At the Dubai International Airport. Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

Travel experts in the UAE are urging visit visa holders to extend their current visas instead of opting for airport-to-airport visa changes, amid stricter visit visa application requirements introduced recently. The updated rules now require visit visa applicants to submit confirmed round-trip tickets, proof of accommodation, and proof of funds amounting to at least Dh3,000. These documents must be submitted during the application process, according to travel agents who spoke to Expat Media. “These requirements are designed to ensure that visitors have a clear plan and the financial means to sustain their stay,” said Ellanie Villena, owner of Angel Wings International Tourism, in an interview with Expat Media. The new rules have left some travelers stranded in neighboring countries like Oman and Bahrain after being denied fresh visas upon exiting the UAE. “We’ve seen several cases where travelers were unable to re-enter the country due to incomplete documentation or visa rejections,” Dhaniella Ramirez of Abu Dhabi-based Lucky Charms Travels, told Expat Media. Geoffrey Salatan, CEO of Dubai-based Geof Travel, told Expat Media that many of those who exited the country for a visa change in recent days “faced rejections and ended up stranded at airports, even after reapplying for new visas.” For those nearing the expiration of their visas, an extension within the UAE is recommended. “While it costs around Dh1,300, extending the visa locally provides security and immediate approval,” said Ramirez of Lucky Charms Travels. “For passengers with visas nearing expiration, I strongly recommend requesting a 30-day extension without leaving the country,” Salatan of Geof Travel advised. Currently, visit visas are valid for 60 days and an extension grants a 30-day extended stay in the UAE. The tightening of regulations follows reports of individuals repeatedly using visit visas without transitioning to residency permits. “Travelers should avoid misuse and carefully adhere to these updated guidelines to avoid complications,” Villena emphasized. Travel agents noted that specific requirements might vary based on visa type, nationality or the application method. They advised travelers to stay updated through official channels to avoid unexpected issues. PIA/Expat Media ALSO READ: New UAE visit visa application requirements
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