Frequent travellers, tourists and family visitors can apply for the UAE's five-year multiple-entry tourist visa, allowing them to visit the country multiple times without the need for a sponsor or host.
The General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA Dubai) has clarified the requirements and application process for the long-term self-sponsored visa, which can be processed in as little as 48 hours once all requirements are met.
The visa is valid for five years from the date of issue and allows holders to enter and leave the UAE multiple times during its validity. Visitors may stay in the UAE for up to 90 days per visit, with the option to extend their stay by another 90 days. However, the total period spent in the UAE must not exceed 180 days within one year.
The visa is designed for tourists, business travellers, frequent visitors and people who regularly travel to the UAE and need greater flexibility than standard tourist visas.
Who can apply for 5-year UAE tourist visa?
The five-year multiple-entry tourist visa is available to all nationalities and does not require a UAE-based sponsor or host. Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements and provide supporting documents before submitting their application.
Requirements
Applicants must prepare the following documents:
• Recent passport-size photograph
• Passport valid for at least six months
• Six-month bank statement
• Valid health insurance covering the UAE
• Confirmed return or onward travel ticket
• Proof of a bank balance of at least US$4,000 (or equivalent) during the six months before applying
Applicants must also hold a passport or travel document that allows them to return to their country of residence or nationality.
How much does it cost?
According to GDRFA Dubai, the fees include:
• Application fee: Dh100
• Visa issuance fee: Dh500
• Refundable financial guarantee: Dh3,000
• Warranty service fee: Dh21
• Guarantee collection and refund fee: Dh20
• Knowledge fee: Dh10
• Innovation fee: Dh10
• Service fee: Dh52.50
Estimated total: Dh3,713.50
The total amount may vary depending on individual circumstances or additional requirements.
How to apply
Applicants can submit their application online or in person.
Online
Applications are available 24 hours a day through the official platforms of:
• GDRFA Dubai
• Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP)
The online process involves:
1. Log in using UAE Pass or your registered account.
2. Search for the five-year multiple-entry tourist visa service.
3. Complete the application form.
4. Upload the required documents.
5. Pay the applicable fees.
6. Submit the application.
In person
Applications may also be submitted through:
• GDRFA Customer Happiness Centres
• Amer Service Centres
Applicants should bring all required documents, obtain a queue number and complete payment after submitting the application.
Processing time
The expected processing time is 48 hours, provided all documents and requirements have been submitted correctly.
Important rules
Visa holders should note the following conditions:
• Stay in the UAE must not exceed 90 consecutive days, unless an extension is approved.
• The total stay must not exceed 180 days within a calendar year.
• Visitors should monitor their entry and exit records by requesting a travel report to ensure they do not overstay.
• If a visitor violates visa conditions or overstays, fines may be collected at the departure port and the Dh3,000 financial guarantee may be forfeited.
Quick guide: UAE 5-year multiple-entry tourist visa
Visa validity: 5 years
Sponsor required? No
Number of entries: Unlimited during validity
Stay per visit: Up to 90 days
Extension: One additional 90-day extension
Maximum stay per year: 180 days
Processing time: Approximately 48 hours
Documents required
• Passport valid for at least six months
• Passport-size photo
• Six-month bank statement
• Proof of at least $4,000 bank balance over the previous six months
• Valid UAE health insurance
• Return or onward ticket Estimated fees
• Visa and processing fees: Dh713.50
• Refundable guarantee: Dh3,000
Estimated total: Dh3,713.50
Where to apply
• GDRFA Dubai website and smart app
• ICP website and smart app
• GDRFA Customer Happiness Centres • Amer Service Centres
PIA/ICA/Expat Media
