Renewing a tourist visa in Dubai can be a confusing process for many travelers, especially those unfamiliar with the latest procedures and visa policies. As Dubai continues to thrive as one of the world’s most visited cities, many tourists find themselves needing to either apply for or renew their Dubai tourist visa during peak travel seasons.
Recognized as a global tourism and leisure hub, Dubai offers visitors a unique blend of comfort, luxury, and safety. Whether you’re here to explore modern attractions or relax by the beach, this guide covers everything you need to know about renewing a tourist visa in Dubai in 2025.
How to Apply for a Tourist Visa in the UAE
Foreign nationals can enter the UAE either visa-free, on a visa-on-arrival basis, or by applying for a tourist visa in advance. Applications can be submitted through:
- UAE airlines
- Travel agencies
- Hotels in the UAE
Tourist visa holders can enter the UAE multiple times without needing a sponsor or host. Typically, the stay duration is 90 days per visit, with the option to extend it for another 90 days, not exceeding a total of 180 days per year. This type of visa is available to citizens of all nationalities.
Types of Tourist Visas in Dubai
Tourist visas in Dubai differ based on:
- Duration of stay
- Number of allowed entries
The renewal process varies depending on the visa type. For instance, renewing a tourist visa involves different steps compared to renewing a work visa. Similarly, the cost of a tourist visa may vary depending on the selected type—especially with options like the 5-year UAE tourist visa, which allows for longer stays and multiple entries.
Who Is Eligible for a Tourist Visa?
You may not need a tourist visa at all if you hold a passport from a country eligible for visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival to the UAE. For all others, a tourist visa is required and is typically issued under the visit visa category, available to eligible individuals worldwide.
Can Females Under 18 Apply for a Dubai Tourist Visa?
According to UAE visa regulations, females under 18 years of age are not eligible to apply for a tourist visa unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
How to Apply for a Dubai Tourist Visa?
Once you’ve decided to visit Dubai, you can apply for a tourist visa through:
- UAE-based airlines, such as Emirates, Etihad Airways, Flydubai, and Air Arabia.
- Authorized travel agencies and hotels in the UAE (if you book your tickets and accommodation through them).
- Local travel agents in your country offering UAE vacation packages in coordination with certified UAE tour operators.
⚠️ Important Tip: Always ensure that your travel agent is licensed and trustworthy. Do not send personal documents or payments until you’ve confirmed the agent’s credentials. You can also reach out to the UAE Embassy or Consulate in your home country for assistance in verifying authorized travel partners.
Do UAE Embassies or Consulates Issue Tourist Visas?
No, UAE embassies and consulates abroad do not issue tourist or visit visas. Instead, travelers must apply through:
- UAE national airlines
- Licensed travel agencies
- Hotels in the UAE
These entities will apply for a tourist visa on your behalf through the official UAE visa issuance platforms. Additionally, your passport must be valid for at least six months to be eligible for a tourist visa application.
For more travel advice, don’t miss our complete Dubai summer tourism guide, where you’ll discover the best activities, attractions, and seasonal events for an unforgettable holiday in 2025!
What Is Renewing a Tourist Visa in Dubai?
Renewing a tourist visa in Dubai is an essential process for visitors who wish to extend their legal stay in the UAE beyond their current visa’s expiration. Whether for tourism, family reasons, or simply to explore more of what the Emirates has to offer, understanding how the renewal works is crucial to avoid legal complications.
According to UAE visa regulations, individuals are permitted to renew their tourist visa to extend their stay in the country legally. This process is especially important for those who want to continue residing, traveling, or exploring opportunities in the UAE without facing penalties or overstay fines.
Step-by-Step Guide to Renewing a Tourist Visa in Dubai
If you’re wondering how to renew a tourist visa in Dubai, here’s a simplified breakdown:
- Check the Visa Expiry Date
Make sure you know when your visa expires so you can begin the renewal process on time. - Confirm Your Eligibility
Renewal criteria may vary based on the visa type and sponsoring entity (if applicable), so verify your eligibility before proceeding. - Apply Online (Where Applicable)
Many visa renewals can be processed digitally via official UAE government portals or through approved channels in Dubai. - Submit the Required Documents, which may include:
- A scanned copy of your passport
- A completed visa renewal application form
- A recent passport-size photograph
- Proof of accommodation or employment
- UAE medical fitness test results (if required for the visa type)
- Health insurance or a valid health card
- Undergo Medical Examination
For some visa types, applicants must complete a medical fitness test at a certified UAE health center. - Biometric Data Submission
You may need to provide fingerprints and facial recognition data for identity verification. - Pay the Renewal Fees
Visa renewal fees must be paid via authorized payment platforms or designated service centers. - Receive Approval Notification
Once your application is reviewed and approved, you will be notified electronically or via the immigration authority to collect your renewed visa.
