Dubai remains a top destination for British travellers in 2025, thanks to its year-round sunshine, luxurious lifestyle, and seamless connectivity. But before you book your ticket, it’s essential to understand the Dubai visa rules for British passport holders, especially if you’re planning an extended stay. Here’s everything you need to know, including the popular 30-day visa on arrival, options for longer stays, and what to do if you’re already in Dubai and want to stay longer.
Visa on Arrival for British Passport Holders
British passport holders receive a free 30-day visa on arrival in Dubai, issued at the airport with no prior application needed.
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Is issued free at the airport.
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Requires no prior paperwork or application.
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Is non-extendable.
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Max stay allowed is 30 days.
This is perfect for tourists, short business trips, or quick getaways. However, if you plan to stay longer or want flexibility to extend your trip, a pre-arranged visa is the better option.
Planning a Longer Stay? Get a Pre-Arranged 60-Day Visa
If you’re British and planning to stay in Dubai for more than 30 days, consider applying for a 60-day pre-arranged UAE tourist visa. This visa is:
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Issued before you travel.
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Valid for 60 days from the date of entry.
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Can be extended for another 30 days without leaving the UAE.
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Available via licensed travel agencies or online platforms such as ApplyDubaiVisa.com.
This visa is especially useful if you’re visiting family, planning to explore the region, or working remotely while enjoying Dubai’s lifestyle.
Already in Dubai on a 30-Day Visa? Here’s How to Extend Your Stay
If you’re already in Dubai on a 30-day visa on arrival and decide you want to stay longer, don’t worry—you still have options.
A widely used and legal option in 2025 is the “visa run” to Oman:
- Take a short trip to Oman by road or air from the UAE.
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Stay for at least one day.
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While you’re in Oman, apply for a new 60-day UAE tourist visa through a travel agency.
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Re-enter the UAE with your new visa.
This process is quick, affordable, and commonly used by travelers. British passport holders only need:
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A clear passport copy (valid for at least 3 months).
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A recent passport-sized photo with white background.
The same process applies to British Overseas Territories passport holders (e.g., holders of British Island passports), who are eligible for similar visa services.
Why Choose a Pre-Arranged Visa?
Even if you’re eligible for visa on arrival, getting a pre-arranged visa in advance offers multiple advantages:
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Peace of mind if your plans change.
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Flexibility to extend without leaving the UAE.
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Helps avoid last-minute visa runs.
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Required for some specific activities like attending certain events or remote work purposes.
You can apply for a pre-arranged visa through trusted agencies or directly at ApplyDubaiVisa.com, where the process is simple and efficient.
Required Documents for British Citizens
Dubai visa as a British citizen is easy process, documents requirement is basic.
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Passport copy (valid for at least 3 months).
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Recent passport photo with white background.
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Travel itinerary or hotel booking (optional but helpful for processing).
Processing usually takes 24–72 hours depending on the visa type.
FAQs – Dubai Visa for British Citizens
1. Do British citizens need a visa to enter Dubai?
British citizens receive a free 30-day visa on arrival at any UAE airport. No paperwork is needed in advance.
2. Can the 30-day visa on arrival be extended?
No, the 30-day visa on arrival is not extendable. If you wish to stay longer, you’ll need to exit the UAE and apply for a new pre-arranged visa.
3. What if I want to stay longer but I’m already in Dubai on a 30-day visa?
You can travel to Oman for a short trip, apply for a new 60-day visa while there, and return to the UAE. This method is common and legal.
4. How can I get a 60-day visa for Dubai from the UK?
You can apply online through licensed travel agencies like ApplyDubaiVisa.com before you travel. It’s a simple process with minimal documents required.
5. Can British Overseas Territories citizens get a visa on arrival?
Yes, most British Overseas Territories passport holders (e.g., British Islanders) are also eligible for the 30-day visa on arrival in the UAE.
6. Is the visa process the same in 2025?
As of now, the visa rules remain the same in 2025. However, air ticket copy and hotel booking is required additional in some cases.
Final Thoughts
Dubai is incredibly welcoming to British passport holders, with flexible visa options to suit every type of traveler. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or a few months, it’s essential to plan your visa accordingly. For longer stays or flexible extensions, a 60-day pre-arranged visa is your best bet. If you’re already in the UAE and wish to stay longer, doing a visa run to Oman is a convenient and effective option.
Need help with your visa? Visit ApplyDubaiVisa.com for fast, reliable, and professional visa services tailored for British travelers.