The UAE remains one of the most visited destinations in the world — not just for its skyscrapers and beaches, but also for its flexibility in visa options. Yet for all the convenience of entering the country on a tourist visa, many visitors find themselves in a familiar position: needing more time. Whether for family, business exploration, or simple enjoyment, extending a tourist visa has become a routine part of staying longer.

But policy changes, cost implications, and multiple options have made the Tourist or Visit Visa extension process less straightforward than it seems. Overstaying can trigger daily fines. Grace periods have been revoked. And not every visa type qualifies for an in-country visa renewal.

This blog delivers a precise, up-to-date breakdown of how the UAE Government handles tourist visa extensions in 2025. No generic tips, only clearly defined rules, current procedures, and realistic options for travelers aiming to apply for an extension for legal stay.

Table of Contents

Understanding UAE Tourist or Visit Visas

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers various tourist visa options, each tailored to different travel needs. These visas are primarily categorized into single-entry and multiple-entry types, with specific durations and conditions.

Available Visa Durations

1. 30-Day Tourist Visa (Single Entry):
This visa permits a 30-day stay in the UAE. It can be extended twice, each time for an additional 30 days, without the need to exit the country.

2. 60-Day Tourist Visa (Single Entry):
Introduced to offer longer stays, this visa allows a 60-day visit and is also extendable twice for 30 days each, without leaving the UAE.

3. 5-Year Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa:
Designed for frequent travelers, this visa is valid for five years, allowing multiple entries. Each stay can last up to 90 days, with the possibility of extension for another 90 days, not exceeding 180 days in a year. Applicants must provide proof of a bank balance of $4,000 or its equivalent for the six months preceding the application. GDRFAD

Key Considerations

Visa-Free and Visa-on-Arrival Nationals: Citizens of certain countries may not require a pre-arranged visa. However, the extension policies for these visas can differ and should be verified based on nationality.
Entry Date Importance: The duration of stay is calculated from the actual date of entry into the UAE, not the visa issuance date. Misunderstanding this can lead to unintended overstays and associated penalties.
Extension Eligibility: While extensions are generally linked to the type of visa, specific conditions and eligibility criteria may vary. It’s essential to verify the terms associated with your visa category.

Understanding the specifics of your visa type is crucial, as it directly influences your stay duration, extension possibilities, and compliance with UAE immigration regulations.

Eligibility for Visit Visa Extension in Dubai, UAE

Not all UAE tourist visas are eligible for in-country extension. Eligibility depends on the visa type, issuance method, and the visitor’s current legal status.

1. Visa Types Eligible for In-Country Extension

The following visa categories can be extended from within the UAE:

30-day and 60-day tourist visas: Issued through UAE-based travel agencies, airlines, or directly via ICP/GDRFA portals.
Sponsored tourist visas: Arranged through relatives, friends, or hotels.
E-Visas: Obtained prior to arrival for nationalities not eligible for visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry.
These visas can typically be extended twice, each time for 30 days. After the second extension, travelers must exit the UAE or convert to another visa category.

2. Visa Types Not Eligible for In-Country Extension

Certain visa categories cannot be extended from within the UAE:

Transit visas (48-hour or 96-hour): Designed for short layovers and are non-renewable.
Visa-on-arrival entries: For nationals from countries like the US, UK, and EU, these visas often cannot be extended in-country and may require exit and re-entry.
GCC Residents Visa: Typically issued for short visits and may not be eligible for extension unless converted to another visa type.

3. Active Visa Status Required

Extensions can only be applied for if the current visa is valid and unexpired. Once a visa expires, the individual is considered out of status and must pay daily overstay fines before initiating any new visa process. Overstay days are tracked digitally by the UAE immigration system.

4. No Pending Legal or Immigration Issues

Applicants must not have:

Unpaid fines or unresolved immigration violations.
Ongoing legal cases related to immigration status.
Previous visa bans or unresolved overstays.

The ICP and GDRFA systems conduct background checks during the extension process to ensure compliance.

Steps to Extend Your Tourist Visa in Dubai, UAE

Extending a tourist visa in the UAE is a structured process. Adhering to the correct procedures ensures compliance with immigration regulations.

Confirm Visa Type and Extension Eligibility

Determine your visa category:

30-day or 60-day tourist visas: Typically issued through UAE-based travel agencies, airlines, or directly via ICP/GDRFA portals. These visas are eligible for in-country extensions.
Visa-on-arrival: Extension eligibility varies based on nationality and bilateral agreements. It’s essential to verify specific terms.

Use the ICP or GDRFA portals to check your visa status. You’ll need your Unified Number (UID) and passport details.

Gather Required Documentation

Prepare the following documents:

Valid passport copy (minimum six months validity)
Current visa copy
Recent passport-sized photograph (white background)
Valid travel health insurance
Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or tenancy contract)
Return flight ticket (may be required for certain extensions)

Ensure all documents are clear and in accepted formats (PDF or JPEG).

