If you’re planning to land in the UAE this year, the first thing to sort out is the visa. The country now offers a mix of short‑term and long‑term permits, each tailored to different needs. Below you’ll find the most common visa types, what they cost, how long they last, and a quick checklist so you can apply without headaches.
Tourist Visa – Ideal for holidaymakers and short business trips. You can get a 30‑day single entry visa for about AED 350, extendable once for another 30 days. Required docs are a passport valid for six months, a recent photo, and a copy of your flight itinerary.
Business Visa – Perfect if you’re attending meetings, conferences, or scouting for deals. It works like the tourist visa but often comes with a faster processing time if your sponsor is a UAE‑registered company. Expect fees around AED 500 and a similar 30‑day stay.
Remote Work Visa – New for 2025, this allows freelancers and digital nomads to live in the UAE while working for foreign clients. You need proof of income (minimum USD 5,000 per month), health insurance, and a lease agreement. The visa is valid for one year and can be renewed.
Student Visa – If you’ve been accepted by a UAE university or college, the school will act as your sponsor. The visa is valid for the length of your program, usually up to two years, and costs roughly AED 1,000. Bring your admission letter, passport, and a health check.
Residence Visa – For expats who have a job offer or a family member sponsoring them. Your employer handles most of the paperwork, including a labor contract and an Emirates ID. The visa runs for two or three years, depending on the contract.
Golden Visa – The premium option for investors, entrepreneurs, researchers, and exceptional talent. Investing AED 10 million in property or a business, or showing outstanding achievements, can secure a 5‑ or 10‑year visa with no need for a local sponsor. Fees start at AED 5,000 and include a thorough background check.
All visas require a clean criminal record, a medical exam, and a valid passport. Processing times range from 3‑5 working days for tourist visas to 2‑4 weeks for Golden Visas. Most applications can be submitted online through the UAE’s e‑channel portal, and you’ll receive an electronic approval before you travel.
Quick checklist before you apply:
Once you have the visa, keep a digital copy handy and make sure your Emirates ID is updated if you’re staying longer than 90 days. If any question pops up, the UAE’s official visa website has a live chat and a detailed FAQ section.
Choosing the right visa saves time, money, and stress. Whether you’re here for a week of sightseeing, a year of remote work, or planning to set up a business, the UAE offers a clear path. Follow the steps above, double‑check your documents, and you’ll be ready to enjoy the city’s luxury, culture, and endless opportunities.
Yes-Americans can live in Dubai with a residence visa. Here’s how to get one, what it costs, how taxes work for US citizens, and what daily life really looks like in 2025.
Read More