Visitors in the UAE can extend their tourist visas without leaving the country, but there are specific rules, limits and costs to be aware of.
Tourist visas issued for Dubai and the wider UAE typically allow travellers to apply for 30-day or 60-day extensions. These extensions can usually be requested twice, allowing visitors to remain in the country for a longer stay.
Applications must be submitted before the visa expires, either through the original sponsor, travel agency, hotel or directly through the immigration authorities.
Dubai visa extension rules
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Extension type | 30-day or 60-day extensions |
| Maximum extensions | Up to 2 times |
| Application method | Travel agency, sponsor, hotel or immigration office |
| Authority | Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) |
| Application deadline | Must apply before visa expiry |
Visa duration limits
| Visa Type | Maximum Stay |
|---|---|
| Standard tourist visa | Up to 120 days including extensions |
| Long-term visit visas | Up to 180 days depending on visa type |
Cost of extending a Dubai tourist visa
Visa extensions come with government fees and service charges.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa extension fee | Around 600 AED |
| Approximate USD equivalent | About $230 |
| Additional service charges | May apply depending on agency |
Overstay fines in the UAE
Travellers who remain in the country after their visa expires without applying for an extension will face daily penalties.
| Violation | Fine |
|---|---|
| Overstaying visa | AED 50 per day |
In some situations, a 10-day grace period may apply before fines begin, but this depends on the visa category.
Non-extendable visas
Some types of permits cannot be extended, including:
-
Border entry permits
-
Truck driver permits
-
Certain specialised work permits
If travellers reach the maximum extension limit, they must leave the UAE and apply for a new visa before returning.
Understanding the visa extension rules can help visitors plan longer stays in Dubai while avoiding penalties and unnecessary travel interruptions.