Required Documents for Renewing a Tourist Visa in Dubai
To renew your tourist visa, prepare the following documents:
- A recent color passport photo with a white background
- A copy of your passport (valid for at least six months)
- A valid UAE health insurance card
- A completed Emirates ID application form
- A medical fitness certificate (if required)
Grace Period Removed for Tourist Visa Holders
Previously, Dubai provided a grace period after visa expiration, allowing visitors a few days to arrange their departure. However, recent policy changes have eliminated this buffer. Tourists must now leave the country before their visa expires to avoid legal consequences and fines.
Overstay Fines for Tourist Visas in Dubai
If you overstay your tourist visa in Dubai, you’ll be subject to daily overstay fines. Under the new rules introduced as part of broader visa reforms:
- The fine is AED 50 per day of overstay (previously AED 25).
- Additional administrative penalties may apply if documents are not submitted correctly during the renewal process.
- If you fail to upload the correct documents within 30 days, or if errors are made more than three times, your application will be automatically canceled, requiring a new submission.
How to Pay Overstay Fines in Dubai?
You can settle overstay fines using two main methods:
- Visit customer happiness centers in person.
- Use the official immigration website or smart app for online payment.
Please note: Any extra time spent gathering or correcting documents will also count toward the overstay period and increase the total fine amount.
Can You Extend a Tourist Visa From Within the UAE?
Yes! Under the new UAE visa reforms, tourists holding 30- or 60-day visit visas can apply for an additional 30-day extension without exiting the country. This move by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) is designed to allow visitors more time to explore the UAE.
The extension process includes:
- Application submission through approved platforms
- Required documents (similar to those for renewal)
- Payment of applicable fees
- Completion within the allowed time frame
Latest Updates on Renewing a Tourist Visa in Dubai – 2025 Guide
With the rising number of tourists choosing the UAE as their holiday destination, renewing a tourist visa in Dubai has become a key topic for travelers looking to extend their stay. Over the past year, the UAE has introduced major reforms to its visa and entry permit systems—making it more flexible and convenient for tourists.
Let’s explore the recent changes and everything you need to know about the renewal process, requirements, and updated fees.
1. Major Reforms in UAE Visa Policies
Since October of last year, the UAE has implemented one of the largest overhauls in its visa and residency system under the national migration and citizenship framework. Among these changes, the visit visa system has been significantly enhanced—providing more options for tourists to extend their stay within the country.
2. Extension Options and Maximum Stay Duration
Under the updated visa laws, holders of 30-day or 60-day visit visas can now apply for an extension of up to 30 additional days, provided that the total stay does not exceed 120 days in a calendar year.
According to representatives at Amer service centers, it’s possible to apply for multiple extensions, each granting a 30-day stay—subject to eligibility and approval.
3. How to Begin the Tourist Visa Extension Process
To start renewing a tourist visa in Dubai, visitors should reach out to their travel agent or sponsor well before their visa expires. As highlighted by Fayrouz Khan, Operations Manager at Arabian Business Center, early coordination is essential to ensure a smooth extension process.
Your visa agent will advise you on:
- Required documents
- Applicable fees
- Processing timelines
4. Documents Required to Extend a UAE Tourist Visa
To apply for a tourist visa extension, the following is typically required:
- A valid passport with at least six months of validity
- Any additional documents as instructed by the issuing travel agency or sponsor
Specific requirements may vary depending on the applicant’s visa type, nationality, and the agency handling the process.
5. Processing Time and Fees for Tourist Visa Extensions
While processing times vary by provider, the UAE ICP website states that the extension can typically be completed within 48 hours once all conditions are met.
