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How to Apply for the Dubai Tourist Visa from the United States?

Last Updated : 03 May 2024

Atlys is Officially Authorized by Government of United Arab Emirates

30 seconds summary

US nationals travelling to Dubai can apply for the Dubai e-visa, which allows travellers to visit for tourism.

  • The Dubai visa for US citizens is an e-visa allowing you to apply online.

  • It does not require you to submit your passport and visit any Embassy for interviews.

Important Information

Visa type

Dubai tourist visa.

Dubai e-visa cost

Dubai e-visa processing time

The Dubai e-visa processing time takes 7 business days. With Atlys, you will receive your UAE visa within 6 days.

Dubai e-visa validity

Do US citizens need a visa for the UAE?

Yes. US citizens will need a valid visa to enter Dubai. The nation does not provide visa-free access to US passport holders, whether their visit is for tourism or business activities. 

US citizens can apply for the visa on arrival. However, it is strongly recommended to apply for an e-visa before travelling to Dubai, as the Visa on Arrival obtained at the port of entry may face the possibility of rejection.

One of the most convenient visa options is the e-visa, enabling applicants to complete the process online. US nationals can apply for the Dubai e-visa through Atlys or Airlines.

Do US Green Card Holders need a visa for Dubai?

Yes, green card holders must apply for the visa before their travel. Depending on your nationality, you get a visa on arrival if you have a valid US visa when traveling to Dubai. 

Dubai e-visa requirements for US citizens

If US citizens want to stay longer in Dubai, they must apply for a tourist visa. When applying for a Dubai visa for US citizens, having all the necessary documents with you is important. These include: 

  • Valid passport: Provide a scanned copy of the information page of your current passport displaying your photo and personal details. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months from your planned arrival date and has at least two blank pages.

  • Visa photo: Submit a recent digital passport-sized photo taken against a white background. Ensure that you face forward without wearing glasses.

Apply through Atlys for a Dubai visa, and effortlessly upload your necessary documents using the camera feature on your smartphone or laptop.

Dubai e-visa fees for US citizens

The Dubai visa fee for the short-term single entry visa is $90.

Remember, each airline, hotel, and visa agency has its own pricing structure. So, depending on where you apply, the Dubai visa fees might differ. 

The Dubai visa cost for US Nationals will be charged per the exchange rate on the day of the application.

Dubai visa application process for US citizens

Atlys wants to ensure that readers know exactly how to apply and their options. For the Dubai visa for US nationals, you can apply through Atlys or handle the application yourself.

Apply Through Atlys

Follow these steps to apply for your UAE visa for us citizens through Atlys:

  • Start application: Begin your dubai e-visa application journey by visiting Atlys.

  • Upload or take your photo: You can upload or take a new photo directly through the portal using your smartphone or laptop.

  • Provide your details: Fill in the required personal and travel information accurately.

  • Finalise and pay: Review your application, then proceed to checkout and pay the applicable visa fees.

Atlys ensures a hassle-free visa experience that allows you to focus on your trip instead of your visa.

Why choose Atlys

  • Dubai visa approval times are uncertain - often taking up to 7 working days. Atlys guarantees your visa in 6 days.

  • Atlys has tie-ups and public relations officers at Dubai Immigration to ensure that visas come on time.

  • You can apply for your entire family on Atlys in one go.

How to apply through the government website

The application process may differ depending on the airline you select. Here are the general steps typically followed when applying for a Dubai tourist visa for US citizens through airlines:

  • Visit the online portal: Navigate to the website of your chosen airline.

  • Book a flight ticket: Obtain a flight ticket, as it is a prerequisite for the visa application.

  • Initiate visa application: Access the "Manage Booking" section on the airline's website to start your visa application.

  • Complete the application form: Provide all necessary information, including personal details and trip specifics, to complete the application.

  • Document upload: Upload essential documents such as your passport, photo, and flight ticket during the application process.

