Dubai is one of the world’s most vibrant cities—famous not just for its towering skyscrapers and luxury lifestyle, but also as a leading destination for tourism, business, and international careers. Every year, millions of people travel to Dubai for a variety of reasons—whether it’s a short vacation, a new job opportunity, or long-term residency.
But before stepping into the UAE, it’s crucial to understand the different Dubai visa types available. The type of visa you apply for depends on your purpose of visit, duration of stay, and legal requirements set by UAE authorities. Applying for the wrong visa—or not understanding its terms—can lead to delays, legal issues, or even entry denial.
This guide is designed to simplify the process. Whether you’re a tourist planning a quick visit, a job seeker exploring opportunities, a professional relocating for work, or an investor setting up a business—this article will walk you through the Dubai visa types that best suit your needs.
Let’s get started with a clear breakdown of each visa category.
Tourist Visa Types
Dubai welcomes millions of tourists each year with flexible visa options that cater to different travel plans. Among the most common Dubai visa types, tourist visas are ideal for individuals visiting for leisure, sightseeing, or to spend time with family and friends. Here’s a breakdown of the main tourist visa categories:
Short-Term Tourist Visa (30 Days)
This visa is perfect for travelers planning a brief stay in Dubai. It allows you to stay in the UAE for up to 30 days from the date of entry.
- Who it’s for: Tourists visiting for short holidays, events, or family meetups.
- Validity: 30 days stay; must be used within 60 days of issue.
- Extensions: Can usually be extended for another 30 days by applying through an authorized visa center, without the need to leave the country.
Long-Term Tourist Visa (90 Days)
If you’re planning a longer stay—perhaps to explore Dubai in depth or visit family for an extended period—this visa is ideal.
- Who it’s for: Extended vacationers, retirees, or relatives of UAE residents.
- Validity: 90 days stay; also valid for 60 days from issue.
- Extensions: Renewable once for an additional 90 days in most cases.
Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa
Designed for people who need to travel in and out of Dubai several times during a specific period.
- Who it’s for: Business travelers, frequent flyers, and long-term tourists.
- Validity: Typically valid for 5 years, allowing stays of up to 90 days per visit (can be extended up to 180 days in total per year).
Benefits: Saves time and money compared to applying for single-entry visas every time.
Work Visa Types
Dubai continues to attract professionals, entrepreneurs, and skilled workers from around the globe. Among the most important Dubai visa types, work visas are essential for anyone planning to live and work in the UAE. Whether you’re joining a company, freelancing, or seeking long-term opportunities, there’s a suitable visa for you.
Employment Visa
This is the most common work visa type in Dubai and is issued to individuals who have secured a job with a UAE-based employer.
- Who it’s for: Professionals, skilled and unskilled workers employed by companies in the UAE.
- Sponsorship: Provided by the hiring company.
- Steps to obtain:
- Offer letter and labor contract issued by the company.
- Work permit approval from the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE).
- Entry permit is issued.
- After arrival: medical fitness test, Emirates ID biometrics, and visa stamping on passport.
This visa is typically valid for 2 years (private sector) and can be renewed upon expiration.
Green Visa for Freelancers & Skilled Workers
Introduced to support the growing freelance economy and independent professionals, the Green Visa allows individuals to sponsor themselves without needing a company sponsor.
- Who it’s for: Freelancers, self-employed individuals, and skilled professionals like coders, designers, consultants, and educators.
- Validity: 5 years, renewable.
- Requirements: Proof of income (AED 360,000+ annually in some cases), education certificates, and relevant work contracts or freelance licenses.
Ideal for those wanting more flexibility and control over their career in the UAE.
Residency Visa Types
Among the various Dubai visa types, residency visas allow individuals to live in the UAE for an extended period—either to join family, run a business, or enjoy retirement in a safe and modern environment. These visas come with a range of durations and benefits depending on the category.
Family Visa (Spouse, Children, Parents)
The Family Residency Visa allows expatriates residing in Dubai to sponsor their immediate family members.
- Who can sponsor:
- Male residents earning a minimum monthly salary of AED 4,000 (or AED 3,000 + accommodation) can sponsor their wife and children.
- Female residents may sponsor their family in certain cases (with higher income thresholds and approval).
- Parents can also be sponsored, typically requiring a higher salary (around AED 20,000) and proof of being the sole provider.
