What is a Transit Visa?
A Dubai transit visa is a short-stay visa designed for travelers passing through the UAE on their way to another destination. This airport transit visa allows passengers with connecting flights to leave the airport and explore Dubai during their layover. Whether you need a visa for connecting flights or want to experience the city during a brief stopover, transit visas offer the perfect solution.
When Do You Need a Transit Visa?
Understanding when a transit visa is required is crucial for smooth travel planning. You need a UAE transit visa in the following situations:
Mandatory Transit Visa Scenarios:
1. Long Layover (More Than 8 Hours) If your connecting flight has a layover exceeding 8 hours in Dubai, you’ll need a transit visa to leave the airport and explore the city or rest at a hotel.
2. Different Dubai Terminals Even if your layover is less than 8 hours, you need a transit visa when your connecting flights arrive and depart from different terminals at Dubai Airport and you need to exit immigration.
3. Self-Transfer Tickets (Baggage Collection Required) If you have separate tickets (not a through-ticket) and need to collect your baggage and re-check it for your connecting flight, you require a transit visa regardless of layover duration, even if it’s less than 8 hours.
Important: In all three scenarios above, you must obtain a transit visa before your travel. White Sky Travel processes transit visas efficiently within 24-48 hours to ensure your travel plans proceed smoothly.
Types of UAE Transit Visas
The UAE offers two main types of transit visas to accommodate different layover durations:
48 Hours Transit Visa
The 48 hours transit visa is ideal for travelers with shorter layovers who want to briefly explore Dubai or rest between flights. This short stay visa provides enough time to visit key attractions, rest at a hotel, or handle business meetings before continuing your journey.
Key Features:
- Valid for 48 hours from entry
- Single entry only
- Perfect for brief layovers
- Quick processing time
- Allows airport exit during connection
96 Hours Transit Visa
The 96 hours transit visa offers extended time for passengers who want to explore the UAE more thoroughly during their layover. This layover visa gives you four full days to experience Dubai’s attractions, culture, and hospitality.
Key Features:
- Valid for 96 hours (4 days) from entry
- Single entry visa
- Ideal for longer layovers
- Comprehensive exploration time
- Suitable for leisure and business purposes
Transit Visa Requirements
Understanding transit visa requirements ensures a smooth application process. Here are the essential documents and conditions needed:
General Requirements for Both Visa Types
Mandatory Documents:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity from entry date)
- Passport copy (bio page)
- Passport back cover copy
- Confirmed flight ticket showing connection through Dubai airport
- Valid visa or entry permission for third country (destination)
- Recent passport-size color photograph (white background) – ICP specifications
- Copy of confirmed hotel reservation in UAE (recommended)
Transit Visa Conditions:
- Flight booking must show connecting flight through Dubai airport
- Passport must have blank pages for stamps
- Valid visa for final destination country required
- All documents must be clear and legible
Eligibility Criteria
The transit visa application is available to citizens of all nationalities who are traveling through the UAE to reach their final destination. However, specific transit visa rules may apply based on your nationality and travel documentation.
Transit Visa Fees
Transit visa fees vary depending on the type and duration of your layover visa:
48 Hours Transit Visa Fees
- Complete visa fee: AED 250
- All service charges included
- No hidden charges
- UAE residents can pay for family/friends with Tabby or Tamara installment plans
96 Hours Transit Visa Fees
- Complete visa fee: AED 360
- All service charges included
- No hidden charges
- UAE residents can pay for family/friends with Tabby and Tamara installment options
Note: All prices are inclusive of processing and service charges. UAE residents can conveniently pay for their family or friends using Tabby and Tamara installment plans. Contact White Sky Travel for any queries.
Transit Visa Processing Time
The transit visa processing time is typically fast to accommodate travelers’ tight schedules:
- Standard Processing: 24-48 hours
- Express Processing: 12-24 hours (additional fees apply)
- Application submission: Can be done 1-2 weeks before travel
For urgent requirements, White Sky Travel offers expedited transit visa process services to ensure you receive your approval in time for your connecting flights.
Transit Visa Application Process
Follow this straightforward transit visa application process to secure your layover visa:
Step 1: Document Preparation
Gather all required documents including passport copy, photograph, flight tickets, and hotel booking confirmation.
Step 2: Online Application
Submit your transit visa information through White Sky Travel’s streamlined application system. Our team handles all immigration formalities on your behalf.
