How to Apply Dubai Visa from the UK

Travellers living in the United Kingdom may need to apply for a Dubai visit visa before travelling,
depending on their passport nationality. While some passport holders are eligible for visa on arrival,
many UK residents travelling on non-UK passports must obtain an approved Dubai visa in advance.

This 2026 guide explains how to apply for a Dubai visa from the UK, including visa types, fees in AED and GBP,
required documents, processing timelines, and common notes that UK residents should know before booking travel.

Dubai Entry Rules for UK Residents

Dubai visa eligibility is determined by passport nationality, not by UK residence status.
Holding a UK visa, BRP, or residence permit does not automatically grant visa-free entry to the UAE.

If your nationality requires advance approval, you must secure your Dubai visit visa before departure.
Airlines may verify your approved e-visa at check-in where pre-approval is required.

Passport Nationalities Commonly Applying from the UK

UK residents applying for Dubai visit visas come from many passport nationalities. The examples below are commonly seen among
UK residents who apply for Dubai visit visas (this is not a complete list):

  • India
  • Pakistan
  • Bangladesh
  • Sri Lanka
  • Nepal
  • Philippines
  • Nigeria
  • Ghana
  • Kenya
  • Uganda
  • South Africa
  • Egypt
  • Morocco
  • Algeria
  • Tunisia
  • Jordan
  • Lebanon

Supporting document requests and review requirements can vary by passport nationality.
UK residence proof is used as supporting evidence when applying from the UK, but approval is assessed based on the passport held.

UK Residence Types (Examples)

When applying from the UK, applicants usually submit proof of legal residence in the United Kingdom. Common UK residence types include:
Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), Skilled Worker visa, Student visa,
Family or Spouse visa, Dependent visa, and Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

Dubai Visit Visa Types Available from the UK

Single Entry Visit Visas

Single entry visas allow entry into the UAE once. After the traveller exits the UAE, the visa expires even if the full stay duration was not used.

14-Day Tourist Visa
Used for short visits such as brief holidays, quick family visits, or urgent travel.

30-Day Tourist Visa
Commonly selected for leisure travel, shopping, and visiting relatives.

60-Day Tourist Visa
Suitable for longer stays and extended visits within the UAE.

Multiple Entry Visit Visas

Multiple entry visas allow travellers to enter and exit the UAE multiple times during the approved validity period, subject to visa conditions.

30-Day Multiple Entry Visa
Multiple entries and exits during a 30-day validity period (subject to conditions).

60-Day Multiple Entry Visa
Multiple entries and exits during a 60-day validity period (subject to conditions).

Note: Visit visas are issued with a limited entry validity period from the date of approval. Exact validity and conditions depend on the visa type.

Dubai Visa Fees from the UK – 2026 (AED & GBP)

The tables below show a fee reference for Dubai visit visas when applying from the UK in 2026.
GBP values are approximate for easy understanding and may vary with exchange rates.

Single Entry Visa Charges

Visa TypeFee (AED)Approx. Fee (GBP)Processing TimeStay Duration
14-Day Single Entry375≈ £772–3 working days14 days
30-Day Single Entry400≈ £822–3 working days30 days
60-Day Single Entry600≈ £1232–3 working days60 days
30-Day Express520≈ £1071 working day30 days
60-Day Express850≈ £1741 working day60 days

Multiple Entry Visa Charges

Visa TypeFee (AED)Approx. Fee (GBP)Processing TimeValidity
30-Day Multiple Entry800≈ £1642–3 working days30 days
60-Day Multiple Entry1200≈ £2462–3 working days60 days

Single Entry vs Multiple Entry – Practical Difference

Single Entry: The visa expires once the traveller exits the UAE.
Multiple Entry: Allows repeated entry during the approved validity period.

Documents Required to Apply Dubai Visa from the UK

Applicants applying from the UK generally submit the following documents:

  • Valid Passport
    • At least 6 months validity
    • Clear colour scan of the bio-data page
  • Recent Passport Photograph
    • Colour photo with plain background
    • Face clearly visible
  • UK Residence Proof
    • Valid proof of legal residence in the UK (e.g., BRP/visa/ILR)
    • Must be valid at the time of application

Flight Ticket and Hotel Booking Timing

In many cases, travellers can submit a Dubai visa application first and confirm flight tickets and accommodation after visa approval.
However, supporting documents may be requested during review depending on the application and passport nationality.

Additional Documents

UAE immigration may request additional supporting documents for certain applications during the review process.
These requests are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

How to Apply Dubai Visa from the UK

  • Select the visa type based on your travel plan
  • Complete the application form with passport details
  • Upload required documents (passport, photo, UK residence proof)
  • Submit the application for processing
  • Receive the approved Dubai e-visa by email

Dubai Visa Processing Time for UK Applicants

Standard processing: 2–3 working days
Express processing: 1 working day (where applicable)

It is recommended to apply at least 7 days before travel to allow time for verification and any additional request.

Visa Extension Options

Dubai visit visas may be extendable from within the UAE, subject to immigration regulations at the time of extension.
Extension requests must be made before visa expiry.

  • 30-day visas: extension options may be available
  • 60-day visas: extension options may be available

Frequently Asked Questions

Do UK residents always need a Dubai visa?
Visa requirements depend on passport nationality.

Does holding a UK BRP guarantee visa-free entry to Dubai?
No. Dubai entry eligibility is based on passport nationality.

Can I apply for a Dubai visa from the UK without booking flights and hotel?
In many cases, travellers can apply first and confirm bookings after approval, but requirements may vary by application review.

How long does Dubai visa processing take?
Standard processing is usually 2–3 working days. Express processing may be available in 1 working day for eligible cases.

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