For Indian travelers venturing abroad, layovers in the UAE, particularly at Dubai International Airport, are common. As one of the world’s busiest airports, Dubai presents an enticing stopover opportunity. To explore Dubai during your transit, you’ll need a Dubai transit visa for Indians. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about obtaining a Dubai transit visa.

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What is a Dubai Transit Visa? A Dubai transit visa is a single-entry permit designed for travelers with layovers in the UAE lasting over 8 hours as part of their airport transit. Two types of transit visas are available: the 48-hour transit visa and the 96-hour transit visa. These are also electronic visas (e-visas) and must be obtained prior to your arrival in the UAE. However, travelers from select countries like the UK, USA, Schengen countries, GCC countries, and others are eligible for a visa on arrival.

The Dubai transit visa allows you to explore cities in the UAE, reunite with friends or family, and even engage in business meetings. Consequently, it’s an ideal choice for business travelers who only need a brief stay in the country.

Please note that although it’s commonly referred to as a ‘Dubai’ transit visa, the official name of the visa issued by Dubai is the UAE transit visa, which is valid throughout the entire UAE.

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How to Get a Dubai Transit Visa? The UAE embassy does not directly issue transit visas to ordinary passport holders. Instead, applications must be facilitated by Dubai-based airlines, travel agencies, or hotels. These entities can apply for the visa on your behalf to the official issuing authority in Dubai. Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for a Dubai transit visa:

1. Choose the application method that suits you, with a preference for reputable and legitimate travel agencies.

2. Determine the type of visa required based on your transit plans.

3. Collect the necessary documents as per your chosen visa type.

4. Complete the application form available on airline websites or at travel agencies.

5. Upload the required documents to the respective online portals.

6. Make the visa fee payment online.

7. Submit your application.

It’s imperative to provide accurate details and genuine documents to avoid visa denial, which could impact future applications.

Please note that if you’re flying to Dubai with their home-based airlines, such as Emirates or Fly Dubai, you can apply at one of the Dubai Visa Service Centers conveniently located throughout India.

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Eligibility for Transit Visa for Dubai To be eligible for a Dubai transit visa, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Possess a valid ordinary passport.

2. Hold an onward flight ticket from the UAE within the visa’s validity period.

3. If your transit duration exceeds 24 hours, provide either a hotel booking confirmation or proof of residence of the family or friends with whom you’ll stay during your transit.

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Dubai Transit Visa Requirements As per the transit visa requirements, the following documents are typically required for the application:

1. A passport with a minimum validity of 6 months from your travel date.

2. Color copies of the passport.

3. Two identical passport-sized photographs.

4. Confirmed flight tickets, including details of your onward journey.

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Dubai Transit Visa Fee The fees for a transit visa depend on various factors, including the speed of processing, visa type, service charges, and more. Additional charges may apply based on the chosen application method. It’s essential to confirm the exact fees before applying for the visa.

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Dubai Transit Visa Processing Time Dubai transit visas are typically processed within 3-5 working days. However, processing times may vary depending on factors such as express processing options, visa duration, entry type, and document complications. The processing time can also be expedited if you meet certain eligibility criteria, such as holding a visa to Schengen, UK, USA, etc., in the past 5 years or having an invitation letter from a UAE-based family member.

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How to Check Dubai Transit Visa Status? You can check the status of your Dubai transit visa through various methods. If you applied through an airline or travel agency, you can log in to their portal to track your application’s status. Alternatively, you can send an email to the relevant agency or inquire through the Dubai visa application center’s website using your reference number and passport expiry date.

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After Obtaining Your Transit Visa Once you’ve secured your transit visa, here are some key points to keep in mind:

Before Traveling:

• Print a copy of your visa and carry it with you as part of your travel documents.
• Ensure you have all necessary travel documents, including your passport and identification.
• Take note of your visa’s validity to avoid overstaying, as exceeding the visa’s expiration date is a criminal offense with potential fines and penalties.
• If you’re flying with a Dubai-based airline, you may be required to travel with them to the UAE.
• For 48-hour transit visas, you must travel within 14 days of visa issuance, and for 96-hour transit visas, travel within 30 days of issuance.

At the Border:

• Upon landing in the UAE, present your visa and passport to border control.
• Provide your onward journey ticket.
• Keep in mind that the visa does not guarantee entry into the country, as entry is at the discretion of Dubai’s border control.

While in Dubai:

• While in the UAE, you have the flexibility to explore various emirates.
• However, you are not permitted to engage in work while on a transit visa. Business meetings, conferences, and similar activities are allowed.
• Transit visas cannot be extended, so plan your stay accordingly.
• Dubai has strict laws, and it’s essential to abide by them while in the country.
• Respect local customs and traditions during your visit.

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