Planning a long stay in Dubai for tourism, family visits, business meetings, or extended personal travel requires proper visa planning. Many travelers get confused about visa validity, entry rules, eligibility, and extension options, which often leads to mistakes, overstays, or rejected applications. A Dubai Long-Term Visit Visa is designed for travelers who want to stay in the UAE beyond short holiday durations without converting to a residence permit.

Dubai visit visas are entry permits issued by UAE authorities that allow foreign nationals to enter and stay in the country for a specific duration. The most important aspect to understand is the difference between visa validity and stay duration. Visa validity refers to the period within which you must enter the UAE, while stay duration refers to how long you are allowed to remain in the country after entry. Choosing the wrong visa type or misunderstanding these timelines can result in penalties or forced exit.

A long-term visit visa is ideal for people visiting relatives, exploring business opportunities, attending extended meetings, or staying in Dubai for leisure without employment. However, eligibility, nationality rules, and entry permissions vary, making professional guidance essential.

This guide explains everything you need to know about Dubai long-term visit visas—types, eligibility, requirements, risks, and the safest way to apply online.

What Is a Dubai Long-Term Visit Visa?

A Dubai Long-Term Visit Visa allows foreign nationals to legally enter and stay in the UAE for an extended period compared to standard short-term visit visas. It is suitable for non-employment purposes such as:

Long family visits
Extended tourism
Business meetings and conferences
Medical or personal stays

This visa does not permit employment or paid activities inside the UAE.

Types of Dubai Visit Visas Based on Stay Duration

Short-Term Dubai Visit Visa

Allows a stay of up to 30 days
Generally non-extendable
Suitable for short trips and tourism

Long-Term Dubai Visit Visa

Allows a stay of up to 90 days
Suitable for extended visits
Must exit before visa expiry to avoid penalties

Multiple-Entry Dubai Visit Visa

Allows multiple entries within the visa validity period
Each entry has a limited stay duration
Ideal for frequent travelers and business visitors

Read More About Long-Term Visas: 90 Days Single Entry Dubai Visa and 90 Days Multiple Entry Dubai Visa

Dubai Long-Term Visit Visa Validity and Stay Rules

Visa validity defines when you must enter the UAE
Stay duration begins from the date of entry
Overstaying results in fines and legal consequences
Exiting before expiry is mandatory unless a valid extension is approved

Dubai Visit Visa Eligibility by Nationality

GCC Citizens and Residents

GCC citizens do not require a visit visa
GCC residents may receive entry permission based on profession and residency status

Visa-on-Arrival Eligible Nationalities

Citizens of selected countries are eligible for visa-on-arrival with predefined stay limits. Extensions may require a separate application.

Other Nationalities Requiring a Sponsor

Travelers not eligible for visa-on-arrival must apply in advance through a sponsor such as:

Authorized travel agencies
Licensed visa service providers
UAE-based organizations

Dubai Long-Term Visit Visa Requirements

Valid passport with sufficient validity
Clear passport-size photograph
Confirmed travel details
Proof of funds (if required)
Security deposit for select nationalities (refundable)

Overstay Rules, Penalties, and Exit Conditions

Overstaying leads to daily fines
Long overstays can result in travel bans
Failure to exit on time may lead to detention
Penalties increase with each additional day

Strict compliance is essential to avoid legal trouble.

Extending Your Stay: Airport-to-Airport (A-to-A) Visa Option

If your visa is nearing expiry and you need more time, an Airport-to-Airport visa option allows you to exit the UAE briefly and re-enter with a new visit visa—subject to eligibility and approval.