How to Get a 96-Hour Transit Visa in Dubai?

To obtain a 96-hour transit visa for Dubai (UAE), you must meet certain eligibility criteria and follow the application process. This type of visa is issued for travelers who are passing through the UAE and have a layover of at least 8 hours but not exceeding 96 hours. Here's how you can apply for a 96-hour transit visa:

1. Eligibility Requirements:

• Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into the UAE.

• Valid Tickets: You must have a valid onward flight ticket to a third country after your transit in Dubai (i.e., your destination must be outside the UAE).

• Layover Duration: The transit visa is only for passengers with a layover of at least 8 hours but not more than 96 hours.

2. Who Can Apply?

• Passengers of Emirates or FlyDubai: The 96-hour transit visa is often available to travelers flying with Emirates or FlyDubai, as these airlines are based in Dubai and can sponsor the visa.

• Passport holders of specific countries: Citizens from some countries may be eligible for a transit visa. It’s advisable to check with the airline or Dubai immigration authorities for the latest list of eligible countries.

• If you’re traveling with a different airline, your application for a transit visa may be subject to specific conditions, and you may need to apply through a travel agency or Dubai immigration services.

3. How to Apply for a 96-Hour Transit Visa:

Option 1: Through the Airline (Emirates or FlyDubai)

• Emirates Airlines and FlyDubai typically sponsor the 96-hour transit visa for travelers who have a layover of at least 8 hours in Dubai.

o Steps:

1. Book Your Flight: You must book a flight with either Emirates or FlyDubai, as they offer this visa service.

2. Request the Visa: You will need to request the 96-hour transit visa directly through the airline, either at the time of booking your flight or by contacting the airline’s customer service. The airline will process the visa application.

3. Documents: You’ll need to provide the following:

 A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity.

 A copy of your flight ticket showing onward travel to a third country.

 A passport-sized photograph.

4. Visa Fee: The visa fee for the 96-hour transit visa is typically around 100 to 150 AED (subject to change).

Option 2: Through a Travel Agency or Hotel

• If you are not flying with Emirates or FlyDubai, you can apply for a transit visa through a travel agency or hotel in Dubai that offers visa sponsorship. Some hotels in Dubai also assist with transit visas if you book a stay with them.

o You would need to provide the same documents and information as required by the airlines.

Option 3: Apply via Dubai Immigration (For Certain Situations)

• If you are not flying with Emirates or FlyDubai but need the 96-hour transit visa for a long layover, you may be able to apply directly through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or Dubai Immigration, but this method may involve more paperwork and additional requirements.

• This application is more commonly used for specific cases or travelers with special circumstances (such as emergency transit).

4. Conditions for the 96-Hour Transit Visa:

• Single Entry: The 96-hour transit visa is usually a single-entry visa. If you leave Dubai, you cannot re-enter on the same visa.

• No Extensions: The transit visa is not extendable beyond 96 hours. Once it expires, you must leave the UAE.

• Entry and Exit Rules: You can only stay in Dubai during the valid period and must exit the country once the visa period ends.

5. Additional Information:

• If you're staying in Dubai during your transit, the visa allows you to leave the airport and explore the city within the 96-hour window.

• You are allowed to stay in Dubai but cannot engage in employment or business activities.

Conclusion:

The 96-hour transit visa for Dubai is an option for travelers with layovers between 8 and 96 hours in Dubai. The easiest way to apply is through airlines like Emirates or FlyDubai, who handle the visa sponsorship process. Alternatively, you can apply through a travel agency or hotel if you're flying with other carriers. Always make sure to check with the airline or the relevant authorities for updated visa policies and procedures.