There is no standard 2-year Dubai tourist visa available to the general public. The UAE tourist visa options are 30-day, 60-day, and 90-day single entry, plus multiple entry visas valid for 6 months. However, there are 2-year UAE residence visas available through specific routes including employment, property investment, and free zone business setup. This guide explains all the options often searched as a “2-year Dubai visa” and their actual costs in 2026.
What Is a 2-Year Dubai Visa?
When people search for a “2-year Dubai visa,” they are usually asking about one of three things:
- A UAE employment residence visa (valid 2 years, sponsored by employer)
- A UAE investor or partner visa from a free zone business setup (valid 2 years)
- A UAE property investor residence visa for property worth AED 750,000+ (valid 2 years)
None of these are tourist visas. They are UAE residence visas that allow the holder to live in the UAE long-term. Tourist visas max out at 90 days per visit.
2-Year UAE Residence Visa Cost 2026
| Visa Type | Validity | Approximate Cost (AED) | Who It Is For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Employment visa (employer sponsored) | 2 years | AED 3,000–5,000 (paid by employer) | People with a job offer in UAE |
| Free zone company setup + visa | 2 years | AED 10,000–25,000/year | Self-employed, freelancers, investors |
| Property investor visa (AED 750K+ property) | 2 years | AED 3,000–5,000 govt fees | Property buyers in Dubai/UAE |
Tourist Visa Options — If You Want to Stay Long-Term
If you do not qualify for a residence visa but want to stay in Dubai as long as possible on a tourist visa, the best options are:
| Visa Type | Stay Per Entry | AED Fee | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60-Day Single Entry | 60 days | AED 600 | Extended holidays |
| 60-Day + 30-Day Extension | 90 days total | AED 1,200–1,300 | Maximum single stay |
| Multiple Entry 60 Days | 60 days per entry | AED 1,200 | Frequent Dubai visitors |
On a multiple entry visa, you can keep re-entering Dubai every 60 days across a 6-month validity window. This is the closest tourist option to a long-term stay arrangement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a 2-year tourist visa for Dubai?
No. The UAE does not issue a 2-year tourist visa to the general public. The maximum tourist visa duration is 90 days (single entry). For a 2-year stay, you need a UAE residence visa through employment, property investment, or a free zone business.
How much does a UAE employment visa cost?
A UAE employment residence visa costs approximately AED 3,000–5,000 in government fees, typically paid by the employer. The total cost including medical tests and Emirates ID is usually AED 4,000–7,000, covered by the company in most cases.
Can I get a 2-year UAE visa without a job?
Yes. A 2-year UAE residence visa without employment is available through a free zone company setup (from AED 10,000–15,000/year) or a property investor visa (for property worth AED 750,000 or more). The Golden Visa (10 years) is also available for qualifying investors and professionals.
What is the cheapest way to get a 2-year UAE residence visa?
The most affordable route is a free zone freelance permit, which starts from approximately AED 5,750–8,000 per year and includes a 2-year UAE residence visa. Free zones like RAKEZ, Fujairah Creative City, and Sharjah Publishing City offer some of the lowest-cost options.