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96 Hours Transit Visa Dubai – Complete Guide for Travelers

Author : Govr Visa | Published On : 28 Feb 2026

If you have a long layover in the UAE, you don’t have to stay inside the airport. The 96 hours transit visa Dubai allows travelers to step out, explore the city, and experience the country for up to four days before continuing to their final destination. Whether you're connecting through Dubai International Airport or stopping over before another international flight, this visa option gives you the flexibility to make the most of your journey.

In this guide, we’ll cover eligibility, requirements, application steps, fees, and helpful travel tips.

What Is the 96 Hours Transit Visa?

The 96-hour transit visa is a short-term entry permit designed for travelers who are transiting through the UAE. It is valid for 4 days (96 hours) from the time of entry and is ideal for passengers with layovers longer than 8 hours.

This visa cannot be extended, so travelers must leave the country within the allowed timeframe.

Who Is Eligible?

To apply for a 96-hour transit visa, you must:

  • Have a confirmed onward ticket to a third destination (not the country you departed from)

  • Hold a passport valid for at least 6 months

  • Be traveling through a UAE airport such as Dubai or Abu Dhabi

  • Meet airline and immigration requirements

Most nationalities are eligible, but final approval depends on UAE immigration authorities.

How to Apply for a Dubai Transit Visa 96 Hours

You cannot apply for the transit visa independently through a standard tourist visa channel. Instead, it must be arranged through:

  • UAE-based airlines (such as Emirates or FlyDubai)

  • Authorized travel agencies

  • Hotel partners (in some cases)

Application Process:

  1. Confirm your onward flight booking.

  2. Contact your airline or travel agency.

  3. Submit required documents (passport copy, photo, flight tickets).

  4. Pay the applicable visa fee.

  5. Receive visa approval via email before travel.

Processing typically takes 2 to 4 working days, though it may vary.

Required Documents

When applying for the Dubai transit visa 96 hours, you’ll generally need:

  • Passport copy (valid for at least 6 months)

  • Recent passport-size photograph (white background)

  • Confirmed onward flight ticket

  • Completed visa application form

  • Hotel booking (if required by sponsor)

Always confirm with your airline, as requirements may slightly differ.

Visa Fees and Validity

The cost of the 96-hour transit visa varies depending on the airline or processing partner. On average, fees range between AED 50 to AED 100, excluding service charges.

Key points to remember:

  • Valid for 96 hours from entry

  • Single entry only

  • Non-extendable

  • Must exit within 4 days

Overstaying can result in fines and penalties.

What Can You Do During Your 96-Hour Stay?

Four days in Dubai is enough time to explore many iconic attractions, including:

  • Burj Khalifa

  • Dubai Mall

  • Dubai Marina

  • Desert Safari tours

  • Old Dubai and traditional souks

  • Jumeirah Beach

You can also take short trips to nearby emirates like Abu Dhabi or Sharjah if time permits.

This makes the 96-hour visa perfect for sightseeing, business meetings, short family visits, or simply relaxing before your next flight.

Important Travel Tips

To ensure a smooth experience:

  • Apply at least 3–5 days before travel.

  • Double-check passport validity.

  • Carry printed copies of your visa and flight tickets.

  • Ensure travel insurance coverage.

  • Confirm hotel bookings in advance.

  • Respect UAE laws and visa conditions.

Arriving prepared will help you avoid delays at immigration counters.

Difference Between 48-Hour and 96-Hour Transit Visa

The UAE also offers a 48-hour transit visa. The main difference is the duration of stay. If your layover is short (1–2 days), the 48-hour option may be sufficient. However, if you want a more relaxed schedule and deeper exploration, the 96-hour visa offers greater flexibility.

Why Choose a 96-Hour Transit Visa?

Many travelers intentionally schedule long layovers in Dubai to take advantage of this visa option. Benefits include:

  • Affordable short-term entry

  • Opportunity to explore world-class attractions

  • Convenient application through airlines

  • Fast processing time

  • Ideal for tourism and business meetings

Dubai’s modern infrastructure, safety standards, and global connectivity make it one of the best stopover destinations in the world.

Final Thoughts

The 96 hours transit visa Dubai is an excellent opportunity to turn a simple layover into a memorable travel experience. With straightforward eligibility requirements, quick processing, and affordable fees, it’s a practical solution for travelers passing through the UAE.

If you’re planning a long layover, consider applying in advance and make the most of your time exploring everything Dubai has to offer — from skyscrapers and shopping malls to cultural heritage sites and desert adventures.