  • Review information: Before submission, thoroughly review all provided details to ensure accuracy.

  • Payment of fees: Confirm and proceed with your visa application by paying the Dubai visa fee. A 5% surcharge for most international cards for AED transactions may apply.

  • Visa processing: Upon successfully paying the Dubai visa fees, the only remaining step is to wait to process your visa application.

This process may vary slightly depending on the airline, so it's advisable to follow the specific guidelines provided by the airline you choose. The application process is simple and straightforward when you apply through Atlys.

Additional documents to be submitted:

When submitting your application for the Dubai visa for US citizens through any other application portal except Atlys, you may be required to provide additional documents. These documents include

  • Travel insurance: Proving that the applicant has secured insurance for the planned trip.

  • Copy of confirmed flight booking: Proof of a booked and confirmed flight for the intended travel period.

  • Bank approval letter: A letter from the bank affirming financial approval or support for the visa application.

  • Proof of sufficient funds: Documents showing that the applicant has enough funds to cover expenses during the stay.

  • Clear passport copy of the sponsor: A clear copy of the passport of the person sponsoring or supporting the visa applicant.

  • Proof of payment: Evidence confirming payment of the visa application fee, often in the form of a payment receipt.

  • Completed visa application form: A fully filled-out visa application form with all required information provided.

Note that additional documents can be requested at any time. Do not expect that these be the only exact documents requested from you.

Tips to apply

  • Apply early: Start the visa application process well in advance to allow sufficient time for processing. Applying early reduces the risk of delays and ensures you have your visa before your intended travel date.

  • Accurate information: Provide accurate and consistent information throughout the application. Any discrepancies may lead to complications or delays in processing your Dubai visa.

  • Review documentation requirements: Before starting the application, familiarise yourself with all the required documents to ensure a smooth visa process.

  • Stay informed about fees: Be aware of the visa fees and any applicable surcharges. Ensure you have enough funds to cover the visa fees.

Receive your approved Dubai visa for US citizens

After submitting your visa application, it's crucial to allow for processing time. To ensure a smooth process, apply for your e-visa well in advance, providing ample time for processing.

Through Atlys:

Upon approval of your Dubai visa for US citizens, Atlys will notify you of its approval. You can download the e-visa and print a physical copy to carry with you during your travels.

Through the Airline:

Depending on which airline you used to apply, you can check your visa status to know when it’s approved or declined.  Once the visa is approved, print it out and carry it when you travel to Dubai. Upon arrival at Dubai airport, present your visa and passport to the immigration officer for entry into the country.

Dubai visa information for US citizens

How to check Dubai e-visa status

When you have applied for your Dubai visa for US citizens through an airline, you will be able to do a Dubai visa check through their website:

  • Go to the airline website: Visit the official website of the airline through which you applied for your Dubai visa as a US citizen.

  • Find the visa status section: Look for the section on the website dedicated to checking visa status. This may be labeled "Track Your Visa" or "Visa Status."

  • Provide necessary details: Enter the required information, such as your application number or passport number.

  • Submit a request: Submit your request to view the current status of your Dubai visa.

These steps might vary depending on which airline you applied through. 

Apply through Atlys and conveniently monitor your visa status using the Atlys app.

Dubai e-visa processing time

The Dubai visa processing time takes 7 working days for the government authorities to process your visa. However, when you apply through Atlys, the visa processing time is 6 days. 

Dubai e-visa validity & length of stay

The Dubai visa for US citizens is valid for a single entry and allows a stay of 30 days, with an overall validity of  60 days from the date of arrival.

There are different tourist visa options with different validities, lengths of stay, and permitted entries.

Our commitment to visa accuracy

The content in this blog is derived from official government sources, guaranteeing accuracy and reliability. While the information is trustworthy, staying informed is advisable, as changes may occur without prior notice.

Fees and procedures set by the government may undergo changes over time. We suggest checking the official website for the latest updates before initiating your application. This practice ensures you possess the most up-to-date information, contributing to a smoother visa application process.

