The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one of the most visited countries in the world — whether it’s Dubai’s luxurious skyline, Abu Dhabi’s cultural treasures, or the serene deserts of Sharjah. But before you pack your bags, it’s important to understand which visa you need: Tourist Visa or Visit Visa.
Though these terms are often used interchangeably, they serve different purposes, have different validity periods, entry requirements, and target audiences. In this guide brought to you by Super Dream UAE, we will break down the difference between these two visa types to help you decide which one is best suited for your travel needs.
A Tourist Visa is intended for individuals who wish to travel to the UAE for leisure, sightseeing, shopping, or attending events. This visa is mostly used by solo travelers, couples, or families looking to enjoy a vacation in Dubai or other emirates.
✔️ Key Features:
Issued for tourism only
Validity: 30 or 60 days
Can be single-entry or multiple-entry
Requires proof of hotel bookings, travel insurance, and return tickets
A Visit Visa is for people who are invited by family or friends living in the UAE. This visa is sponsored by a resident or sometimes a UAE-based organization. It’s ideal for visiting relatives, attending business meetings, or even exploring job opportunities informally.
✔️ Key Features:
Issued for visiting family or attending informal business
Validity: Up to 90 days
Can be extended from within the UAE
Requires sponsorship from a UAE resident or entity
| Feature | Tourist Visa | Visit Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Tourism, leisure | Visiting relatives, informal business |
| Sponsor Required? | No (can apply independently) | Yes (UAE resident or company sponsor) |
| Validity Period | 30 or 60 days | Up to 90 days |
| Extension Options | Limited | Can be extended in UAE |
| Documentation | Passport, photos, travel itinerary | Invitation letter, sponsor ID |
| Entry Type | Single or multiple entry | Usually single entry |
| Convertible to Work Visa | No | Not officially, but more flexible |
| Processing Time | 2-5 working days | 2-7 working days |
Let’s say you’re just planning a vacation in Dubai to explore the Burj Khalifa, go shopping in the Dubai Mall, and enjoy a desert safari — a Tourist Visa is your go-to.
But if your sister lives in Abu Dhabi and you’re visiting her for 2 months, a Visit Visa is more appropriate. It’s longer, and your stay will be more personal rather than touristy.
Likewise, if you’re a businessperson invited by a UAE-based partner to discuss an opportunity, you’ll need a Visit Visa sponsored by that company.
Valid for 30 or 60 days
Cannot be extended more than once
Strictly for non-business purposes
Valid for up to 90 days
Can be extended from within UAE by paying a fee
Allows informal business meetings
✅ Pro Tip: If you’re unsure how long you’ll stay, a Visit Visa gives more flexibility in extension and renewal.
Both visas come with strict rules. If you overstay:
Tourist Visa: AED 50 per day after the grace period
Visit Visa: AED 50–100 per day depending on the situation
Overstaying can result in a ban, making it harder to apply for a UAE visa in the future. Always keep track of your visa expiry date!
Choose a travel agency or UAE airline
Submit passport copy and photo
Pay the visa fee
Wait 2–5 working days
Your UAE sponsor applies on your behalf
Sponsor submits Emirates ID, salary proof, and tenancy contract
Visa is processed in 3–7 days
While Tourist Visas usually don’t allow conversion, Visit Visas may provide a chance to convert your status to a residence or employment visa — if you get hired or start a business.
However, this still depends on approval from UAE immigration.
Visa prices vary by travel agent, sponsor, and nationality. However:
| Visa Type | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Tourist Visa (30 Days) | 250–450 AED |
| Tourist Visa (60 Days) | 500–750 AED |
| Visit Visa (90 Days) | 800–1,200 AED |
Visit Visas may be slightly more expensive due to the added documentation and longer stay.
Passport with 6-month validity
Passport-size photo
Return flight booking
Hotel booking
Proof of funds
Invitation letter from UAE resident
Sponsor’s Emirates ID
Sponsor’s passport and visa copy
Tenancy contract (for sponsor)
Travel itinerary
Both visas are non-transferable
You must exit the country before expiry (unless extended)
Make sure to keep a copy of your visa during your stay
If visiting multiple emirates, no extra visa needed within UAE
When arriving in the UAE, immigration officers may:
Ask about your travel plans
Check your visa printout
Review hotel bookings or sponsor details
Be polite and prepared — UAE immigration is efficient but strict.
No. You are not legally allowed to work under these visas. You need a proper employment visa.
Only once, for 30 more days. Visit Visas have more extension options.
You must exit the country or apply for another visa.
Choosing between a UAE Tourist Visa and Visit Visa depends on:
Your purpose of travel
Length of stay
Who’s supporting your stay
At Super Dream UAE, we recommend:
Tourist Visa for short vacations or eve
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