The UAE government has recently introduced new Dubai visit visa extension regulations that make extending your visit visa easier than ever. Dubai attracts millions of visitors from around the world every year due to its luxurious skyscrapers, stunning beaches, and business opportunities. Furthermore, with its iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and the Palm Jumeirah, Dubai offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition that makes it a popular destination among travellers.
But what if your initial visa isn’t enough time to soak it all in? With the introduction of the new visit visa extension rules, you can explore the wonders of Dubai for longer to ensure your dream vacation becomes a reality.
Let’s explore these new visa extension regulations and options in 2025 and understand the process to maximise your Dubai adventure!
Type of Visit Visas in Dubai
Visit visas are permits issued by the government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) that allow foreign visitors to enter and stay in Dubai for a specific purpose and timeframe. Moreover, these visas are applicable to anyone who wants to visit Dubai for tourism, business meetings, visiting family or friends, or for short-term medical treatment.
There are different types of visit visas available in Dubai, each with varying durations and limitations.
- Tourist Visa: This is the most common type of visit visa, issued for leisure purposes. It can be a single-entry visa valid for 30 days from arrival or a multiple-entry visa valid for 30 days from the first entry with a total stay of 90 days within a 180-day period. There’s also a new long-term single-entry visa valid for 60 days from the date of issue.
- On-Arrival Visa: Nationals of certain countries, including India, can obtain a visa upon arrival at Dubai airport. This visa is typically valid for 14 days and can be extended for an additional 14 days.
- Visit Visa for Business Meetings: This visa is intended for business visitors attending meetings or conferences in Dubai. It is usually valid for 30 days.
Visitors to Dubai must comply with the regulations of their visa. Overstaying a visa can result in fines and even imprisonment. Visitors should also be aware of the restrictions on their visa type. For example, visitors on a tourist visa cannot work in Dubai.
Reasons for Extending Your UAE Visit Visa
Dubai offers so much to experience; however, with so much to see and do, a standard 30- or 60-day visit visa might feel limiting. Here are some common reasons why visitors seek extensions:
- Extended Stay: If your initial visit visa doesn’t cover your entire desired stay in Dubai, an extension allows you to stay legally for a longer period.
- Unexpected Circumstances: Trip delays, missed flights, or unforeseen events can cause you to overstay your visa. Extensions help avoid fines and penalties associated with overstaying.
- Business: Maybe your business meetings took longer than expected, or new opportunities arose requiring a longer stay. An extension helps you handle these situations.
- Change of Plans: If your plans change during your visit and you decide to stay longer than initially intended, a visa extension allows you to do so legally.
- Visiting Family/Friends: Spending more time with loved ones might be desirable. An extension allows you to extend your visit.
New UAE Visit Visa Extension Rules – 2025
There are many good updates for visitors to Dubai in 2025 regarding Dubai visit visa extensions. You now have more flexibility over your extended stay options. Both 30-day and 60-day visit visas can be extended for an additional 30 days at a time. Previously, extensions might have been limited to shorter durations.
The total duration of your stay in the UAE on a visit visa cannot exceed 180 days within a year. This means you can strategically apply for extensions throughout the year as long as you don’t go over 180 days cumulatively.
The option to extend your visa from within the UAE has also been reinstated. This eliminates the need to exit the country and re-enter for an extension, saving you time and hassle.
Additionally, authorities have eliminated the 10-day grace period that previously allowed visitors extra time after their visa expiration. Make sure to apply for extensions well before your current visa expires to avoid fines.
You typically apply for extensions through the same agency that issued your initial visa. In some cases, you can also use the ICP (Immigration Control Authority) smart application.
Dubai Visit Visa Extension Options in 2025
In Dubai, you have a few options for extending your visit visa in 2025. Here’s what you need to know:
Types of Visas Eligible for Extension:
- 30-day visit visas (single or multiple entry): You can extend these for an additional 30 days at a time.
- 60-day visit visas (single or multiple entry): You can also extend these for an additional 30 days at a time.
Extension Options:
- In-country Extension: This is the most convenient option. You can apply to extend your visa from within the UAE without needing to exit and re-enter the country.
- Maximum Duration: The total duration of your stay in Dubai cannot exceed 180 days within a calendar year. This includes the initial visa validity and any extensions granted.
- Extension Increments: You can extend your visa in 30-day increments, allowing you to utilise it to your specific needs. The most you can extend is 60 days total (across multiple applications).
Ensure you apply for the extension before your current visa expires. There’s no longer a grace period, and overstaying incurs a fine of AED 50 per additional day.
How to Extend a Visit Visa in the UAE: A Step-by-Step Guide
Extending your visit visa in the UAE is a straightforward process that can typically be done entirely online or in person. To ensure a smooth experience, it’s crucial to have your documents ready and follow the correct steps for your chosen application method.
Here is a simple step-by-step guide to extending your UAE visit visa.
Step 1: Prepare the Required Documents
Before starting your application, gather all the necessary documents. Having these prepared will save you significant time.
- Original Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from your application date.
- Passport-Sized Photographs: Two recent photos with a plain white background.
- Current Visa Copy: A clear copy of your existing visit visa and the original grant notice.