What should I do if my Dubai tourist visa is rejected?

You can appeal your visa rejection and request the embassy to re-evaluate your visa application. You can apply again for your visa without making previous mistakes or apply for a Dubai tourist visa on arrival.

What if my UAE tourist visa expires while I am still in Dubai?

If you see that your Dubai visa is about to expire, you must apply for an extension. You must visit the ICP eChannel to extend your travel visa for Dubai. Or visit Emirates Commercial Visa Services, Dubai International Airport, Terminal 3- Arrival Area, Next to Boots Pharmacy.

What is the difference between a single-entry visa and a multiple-entry visa?

With a single-entry visa, you can only enter and exit the country once. In contrast, a multiple-entry visa allows you to enter and exit the country more than once. These different types of dubai visit visas have certain eligibility requirements. Be sure to check them before you apply.

How long can I stay in Dubai without a visa?

US nationals can stay for 30 days in Dubai without a Dubai tourist Visa as they can apply for the visa on arrival.

What are the types of Dubai visas?

There are several different types of Dubai visas that you can utilize. Each different type of Dubai visa can be applied for a specific purpose of visit or duration of stay. Some of the different visiting visas to Dubai for a stay are:

  • 48-hours Dubai visa: Travelers with a 48-hour stopover or layover in Dubai can apply for this visiting visa to Dubai.

  • 96-hour Dubai visa: Travelers with a 96-hour stopover or layover in Dubai can apply for this visiting visa to Dubai.

  • 14-day single entry visa: Travelers wishing to visit Dubai for a short trip can use this visa and stay there for a maximum of 14 days.

  • Short-term single entry visa: This tourist visa allows the holder to enter and exit Dubai once and stay for the duration of the visa's validity period, which is 30 days.

  • Short-term multiple entry visa: This tourist visa allows the holder to enter and exit Dubai multiple times during the validity of the visa, which is 30 days.

  • Long-term single entry visa: This tourist visa allows the holder to enter and exit Dubai once and stay for the duration of the visa's validity period, which is 90 days.

  • Long-term multiple entry visa: This tourist visa allows the holder to enter and exit Dubai multiple times during the validity of the visa, which is 90 days.

Can I extend my Dubai tourist visa?

Yes, some tourist visas can be extended. You can extend tourist visas for 30 days without leaving the country. You can apply for the second renewal before the expiry of the first one against AED 600 (approx. $163.36) for each renewal time.

Visa overstayers who do not renew will have to pay an AED 100 (approx. $27.23) fine for each day of their overstay, to be calculated 10 days after the visa expiry. However, recently, the news is that government officials have started rejecting visa renewal requests. This means you must leave the country and apply for another visa to stay in the UAE.

How can I extend my Dubai tourist visa?
What are the visa requirements for GCC Nationals?

The citizens of GCC countries (the Gulf Cooperation Council), which includes Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, do not require a visa to visit the UAE.

The GCC residents who are not national citizens but work as high-level officials such as doctors, managers, engineers, public sector employees, and their families can have a 30-day non-renewable visa at all the airports in the UAE upon arrival.

How to get a Dubai visa from USA?

What makes the Dubai visiting visa unique is that you can get your visit visa for Dubai through several methods. For example, you can get a tourist visa valid for 30 days, a service visa for 14 days, or even a visit visa from:

  • Atlys: If you want to apply for your Dubai visa without stressing too much about the requirements, Atlys is the way to go.

  • Airlines: If you are wondering how to apply for a tourist visa from Dubai from the USA, you can apply for a Dubai Tourist Visa through Airlines. Each airline has some conditions which you must meet for them to arrange your visa. One of the conditions is flying with them.

  • Hotels: Some hotels can apply for the visa on your behalf if you have a hotel booking with them.

  • Visa agents: This is quite straightforward; you can contact a registered travel agency if you wish to travel to Dubai and need a visa.

