Overview
Whether you need a UAE visa for a layover depends on whether you leave the airport. If you stay airside (in the transit area and do not pass UAE immigration), you generally do not need a UAE visa. If you want to leave the airport (e.g. enter Dubai or Abu Dhabi), you need a valid UAE visa. Our service helps you apply for UAE e-Tourist visas, which you can use if you plan to enter the UAE during your layover.
Transit Without Leaving the Airport
If you are only transiting—changing planes without going through UAE immigration or leaving the airport—you typically do not need a UAE visa. You remain in the international transit area. Rules can vary by airport and nationality, so it is best to confirm with your airline or the airport. Many nationalities can transit visa-free as long as they do not leave the transit zone.
Leaving the Airport During a Layover
If you plan to leave the airport—for example, to spend a day in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, or to stay in a hotel in the UAE—you must have a valid UAE visa. In that case you need to apply for a visa before you travel. Our service assists with UAE e-Tourist visas (30 days single/multiple, 60 days single/multiple). You apply online, receive the eVisa by email, and print it to present at immigration when you enter the UAE.
We Assist With Tourist eVisas
We do not offer a separate “transit visa” product. We help you apply for UAE e-Tourist visas, which are suitable if you want to enter the UAE during your layover (e.g. for a short visit). You choose the visa type (e.g. 30 days single entry) that fits your stay. Fees depend on your nationality and visa type; our service fee is US$ 59.99 per passenger. See our Fees and Apply pages for details.
Check Your Airline and Route
- Airline and ticket – Some airlines or ticket types may require you to have a visa even for transit (e.g. if you need to collect baggage or re-check in). Check your airline’s rules.
- Length of layover – If your layover is very short and you stay airside, you usually do not need a UAE visa. If it is long and you want to go out, you need a visa.
- Nationality – Visa-free transit rules can differ by nationality. When in doubt, confirm with your airline or apply for an eVisa if you plan to enter the UAE.
Frequently Asked Questions
I have a 6-hour layover in Dubai and will not leave the airport. Do I need a visa?
Usually no. If you stay in the transit area and do not pass UAE immigration, you typically do not need a UAE visa. Confirm with your airline.
I want to leave the airport during my layover. What do I need?
You need a valid UAE visa. You can apply for a UAE e-Tourist visa through our service, then print it and carry it with your passport when you enter the UAE.
Do you offer a special transit visa?
We assist with UAE e-Tourist visas only. If you are leaving the airport, a tourist eVisa is what you need. There is no separate “transit visa” product on our site.
How do I apply for a visa to leave the airport during my layover?
Use our Apply page: choose your travel dates (including your layover dates), number of passengers, and complete the form. You will pay the government fee (by nationality and visa type) plus US$ 59.99 per passenger, then upload documents and receive your eVisa by email.
Will the airline let me board without a visa if I am only transiting?
For transit without leaving the airport, many passengers do not need a UAE visa. Boarding rules depend on the airline and your nationality. Always check with your airline before travel.