Choose Your Extension Method

Select one of the following channels:

ICP Smart Services Portal: For all Emirates except Dubai.
GDRFA Portal or Amer Centers: For visas issued in Dubai.
Licensed Typing Centers: Available across the UAE for assistance with form submissions and document uploads.

Pay the Applicable Extension Fees

The standard fee for a 30-day extension includes:

Application fee: AED 500
Knowledge Dirham: AED 10
Innovation Dirham: AED 10
Value Added Tax (5%)

Additional charges may apply for express processing or services at typing centers.

Receive Approval and Updated Visa

Processing typically takes 24 to 72 hours. Upon approval:

You’ll receive a PDF copy of your updated visa.
Your ICP/GDRFA profile will reflect the new validity.
Confirmation will be sent via SMS or email.

Note: No physical visa or new entry stamp is issued; all records are maintained digitally.

This process applies to both first-time and second extensions. After two extensions, further in-country renewals are not permitted.

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Visa Extension Fees and Processing Time

UAE visa extension costs and timelines vary by authority and application method.

1. Standard Extension Fees

Fee Component	Description	Amount (AED)
Application Fee	Main visa extension fee	500
Knowledge Dirham	Government fee	10
Innovation Dirham	Government innovation fund	10
Value Added Tax (5%)	Applied on total	30
Total	Approximate total cost	550

2. Additional Fees (If Applicable)

Service	Description	Fee Range (AED)
Express Processing	Faster processing time	100–150
Typing Center Assistance	For form filling and submission	25–50
Overstay Fine	Daily fine before extension is processed	50/day

3. Payment & Processing Time

Aspect	Details	Duration / Note
Payment Methods	ICP, GDRFA, Amer centers, or typing centers	Online or in-person
Refund Policy	No refund unless system/government error	Non-refundable
Standard Processing	Usual approval time	24–72 business hours
Peak Season Delay	May occur during holidays or high volume	Up to 5 business days
Express Processing	Faster service in select Emirates	6–12 hours
Visa Validity Update	No physical sticker; auto-update in immigration system	Electronic confirmation

Recent Updates in UAE Tourist Visa Extension Policies (2024–2025)

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has implemented several significant changes to its visa extension policies in 2024, directly impacting how tourists can prolong their stays.

Elimination of Grace Period

Previously, tourists were granted a 10-day grace period after their visa expired to regularize their status. This buffer has been officially removed. Overstaying now incurs immediate daily fines starting from the day after the visa expiry date. There are no exceptions for weekends or public holidays.

In-Country Extension Standardized

Tourists can now extend their visas from within the UAE without leaving the country. This policy applies to both 30-day and 60-day tourist visas. However, this extension can only be done twice, each for 30 additional days.

After utilizing the two extensions, travelers must either:

Exit and apply for a new visa, or
Convert to a different visa type (e.g., employment or long-term visa) through an authorized sponsor.

Specific Eligibility for Visa-on-Arrival Nationals

Not all visa holders qualify for extension. Visa-on-arrival nationals from countries like the US, UK, and EU have different terms based on bilateral agreements and may not follow the same extension rules. Their visa durations reset upon re-entry rather than through an in-country renewal.

Real-Time Fine Calculation System

The UAE has introduced a centralized system across immigration portals that calculates overstay fines in real time. Travelers can now check pending fines online via the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) or GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) portals before applying for any new visa or extension.

Overstay Penalties and Legal Implications

Overstaying a tourist visa in the UAE carries immediate financial penalties and potential legal consequences. The UAE’s immigration system automatically records overstays, and fines accrue from the first day beyond the visa’s validity.

1. Immediate Commencement of Fines

There is no grace period for tourist visa holders. Fines begin accruing the day after the visa expires, including weekends and public holidays.

Overstay Fine Structure:

Daily Fine: AED 50 per day
Exit Permit Fee: AED 250–350, payable upon departure

For example, overstaying by 5 days would result in a fine of AED 250 (5 days × AED 50) plus an exit permit fee of up to AED 350, totaling approximately AED 600.

2. Consequences of Non-Payment

Failure to settle overstay fines can lead to:

Travel Bans: Temporary or permanent bans from re-entering the UAE
Visa Application Denials: Future visa applications may be rejected
Detention or Deportation: In cases of prolonged overstay or repeated violations
Immigration Blacklisting: Which may affect entry into other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries

These penalties are enforced uniformly across all Emirates. Switching Emirates or applying through different portals does not circumvent these consequences.

3. Calculating and Paying Overstay Fines

Overstay fines are calculated automatically by the UAE’s immigration systems. To check and pay fines:

ICP Smart Services Portal: For all Emirates except Dubai
GDRFA Portal: For visas issued in Dubai

You’ll need your Unified Number (UID) and passport details to access your fine information. Fines must be paid in full before applying for a new visa or exiting the country.

Alternatives to Visa Extension

If you’ve utilized the maximum allowed in-country extensions for your UAE tourist visa or if your visa type doesn’t permit renewal, there are established alternatives to maintain legal status within the country.

