Dubai Visa Guide: Tourist, Work & Residence Visas 2025

Understanding UAE visa requirements is essential for visiting or relocating to Dubai. Various visa types serve different purposes from short tourist visits to long-term residence, each with specific requirements and application procedures. **Tourist Visas** Short-term tourist visas (30 or 90 days) allow leisure travel. Many nationalities receive visa-on-arrival or visa-free entry. Others must apply through airlines, hotels, or tour operators before travel. **Visit Visas** Extended visit visas (up to 90 days) suit longer stays for tourism or visiting family. These visas can be sponsored by UAE residents, hotels, or travel agencies with specific documentation requirements. **Employment Visas** Work permits sponsored by UAE employers allow legal employment. Process includes job offer, labor contract, medical fitness test, and Emirates ID. Employers handle most procedures. **Residence Visas** Long-term residence visas (typically 2-3 years renewable) granted through employment, property ownership, or family sponsorship. Requirements include medical tests, Emirates ID, and sponsor documentation. **Golden Visa** Long-term residence (5-10 years) for investors, entrepreneurs, specialized talents, and outstanding students. This visa offers extended validity and benefits including family sponsorship. **Retirement Visa** Retirees meeting financial requirements can obtain long-term visas. Requirements include minimum age, property ownership or savings, and health insurance coverage. **Student Visas** Educational institutions sponsor student visas for enrolled students. Requirements include admission letter, financial proof, and medical fitness. Validity matches study program duration. **Family Sponsorship** Residents meeting salary requirements can sponsor family members including spouses, children, and parents. Each family member requires separate visa with specific documentation. **Visa Application Process** Applications submitted through sponsors (employers, family, or service providers). Process includes document submission, medical tests, biometric registration, and Emirates ID issuance. **Visa Costs and Validity** Costs vary by visa type and duration. Tourist visas range from AED 100-1000, while residence visas cost several thousand dirhams including medical tests and Emirates ID fees.