Planning a trip to Dubai in 2025? One of the first steps is securing a UAE tourist visa—but with so many platforms offering the same service, travelers often ask: Who offers the best price and value—online portals, travel agents, or airlines?
In this guide, we break down the Dubai visa fees across these three main channels, what’s included in each, and which one is right for your needs. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent flyer, this comparison will help you make an informed decision.
1. Online Visa Portals prices
Average Visa Price (30 days): AED 370–450
Express Processing (24–48 hrs): AED 650–770
Pros:
- Transparent pricing
- Faster processing
- 100% online application
- Dedicated customer support via chat/WhatsApp/email
Cons:
- Requires you to upload all documents yourself
- Some websites are not UAE-based, which can cause delays
Best For:
- Tech-savvy travelers who want full control over their application
- Urgent travelers who need express service
Recommended: Use trusted UAE-based platforms like ApplyDubaiVisa.com for fast and accurate processing.
2. Travel Agencies (Local or In-Country)
Average Visa Price (30 days): AED 450–600
Service Fees: Often 20–30% markup over base visa price
Pros:
- Can assist with flight bookings, hotel reservations, and insurance
- Offer offline support, especially for non-tech users
Cons:
- May not have direct access to UAE immigration portals (they forward to another agent)
- Higher prices due to commission and admin charges
- Slower updates on visa status
Best For:
- Travelers who prefer face-to-face assistance or need help with the full itinerary
- People unfamiliar with online visa systems
3. Airlines (Emirates, Fly Dubai, Etihad)
Average Visa Price (30 days): AED 350–450
Available For: Passengers with confirmed round-trip tickets on that airline
Pros:
- Streamlined visa + flight bundle
- Often cheaper than travel agents
- Trusted brand backing the visa process
Cons:
- Limited flexibility (visa tied to ticket)
- No express or urgent visa options
- No dedicated support if visa is delayed or rejected
Best For:
- One-time travelers booking round-trip flights with the same airline
- Those who want a simple, bundled solution
Final Comparison Table
| Platform | Price Range (30 days) | Processing Time | Best For | Extra Services |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online Portals | AED 370–450 | 2–4 days (Express: 24–48 hrs) | Fast, independent travelers | Chat support, express options |
| Travel Agents | AED 450–600 | 3–7 days | Non-tech users, bundled trips | Flights, hotels, insurance |
| Airlines | AED 350–450 | 4–6 days | Airline passengers only | Limited to ticket holders |
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for the fastest and most cost-effective visa solution, online portals—especially UAE-based ones—tend to be the best option in 2025. You get better transparency, faster service, and usually lower overall cost than traditional travel agents.
To check up-to-date visa fees or start your application, visit our trusted fee guide at ApplyDubaiVisa.com.