- Proof of Travel Health Insurance: Your insurance policy must be valid for the entire period of your requested extension.
- Proof of Accommodation: A copy of your hotel reservation or tenancy agreement for your stay in the UAE.
- Proof of Sufficient Funds: Recent bank statements or credit card details demonstrating you can financially support your extended stay.
Please note that you will also need to pay the visa extension fee. Check the official General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website for the most current fee structure.
Step 2: Select Your Application Method
You can choose to apply online for convenience or visit a service center in person.
- Online Application: The quickest and most convenient method. You will need to use the official government portal (such as the GDRFA or ICP smart services systems) or a licensed typing center website.
- In-Person Application: Visit an authorized service center, such as an Amer Centre in Dubai or the relevant immigration authority office in other emirates.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
The submission process varies slightly depending on your chosen method.
For Online Applications:
- Log in to the relevant smart services portal (e.g., GDRFA for Dubai) using your UAE Pass or account credentials.
- Navigate to the visa services section and find “Extend Visa” or a similar option.
- Accurately fill out the digital application form with your personal and visa details.
- Upload clear, scanned copies of all the required documents.
- Pay the visa extension fee securely using a credit or debit card.
For In-Person Applications:
- Go to your chosen service center (e.g., Amer Centre).
- Collect a visa extension application form.
- Fill out the form completely and attach the required documents.
- Submit the package to the counter and pay the applicable fees.
Step 4: Track Your Status and Receive Your Visa
After submission, you can usually track the status of your application online using the reference number provided. You will receive notifications via SMS or email once a decision is made. Upon approval, you can download your e-visa or collect the physical copy as instructed.
Dubai Visa Extension Fees in 2025
A one-month UAE visa extension costs approximately AED 600, plus a 5% VAT. The total price can vary slightly depending on how and where you apply, as travel agents and typing centers charge additional service fees on top of the government fees. For the exact cost and official procedures, it is best to check the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website or contact the GDRFA directly.
Consult with a Shuraa business expert for a detailed cost breakdown.
How To Check Overstay Fine In UAE?
Firstly, to check overstay fines in the UAE, access the GDRFA website or the ICP website.On the GDRFA site, select the appropriate file type, provide the necessary details, and solve a captcha to view your fine details.
There are two main ways to check for overstay fines in the UAE:
1. Using the GDRFA Website
- Visit the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Website.
- Look for the “Fines Inquiry Service.”
- You can search using options such as file number, UDB number (unified database number), Emirates ID, or passport number.
- Select the search type that applies to you and enter the corresponding details.
- You’ll also need to choose the “File” Type”—either “Resident” (for residence visa holders) or “Permit” (for visit or tourist visa holders).
- Finally, complete any additional CAPTCHA verification and submit your inquiry.
- If you have any outstanding fines, the system will display the details, including the amount and any relevant information.
2. Using the ICA Smart Services (Mobile App)
- Download and install the ICA UAE Smart Services app on your smartphone. (ICA refers to the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship.)
- Once installed, launch the app and look for options related to “Fines” or “Visa Inquiry.”
- Register for an account or log in using your Emirates ID if you already have one.
- Follow the app’s instructions to access your visa information and any potential fines associated with it.
Simplify Your Dubai Journey
Extending your visit visa in Dubai can be a straightforward process if you understand the options available to you. Whether you opt for a renewal, a new visa, or a change of status, it’s important to understand the requirements and procedures involved.
For a seamless Dubai experience, team up with Shuraa Business Setup. We specialise in handling all your business setup requirements in Dubai, including expert visa support.
Our team of experts can guide you through the entire process to ensure a smooth transition into your Emirati adventure.
So, explore Dubai with confidence, and let Shuraa Business Setup handle the formalities. Contact us today at +971 44081900 or WhatsApp at +971 507775554 or drop an email at info@shuraa.com and get ready to make the most of your extended stay!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I extend my visit visa while I’m still in Dubai?
Yes, under the new regulations, you can extend your visit visa for an additional 30 days, twice in a row, for a total of 90 days. This can be done entirely within Dubai using the Immigration and Citizenship Platform (ICP) smartphone application.
2. Can I apply for a visa extension after my visa has expired?
No, unfortunately, applying for a visa extension after your visa expiry is not possible. You will need to leave the country and re-apply for a new visa if you wish to stay longer. There is a 10-day grace period after expiry, but overstaying will incur fines.
3. How much does a visit visa extension typically cost?
The cost of a visit visa extension in Dubai can vary depending on the processing speed and additional services used. It is generally around AED 1,100.
4. Is there an online application for a visit visa extension?
Yes, you can apply for a visit visa extension online through the Immigration and Citizenship Platform (ICP) smartphone application. This is the most convenient way to extend your visa.
5. Can I work while on a Dubai visit visa extension?
Working on a visit visa is strictly prohibited in Dubai. This rule applies to both paid and unpaid employment. If you plan to work, you must apply for a proper work visa through a sponsoring company.
6. Is there an application fee for a same-day visa change?
Yes, there is typically an application fee for a same-day visa change, along with any associated costs for the new visa type you’re converting to.
Disclaimer: The information in this post is for general guidance only and may change due to updates in government policies or regulations.
