The United Arab Emirates has a number of government-issued purpose-specific visas. Visas include tourist visas, business visas, student visas, transit visas, electronic visas for GCC residents, and entry permits for patient and his/her companion entry permits.

Tourist visa: Tourist visas are valid for 30 and 90 days. For single and multiple entries. The visa can be extended twice within 30 days without leaving the country. Multiple entry visas can also be issued.

Business visa: Business visas are part of the Golden Visa system, allowing foreigners to obtain long-term visas for themselves and their dependents, making them attractive to companies and the country’s economic growth.

Student visa: A student visa is valid for students over the age of 18 studying at a university or college in the UAE. A long-term visa of 5 years is also valid for outstanding students.

Transit visa: The United Arab Emirates issues two types of transit visas, one is free for 48 hours and the other is AED 50 and valid for 96 hours. Transit visas are only sponsored by UAE based airlines and must be processed and approved prior to entry into the UAE. Neither type of transit visa can be extended.

E-Visa for GCC residents: GCC residents can apply online for a UAE entry visa. The visa is only valid for 30 days and can be extended once every 30 days.