This visa allows families to live, study, and access healthcare in the UAE legally.
Investor or Partner Visa
This category is ideal for foreign nationals who want to start or invest in a business in Dubai.
- Who it’s for:
- Entrepreneurs, business owners, and company shareholders.
- Those opening or investing in mainland or free zone businesses.
- Process:
- Register a company and obtain a trade license.
- Apply for an investor visa under the company name.
- Provide proof of shareholding or capital investment.
- Validity: Typically issued for 2 to 3 years, with the ability to sponsor dependents (family members and employees).
The Investor Visa is a popular path for long-term residency among entrepreneurs and foreign investors.
Golden Visa (10-Year Residency)
The Golden Visa is a prestigious long-term residency visa granted to individuals who make significant contributions in their field or to the UAE economy.
- Who it’s for:
- Investors in public investments or property
- Entrepreneurs with a successful business track record
- Scientists, researchers, doctors, and medical professionals
- Creative professionals in culture, arts, or media
- Outstanding students and graduates
This visa is ideal for high-achievers and investors looking to build a long-term future in the UAE.
Student Visa
The Student Visa is issued to foreign nationals pursuing higher education in the UAE.
- Who it’s for:
- Students accepted into recognized UAE universities or colleges
- Those enrolled in long-term academic or professional training programs
- Key features:
- Typically valid for 1 year, renewable upon proof of continued education
- Requires a university admission letter, financial proof, and medical fitness
- Outstanding students may also be eligible for long-term student visas (up to 5 years)
This visa opens the door for international students to experience Dubai’s world-class education system and multicultural environment.
How SH Typing Center Can Help
Navigating the different Dubai visa types can be overwhelming—especially with frequent updates in immigration laws, document requirements, and approval processes. Whether you’re applying for a tourist visa, employment visa, or long-term residency, SH Typing Center is here to make the entire process easier, faster, and more reliable.
End-to-End Visa Application Support
At SH Typing Center, we offer comprehensive visa services for:
- Tourists visiting friends, family, or exploring Dubai
- Job seekers and professionals applying for employment or freelance visas
- Families looking to sponsor spouses, children, or parents
- Investors, entrepreneurs, and retirees needing long-term or special category visas
From choosing the right visa category to completing the final submission, our team assists you at every step—minimizing errors and saving valuable time.
Expert Help with Document Preparation & Submission
Each visa type in the UAE has its own set of required documents, including passport copies, photos, proof of income or employment, medical test results, insurance, and more. Even a small mistake or missing document can delay your application or lead to rejection.
Our trained staff ensures:
- All your documents are complete, correct, and up to date
- Applications are filled out accurately and in accordance with immigration regulations
- Timely submission to relevant government portals, including the GDRFA and ICA systems
- Ongoing updates on your visa status until approval is granted
We also assist with Emirates ID applications, medical typing, attestation services, and more—under one roof.
Stay Updated with Changing UAE Visa Rules
Immigration rules in the UAE are dynamic and often revised based on government decisions. SH Typing Center stays on top of all changes, ensuring that your visa process follows the most current requirements.
We provide:
- The latest information on eligibility, visa fees, and processing times
- Updates on new visa types like the Remote Work Visa or changes to Golden Visa criteria
- Personalized advice based on your nationality, purpose of stay, and visa goals
Whether you’re applying for your first Dubai visa or renewing your residency, we help you stay fully compliant and informed—without the stress.
A Trusted Visa Partner in Al Barsha, Dubai
Located in the heart of Al Barsha, SH Typing Center is known for its fast, friendly, and affordable visa services. Our multilingual team serves clients from all over the world, offering tailored support for expats, travelers, and business professionals.
If you need reliable guidance with any Dubai visa type, SH Typing Center is your go-to partner. Reach out today—we’re ready to help you get started with the right visa solution for your needs.
Plan Ahead: Let Us Simplify Your Dubai Visa Process
Choosing the right visa is essential for a smooth and legal stay in Dubai—whether you’re visiting, working, studying, or relocating with family. Applying early, understanding your visa terms, and staying compliant with UAE regulations can save you from unnecessary delays, penalties, or rejections.
If you’re unsure which Dubai visa type suits your needs, or if you want stress-free support with documentation and approvals, SH Typing Center is here to help.
Get in touch today for expert assistance with tourist, work, residency, or golden visas—tailored to your situation.
