UAE Transit Visa Cost Calculator

The 48-hour transit visa is valid for 2 days and costs approximately AED 130-200, ideal for short layovers. The 96-hour transit visa is valid for 4 days and costs AED 230-330, better for longer layovers where you want to explore UAE more extensively. Both are counted from your landing time, not visa issuance date. Neither can be extended, and you must have confirmed onward flight tickets within the validity period. Choose based on your layover duration and sightseeing plans.

A 48-hour UAE transit visa costs approximately AED 130-250 ($35-68) including all fees, while a 96-hour transit visa costs AED 230-380 ($63-103). The cost includes base visa fee, service charges, and airline/hotel sponsor fees. Express processing adds AED 50 extra. Final cost varies by airline or hotel provider. Emirates and Etihad often offer transit visa packages bundled with hotel stays at competitive rates. Always confirm exact fees with your sponsor before applying.

Yes! UAE transit visa specifically allows you to leave the airport and explore Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or other emirates during your layover. You can visit tourist attractions, shop, dine, stay in hotels, and enjoy the city. This is the main benefit over remaining in the airport transit area. However, you must return to the airport and depart UAE before your transit visa expires (48 or 96 hours from landing). Keep your passport, visa printout, and onward flight ticket with you at all times.

Apply through your airline (Emirates, Etihad, flydubai, Air Arabia) or book a hotel package that includes transit visa sponsorship. Contact them at least 3-5 days before travel with your passport copy, photo, and confirmed onward flight ticket. Pay the visa fees, and they will process and email you the e-visa. Some airlines offer transit visa as an add-on during ticket booking. You cannot apply directly to UAE immigration for transit visa - you must have an airline or hotel sponsor.

No, UAE transit visas cannot be extended under any circumstances. If you miss your flight or need to stay longer, you must either exit UAE and re-enter with a new visa, or face overstay fines (AED 200 initial + AED 100 per day). In emergency situations, contact your airline immediately - they may be able to help change your visa status or arrange emergency exit. It's crucial to leave UAE with several hours buffer before your transit visa expires to avoid complications.

No, not all nationalities are eligible for UAE transit visa. Most countries can apply, but some have restrictions or require advance approval. Citizens of certain countries cannot get transit visa and must apply for regular tourist visa instead. Some nationalities get free 48-96 hour transit facility on arrival without advance visa. GCC residents may not need transit visa at all. Always check with your airline or UAE embassy regarding your specific nationality's eligibility before booking flights with UAE layover.

Overstaying a transit visa results in immediate fines: AED 200 initial penalty plus AED 100 for each day of overstay. You must pay these fines at the airport before departure. Extended overstays (weeks or months) can result in entry bans, deportation, and legal issues. There is NO grace period for transit visas. Airlines may also impose their own penalties and blacklist you from future bookings. To avoid this, always plan to leave UAE at least 4-6 hours before your transit visa expires.

No, transit visas are strictly for tourism and transit purposes only. You cannot work, conduct business meetings, sign contracts, or engage in any commercial activities on a transit visa. Violations can result in heavy fines, deportation, and entry bans. If you need to conduct business in UAE, apply for a proper business visa instead. Transit visa holders can only engage in tourist activities like sightseeing, shopping, dining, and visiting attractions during their brief stay.