The standard cost to extend a Dubai tourist visa for 30 days is approximately AED 1,050, according to Khan. This includes application and administrative fees.
6. Detailed Breakdown of Extension Fees
According to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), the updated visa extension fees are as follows:
- Visa Extension Fee: AED 600
- 5% VAT: Applicable on the base fee
- Knowledge Dirham: AED 10
- Innovation Dirham: AED 10
- In-Country Fee: AED 500
⚠️ Note: The final amount may vary depending on the applicant’s visa type, current status, or additional processing services.
How to Apply for a Tourist Visa Extension in Dubai
Applications for tourist visa extensions in Dubai must be submitted through licensed travel agencies. Agencies often advise tourists to either extend their visa on time or leave the country before expiration to avoid penalties.
Failure to renew the visa before its expiry results in overstay fines, which are calculated based on the number of days exceeded. These fines may vary depending on visa type and the length of overstay.
That wraps up everything you need to know about renewing a tourist visa in Dubai in 2025. From recent policy changes to the latest fee structures, it’s clear that the UAE continues to streamline and improve the visitor experience.
For more information, be sure to check out our upcoming FAQ section about visa types, overstays, and residency options in the UAE. And read our blog about:
FAQs about Renewing a Tourist Visa in Dubai 2025
What is the new rule for visa renewal in the UAE?
What is the new rule for visa renewal in the UAE?
A recent update to the UAE’s visa policies has introduced an extended grace period for certain residents after visa expiry. Depending on the visa category and eligibility, sponsors may have anywhere from 30 days up to 6 months to renew the visa. However, not all visa holders qualify for the full six-month extension.
How much does it cost to renew visa in Dubai?
How much does it cost to renew a visa in Dubai?
The cost of renewing a visa in Dubai can vary depending on your visa type, nationality, and application method. Typically, fees range from AED 1,000 to AED 5,000, covering application charges, service fees, and any additional government costs.
Can I renew my UAE visa before it expires?
Can I renew my UAE visa before it expires?
Yes, you can. Most UAE residence visas can be renewed up to 90 days before the expiry date. Renewing early helps avoid last-minute issues and ensures you remain compliant with immigration regulations.
How do I extend my tourist visa?
How do I extend my tourist visa?
To extend your tourist visa in the UAE, you should apply through authorized channels—such as the ICP portal, a travel agency, or an Amer center—before your current visa expires. Ideally, start the extension process at least a few weeks in advance to avoid overstaying penalties.
How many times can I extend my tourist visa in the UAE?
How many times can I extend my tourist visa in the UAE?
Tourists are allowed to extend their UAE tourist visa twice, giving them a total stay of up to 60 additional days. After this, they must exit the country and may reapply for a new visa after a waiting period. Overstaying beyond the final extension can lead to daily fines of AED 100.
How many months before expiry can I renew my visa?
How many months before expiry can I renew my visa?
You can begin the visa renewal process up to 3 months (90 days) before your current visa expires. This advance window helps ensure your legal stay continues smoothly without interruption.
How much is a tourist visa for the UAE for 2 months?
How much is a tourist visa for the UAE for 2 months?
A 60-day tourist visa for the UAE typically starts at AED 599, depending on the service provider. This option is perfect for travelers seeking an extended visit to explore the country beyond the standard 30 days.
Is there a grace period for visit visa in the UAE?
Is there a grace period for visit visas in the UAE?
No, the grace period for UAE visit visas has been removed. Tourists must now leave the UAE or extend their visa before the expiry date. Failure to do so will result in overstay fines, possible bans, or legal complications.
How much is the fee for Emirates ID renewal?
How much is the fee for Emirates ID renewal?
The renewal fee for an Emirates ID depends on the chosen validity period:
- 1-year renewal: Around AED 170
- 2-year renewal: Approximately AED 340
- 3-year renewal: About AED 510
Additional service charges may apply depending on the channel used for application.
How to renew a tourist visa in Dubai?
How to renew a tourist visa in Dubai?
To renew a tourist visa in Dubai, follow these steps:
Track your application status online and receive confirmation upon approval.
Collect required documents (passport, photo, insurance, etc.).
Apply through the UAE’s official portals, an Amer center, or a licensed travel agent.
Submit your application and pay the applicable fees.