Step 3: Payment
Complete payment securely using traditional methods or convenient installment options through Tabby and Tamara.
Step 4: Processing
Your application enters the transit visa process, where our experienced team coordinates with UAE immigration authorities.
Step 5: Approval & Delivery
Receive your approved transit visa via email, typically within 24-48 hours. Print the visa to present at immigration upon arrival.
Transit Visa Duration and Validity
Understanding transit visa duration helps you plan your layover effectively:
- 48-Hour Visa: Begins from your arrival time and expires exactly 48 hours later
- 96-Hour Visa: Valid for four complete days from entry
- Entry Period: Both visas are single-entry and must be used for the intended travel dates
- Extension: Transit visas generally cannot be extended; plan your itinerary accordingly
Transit Visa Rules and Regulations
Adhering to transit visa rules ensures compliance and a hassle-free experience:
Important Regulations
During Your Stay:
- Must depart UAE before visa expiry
- Cannot apply for visa extension or status change
- Must possess valid onward flight ticket throughout stay
- Required to maintain travel insurance validity
- Must stay within UAE during transit period
Prohibited Activities:
- Cannot seek employment during transit
- Cannot overstay visa validity period
- Must not engage in unauthorized business activities
- Cannot sponsor others while on transit visa
Departure Requirements:
- Must exit through UAE airport before visa expiry
- Carry all travel documents for departure
- Present confirmed onward flight booking at immigration
What to Do During Your Layover in UAE
Make the most of your short stay visa by exploring these popular attractions:
Must-Visit Destinations
For 48 Hours Transit:
- Burj Khalifa observation deck
- Dubai Mall and Dubai Fountain
- Jumeirah Beach walk
- Quick city tour
- Traditional souks visit
For 96 Hours Transit:
- All 48-hour attractions plus:
- Desert safari experience
- Dubai Marina and JBR walk
- Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis
- Old Dubai heritage sites
- Abu Dhabi day trip (including Sheikh Zayed Mosque)
White Sky Travel offers customized UAE attraction packages perfect for transit passengers.
Benefits of Choosing White Sky Travel for Transit Visa
Why Book Your Visa for Connecting Flights with Us:
✓ Fast Processing: Efficient handling ensures quick transit visa processing time
✓ Expert Guidance: Complete transit visa information and support throughout
✓ Flexible Payments: UAE residents can pay for family and friends with Tabby and Tamara in convenient installments
✓ Transparent Pricing: AED 250 for 48 hours, AED 360 for 96 hours – all inclusive with no hidden charges
✓ Comprehensive Service: From application to approval, we handle everything
✓ 24/7 Support: Round-the-clock assistance for urgent queries
✓ Additional Services: Hotel bookings, airport transfers, and tour packages available
Additional Services for Transit Passengers
Enhance your layover experience with our complete travel services:
Hotel Bookings
- Airport hotels for quick rest
- City center accommodations for exploration
- Flexible booking options
- Special rates for transit passengers
Airport Transfers
- Private car services
- Shared shuttle options
- Meet and greet services
- Luggage assistance
Tour Packages
- Half-day city tours
- Evening desert safaris
- Cultural experiences
- Shopping tours
Travel Insurance
- Comprehensive coverage
- Medical emergency protection
- Trip interruption coverage
- Baggage protection
All services available with Tabby and Tamara payment options
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a transit visa for layover?
A transit visa for layover is a short-term visa that allows travelers with connecting flights to leave the airport and explore the UAE during their stopover. It’s specifically designed for passengers in transit to another country.
How long is the transit visa valid?
Transit visa validity depends on the type: the 48 hours transit visa is valid for 2 days, while the 96 hours transit visa is valid for 4 days from your entry into the UAE.
What are the main transit visa requirements?
Essential transit visa requirements include a valid passport (6 months validity), confirmed onward flight ticket, passport photograph, hotel booking, and proof of travel to a third country.
Can I extend my transit visa once I’m in the UAE?
No, transit visas cannot be extended under any circumstances. You must depart the UAE before your visa expires. Plan your transit visa duration carefully when applying and ensure your connecting flight is within the visa validity period.
What are the transit visa fees for UAE?
Transit visa fees are AED 250 for 48 hours and AED 360 for 96 hours, with all service charges included and no hidden charges. UAE residents can conveniently pay for their family or friends using Tabby and Tamara installment plans.
