Planning a trip to Dubai from the UK? One of the first questions is: how long does it take to get a Urgent Dubai visa? Whether you are a UK passport holder eligible for visa on arrival, or a UK resident with a BRP card who needs pre-approved entry, knowing the exact processing time helps avoid last-minute stress.
This guide breaks down Dubai visa processing times for UK residents in 2025, including normal applications, urgent fast-track services, and factors that can delay approval.
Who Needs a Dubai Visa from UK?
- UK passport holders → Eligible for visa on arrival in Dubai (30 days, extendable).
- UK residents with BRP cards (non-UK passport) → Need to apply for a pre-approved Dubai visa before travelling.
Since BRP holders form a large group (Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Nigerian, and other nationalities), the processing times below focus mainly on visa-required UK residents.
Normal Dubai Visa Processing Time from the UK
For most UK BRP holders applying online or through a visa agency:
- Standard processing: 3 to 5 working days after submission.
- 96-hour transit visa: 24–48 hours on average.
- 30-day or 60-day tourist visas: 3–5 working days.
Key Points to Note:
- UAE weekends are Saturday–Sunday, which can add extra days.
- Applications submitted before long holidays (Eid, Christmas, New Year) may take longer.
- Incomplete documents can delay processing.
Urgent Dubai Visa Processing from the UK
If you have last-minute travel plans, an express Dubai visa is available:
- Super urgent visa: 6–12 hours (same day approval).
- Urgent visa: 24 hours turnaround in most cases.
Extra Costs for Urgent Visas:
- Agencies charge additional service fees for fast processing.
- Costs depend on visa type (96-hour, 30-day, 60-day).
What Can Delay Your Dubai Visa?
Even with early application, these factors can slow down approval:
- Passport validity less than 6 months.
- Blurry or low-quality scanned documents.
- Previous overstays or unpaid fines in the UAE.
- Mismatch between BRP card and passport details.
- High-volume seasons (Eid holidays, school breaks, Christmas).
How to Check Your Dubai Visa Status from the UK
- Track visa status through the agency portal.
- Use GDRFA or ICP websites (official UAE systems).
- Receive status updates by email/SMS from your provider.
Tips to Speed Up Your Dubai Visa Application
- Apply at least 2–3 weeks in advance of your travel date.
- Choose an urgent service for last-minute travel.
- Double-check all documents (passport, BRP, flight details).
- Use a reliable visa agency like ApplyDubaiVisa.com to avoid delays.
Dubai Visa Processing Time: Normal vs. Urgent (UK Applicants)
| Visa Type | Standard Processing Time | Urgent / Express Processing Time | Notes |
| 96-hour Transit Visa | 24–48 hours | 6–12 hours | Best for short stopovers |
| 30-day Tourist Visa | 3–5 working days | 24 hours (same day possible) | Most popular visa type |
| 60-day Tourist Visa | 3–5 working days | 24–48 hours | Suitable for longer stays |
| Visa on Arrival (UK Passport Holders) | Immediate at Dubai airport | N/A | Valid for 30 days, extendable |
FAQs: Dubai Visa Processing Time from the UK
Q1. How long does a Dubai visa take if I apply from the UK?
- Usually 3–5 working days for standard applications.
Q2. Can I get a Dubai visa in 24 hours from the UK?
- Yes, through urgent / express visa services. Approval can be within 24 hours.
Q3. Do UK passport holders need to apply in advance?
- No, UK citizens get visa on arrival. Only BRP holders (non-UK passports) need pre-approved visas.
Q4. What if my Dubai visa is delayed?
- Contact your agency, check your documents, or opt for super urgent processing.
Q5. Can children traveling with BRP holders get visas faster?
- Yes, minor applications are processed along with the main application, but urgent options may still be applied individually.
Final Thoughts
For UK residents, a Dubai visa normally takes 3–5 working days, but urgent options can shorten it to 6–24 hours. Plan ahead, ensure your documents are complete, and use a trusted visa provider like ApplyDubaiVisa.com to make your Dubai trip hassle-free.
Visa query Form