  • Government portals: You can request your family in the UAE to apply on government portals such as ICP or GDRFAD for your tourist visa for Dubai.

How can US citizens apply for Dubai tourist visas through airlines?

You can apply for your tourist visa through airlines such as:

  • Etihad Airways: Simply visit the website and click "Apply for UAE visa." This will redirect you to another website where you must choose the visa type you want to apply for. Then, fill out the application form, attach the required documents, and pay the application fees.

  • Emirates Airline: This service is only available to passengers with a confirmed Emirates booking where an Emirates ticket has already been issued. The flight itinerary includes the desired time in Dubai. The itinerary into and out of Dubai should be on one ticket (PNR), which must be an Emirates flight.

  • Fly Dubai: This can be a bit tricky. You can't necessarily apply for the visa online through their website like with the other airlines. Instead, you need to contact a nearby travel shop to see if they can help you with your Dubai Tourist Visa application. Unfortunately, only a few travel shops can help with your visa application for Dubai, so be sure you call to get all the relevant information.

  • Air Arabia: You can't apply online through the website. Instead, you need to contact the Air Arabia sales center near you. When you contact them, they'll tell you everything you need to know about applying for the Dubai Visiting Visa through Air Arabia.

What are the requirements for US citizens to obtain a visa on arrival?

US citizens who are valid passport holders don't need to get a visa beforehand to visit Dubai. They can get a visa on arrival at the airport if they meet the requirements.

The Dubai visit visa requirements for US citizens are as follows:

  • Valid passport: Valid for at least 6 months from the expected arrival time in the UAE.

  • Flight tickets: Confirmed round-trip or flight tickets to another destination.

The visa on arrival is available at the immigration counters upon landing at the UAE airports. With a VOA, you can stay in the UAE for 30 days. However, if you stay longer, you have to contact the immigration officer at the airport or the local immigration office in the UAE.

What factors can affect the processing time of a Dubai visa application?

The processing time of a Dubai visa application can be influenced by various factors, including:

  • Type of visa: Different types of visas may have varying processing times. For example, tourist, business, and long-term visas may have different processing timelines.

  • Application completeness: Ensuring your application is complete with all required documents can expedite the processing. Incomplete applications may result in delays.

  • Accuracy of information: Providing accurate and consistent information in your application is crucial. Any discrepancies or errors may require additional verification, causing delays.

  • Volume of applications: The overall number of visa applications received by the authorities can impact processing times. During peak seasons or high application volumes, processing may take longer.

  • Public holidays: Processing times may be affected by public holidays in the destination country. Applications submitted during holiday periods might experience delays.

Do I need to print my Dubai e-visa?

Yes, printing your Dubai e-visa and carrying a physical copy when you travel is advisable. A printed copy ensures that you have the necessary documentation readily available for inspection by immigration authorities upon arrival.

How can I check my Dubai visa status through Atlys?

To check the status of your Dubai visa, follow these simple steps:

  • Get the Atlys app: Download and install the Atlys mobile application on your device.

  • Navigate to "my documents": Open the app and scroll down to locate the "My Documents" section.

  • Find your Dubai visa: Inside the "My Documents" section, locate and identify your Dubai visa.

  • Access current status: Click on your visa entry to view and access its present status.

By following these steps, you can conveniently check the status of your Dubai visa using the Atlys app.

Which countries can get a Dubai visa on arrival for 30 days?

Andorra, Australia, Brunei, Canada, China, Hong Kong - China, Japan, Kazakhstan, Macau, Malaysia, Mauritius, Monaco, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, San Marino, Singapore, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States of America, and Vatican City.

Which countries can get a Dubai visa on arrival for 90 days?

Argentina, Austria, Bahamas Islands, Barbados, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, El Salvador, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Kiribati, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Maldives, Malta, Montenegro, Nauru, Netherlands, Norway, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russian Federation, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, San Marino, Serbia, Seychelles, Slovakia, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and Uruguay.

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