Visa News

What are the new rules for visit visa in UAE in 2024?

What are the new rules for visit visa in UAE in 2024? The UAE, known for its rapid growth and visitor-friendly policies, has revised its visit visa regulations in 2024, enhancing the experience for tourists, business travelers, and those visiting family. Understanding these new rules is crucial for anyone planning a trip to the UAE, as they offer more flexibility in terms of visa extensions and stay duration. This article will provide a detailed overview of the new visit visa policies, the process for extensions, and how to make the most of your stay in the UAE.

UAE Visit Visa Options in 2024

In 2024, the UAE offers two primary types of short-term visit visas:

30-Day Visit Visa
60-Day Visit Visa

These visas allow visitors to explore the UAE for either a month or two, depending on their choice. With the latest changes, travelers have more options to extend their stay, making it easier to enjoy the country without needing to leave and re-enter.

Visa Type	Duration	Extension Period	Total Maximum Duration
30-Day Visit Visa	30 days	60 days	Up to 90 days
60-Day Visit Visa	60 days	60 days	Up to 120 days

Updates to the UAE Visit Visa in 2024

The major changes in the UAE’s visit visa policy revolve around extension options and in-country renewals, both of which significantly benefit visitors. Here’s a breakdown of these updates:

Extended Visa Duration with In-Country Extension

Under the new policy, travelers holding either a 30-day or 60-day visit visa can now extend their stay by an additional 60 days. This can be done within the UAE, eliminating the need to exit the country to renew their visa.
For example, someone with a 30-day visa can apply for a 60-day extension from within the UAE, allowing for a total stay of up to 90 days. The same applies to the 60-day visit visa, which can be extended for an additional 60 days, totaling up to 120 days of stay.

Reinstated In-Country Visit Visa Extension

The in-country extension policy has been reinstated, which is highly convenient for visitors, especially those who wish to extend their stay for personal or professional reasons.
By opting for an in-country extension, travelers avoid the time and expense of leaving and re-entering the UAE to renew their visa.

Requirements and Process for Extending a UAE Visit Visa

To extend a UAE visit visa within the country, certain requirements and steps must be followed. Let’s take a closer look at these:

Required Documents for Extension

Passport with at least six months of validity.
Recent passport-sized photograph of the applicant.
Visa application form (available online or at authorized centers).
Payment for the visa extension fee (varies by visa type).

Step-by-Step Process to Extend Your Visa

Visit a Typing Center or Authorized Government Website: Applicants can start their visa extension process at authorized typing centers or through government portals such as the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website.
Submit Necessary Documents: The required documents must be submitted, either physically at the typing center or digitally via the online portal. Ensure that all information provided is accurate and matches official records.
Pay the Visa Extension Fee: The visa extension fee is required to proceed with the application. It is advisable to check the latest fees on official UAE government websites, as these may vary.
Receive Confirmation: Once the extension is processed, applicants will receive a confirmation email or SMS. Upon successful processing, the extended visa period will be reflected in official records, allowing the traveler to remain in the UAE legally.

Extension Step	Details
Step 1: Visit Typing Center or Website	Start application process through authorized channels
Step 2: Submit Documents	Submit passport, photo, form, and other required documents
Step 3: Pay Extension Fee	Complete payment for the visa extension fee
Step 4: Receive Confirmation	Await SMS or email confirmation of the successful visa extension

Cost of UAE Visit Visa Extensions in 2024

Visa extension costs are typically based on the type of visa and duration of the extension. The UAE government revises these fees periodically, so it’s important to consult the official portals for the latest information. Below is a general estimate of extension costs:

Visa Type	Extension Duration	Estimated Fee
30-Day Visit Visa	Additional 60 days	AED 600 – AED 800
60-Day Visit Visa	Additional 60 days	AED 800 – AED 1000

Benefits of the New Visit Visa Policies

The updated visit visa policies offer a range of benefits for travelers:

Increased Flexibility: Travelers no longer need to leave the UAE to extend their visa, allowing them to enjoy their visit without interruptions.
Cost Efficiency: The in-country extension process saves travelers money, as they avoid travel costs associated with visa renewal trips.
Enhanced Convenience for Family Visits and Business Travelers: With the extended visa durations, visitors can make the most of their time in the UAE, whether they’re visiting family or conducting business.

Planning Your Stay in the UAE

With the flexibility of the new visa rules, visitors can make the most of their time in the UAE. Here are some must-see attractions:

Burj Khalifa: The world’s tallest building offers breathtaking views of Dubai’s skyline.
Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: This architectural marvel is a must-visit for those interested in Islamic art and culture.
Desert Safari Experiences: Enjoy a thrilling desert safari that includes dune bashing, camel rides, and traditional Emirati entertainment.
Shopping Malls and Markets: The UAE is famous for luxury shopping. Visitors can explore high-end malls in Dubai or traditional souks in Sharjah and Abu Dhabi.

Conclusion

The updated UAE visit visa rules for 2024 provide enhanced convenience and flexibility for tourists and visitors. By understanding the new policies and planning your extension in advance, you can enjoy a seamless stay and explore the UAE’s diverse culture, attractions, and lifestyle. Always refer to official UAE government websites or consult an immigration expert for the latest visa information to ensure a hassle-free experience.