How long does transit visa processing take?
Standard transit visa processing time is 24-48 hours. Express processing is available in 12-24 hours for urgent requirements with additional fees.
Do I need a transit visa if I’m not leaving the airport?
If you’re staying within the airport transit area and not exiting through immigration, you typically don’t need a transit visa. However, if you want to explore Dubai or leave the airport, you’ll need an airport transit visa.
When exactly do I need a transit visa for Dubai?
You need a transit visa in these specific situations:
(1) Layover exceeding 8 hours,
(2) Connecting flights using different terminals at Dubai Airport even if less than 8 hours,
(3) Self-transfer tickets requiring you to collect and re-check baggage, even if your layover is less than 8 hours.
In all these cases, a transit visa is mandatory.
Is travel insurance mandatory for transit visa?
While not always mandatory, travel insurance is highly recommended for transit visa holders to cover medical emergencies, trip interruptions, and other unforeseen circumstances.
Can I visit Abu Dhabi on a Dubai transit visa?
Yes, UAE transit visas allow travel throughout all Emirates. You can visit Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or other emirates during your valid transit period.
Can I book hotels and tours with installment payments?
Yes! White Sky Travel offers flexible payment options through Tabby and Tamara for all services including transit visas, hotel bookings, tours, and attraction tickets.
Transit Visa Information Summary
| Feature | 48 Hours Transit Visa | 96 Hours Transit Visa |
| Validity | 2 days | 4 days |
| Fees | AED 250 (all inclusive) | AED 360 (all inclusive) |
| Processing Time | 24-48 hours | 24-48 hours |
| Entry Type | Single entry | Single entry |
| Best For | Quick stopover | Extended exploration |
| Extendable | No | No |
Transit Visa Conditions Checklist
Before applying, ensure you meet these transit visa conditions:
- ☑ Passport valid for minimum 6 months
- ☑ Passport copy (bio page) available
- ☑ Passport back cover copy ready
- ☑ Confirmed flight ticket showing connection through Dubai airport
- ☑ Valid visa for third country (destination)
- ☑ Recent passport-size photograph with white background
- ☑ Hotel reservation in UAE (recommended)
- ☑ Understanding of when transit visa is required (8+ hours layover, different terminals, or self-transfer tickets)
Start Your Transit Visa Application
Make your UAE layover memorable with a hassle-free transit visa from White Sky Travel. Whether you need a short stay visa for 48 hours or prefer the extended 96 hours option, we handle the complete visa for connecting flights process efficiently.
Contact White Sky Travel
Location: Room 202, Royal Class Building, Dubai Investment Park 1, Dubai, UAE
WhatsApp:
- +971 4220 2133
- +971 52 292 1011
Services Available:
- Transit visa application (48 & 96 hours)
- UAE tourist visa and renewal services
- Hotel bookings across UAE
- Flight reservations
- UAE attraction tickets
- Tour packages (inbound & outbound)
- Travel insurance
- Airport transfers
Payment Options: All services available with flexible Tabby and Tamara installment plans
Why Choose Us for Your Layover Visa
Expert Transit Visa Processing: With years of experience handling visa for connecting flights, White Sky Travel understands the time-sensitive nature of transit applications. Our streamlined transit visa process ensures you receive approvals quickly and accurately.
Transparent Pricing: Clear information about transit visa fees with no hidden charges. What you see is what you pay, with the added flexibility of Tabby and Tamara payments.
Complete Support: From initial consultation to visa approval, our team provides comprehensive transit visa information and guidance at every step.
Additional Travel Services: Beyond visas, we offer complete travel solutions including hotel bookings, tours, and attraction packages specifically designed for layover passengers.
Plan Your Dubai Layover Today
Don’t let visa concerns limit your travel plans. Whether you’re looking for quick airport transit visa processing or detailed transit visa information, White Sky Travel is your trusted partner for seamless UAE transit experiences.
Get started with your transit visa application today!
Contact us via WhatsApp at +971 4220 2133 or +971 52 292 1011 for immediate assistance. Our visa specialists are ready to help you navigate transit visa rules, requirements, and the complete application process.
Remember: Apply for your transit visa well in advance to ensure smooth processing and avoid last-minute complications. With White Sky Travel’s efficient services and flexible Tabby and Tamara payment options, securing your layover visa has never been easier.
