newsletter hub for updates and planning tools. Sign up on our newsletter hub.