1. Airport-to-Airport (A2A) Visa Change

The Airport-to-Airport (A2A) visa change is a widely used method for renewing a UAE tourist visa without a prolonged exit.

Process:

Depart from a UAE airport to a nearby country, such as Oman, Bahrain, or Kuwait.
Remain in the transit area of the destination airport.
A UAE-based travel agency processes a new tourist visa during your transit.
Return to the UAE on the same day with the new visa.

Considerations:

Pre-arrangement with a reputable visa agent is essential.
Costs typically range from AED 1,200 to AED 2,000, depending on destination and urgency.
Available primarily at major UAE airports with efficient processing facilities.

This method offers a swift solution for those needing to renew their visa without a lengthy departure from the UAE.

2. Exit and Re-Enter on a New Tourist Visa

Another option is to exit the UAE and apply for a new tourist visa before re-entry.

Process:

Travel to your home country or another destination.
Apply for a new UAE tourist visa through official channels or authorized travel agencies.
Upon approval, return to the UAE with the new visa.

Advantages:

Resets your stay duration, allowing for new extensions.
Potentially more cost-effective if planning an extended stay abroad.

Risks:

Re-entry is subject to approval; frequent exit and re-entry patterns may raise concerns with immigration authorities.

This approach is suitable for those planning to spend time outside the UAE before returning.

3. Conversion to Another Visa Category Within the UAE

If you’re transitioning to employment, business, or family residency, converting your tourist visa to another category is possible without exiting the UAE.

Common Conversions:

Tourist Visa to Employment Visa: Requires a job offer and company sponsorship.
Tourist Visa to Investor Visa: For individuals establishing a business in the UAE.
Tourist Visa to Family Residency: If being sponsored by a resident family member.

Requirements:

Valid passport and current visa.
Relevant supporting documents (e.g., employment contract, business license, proof of relationship).
Medical fitness test and Emirates ID registration.
Payment of applicable fees, which can range from AED 600 to AED 1,200, depending on the visa type.

This process must be conducted through official government channels, ensuring compliance with UAE immigration laws.

Tips for a Smooth Visa Extension Process

Extending your UAE tourist visa is straightforward, but even minor oversights can lead to delays, fines, or denial of services. Whether you’re planning a longer stay in Dubai or anywhere else in the UAE, following these best practices is essential if you need to extend your visa without complications.

Apply Early

Start your application at least 5 to 7 days before your current visa expires. While standard processing takes 1–3 business days, public holidays, weekends (Friday–Saturday), and peak travel seasons often cause delays. Submitting an extension request with less than 72 hours left may trigger urgent status flags and risk outright rejection.

Use the Correct Portal

For Dubai-issued visas: Use the GDRFA portal or visit an authorized Amer Center.
For other Emirates: Use the ICP Smart Services portal.

If you’re trying to extend your visa through the wrong platform, payment may be blocked or the application reset — a common but costly mistake.

Submit High-Quality Documents

All uploads must be high resolution and submitted in accepted formats (PDF or JPEG). Avoid using screenshots or poorly scanned documents. Low-quality images or outdated file types are one of the leading causes of delays in extension approvals.

Maintain Records

Keep a digital record of everything: payment confirmations, reference numbers, email receipts. If any issue arises during processing, these documents are your only verifiable proof. Immigration service centers cannot retrieve partially submitted applications without this evidence.

Verify Approval

Once your application is approved, log into the appropriate portal to confirm:

Your new visa validity and extended expiration date
That no pending fines remain
That the new visa PDF is available for download

Do not assume your visa has been extended just because payment went through. Unless the update is fully reflected in the system, you may still be classified as overstaying, especially if your current visa expires during that window.

Avoid Concurrent Applications

Submitting a new visa application while an extension is still pending often causes both to stall or be rejected. Wait for one process to fully complete before starting another. The system does not prioritize overlapping applications and may flag them as suspicious.

FAQS (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I extend my UAE tourist visa if I entered through a visa-on-arrival program?

Only some nationalities qualify. Most visa-on-arrival holders must exit and re-enter instead of extending in-country.

Can I apply for a visa extension on a Friday or public holiday in the UAE?

Yes, but processing won’t begin until the next business day. Apply early to avoid overstay risks.

What happens if I overstay while my extension is still under process?

If submitted before expiry, you won’t be fined — unless it’s later rejected or incomplete.

Can I extend my tourist visa more than twice if I switch Emirates?

No. The two-extension limit applies nationwide, regardless of which Emirate issued your visa.

Does holding a return ticket help get an extension approval?

Not required, but it can support your case, especially for second extensions or close-to-expiry cases.

Can I extend my UAE tourist visa if it has already expired?

No. You must first pay overstay fines before applying for a new visa or exiting the country.

Is medical insurance required for tourist visa extensions in the UAE?

Yes. Valid travel health insurance covering the extended stay is typically mandatory.

Can children and dependents also extend their tourist visas?

Yes, but their applications must be submitted individually and include guardian documentation if under 18.

Dubai Tourist Visa Extension 2025 | New Rules, Fees & Step-by-Step Guide