How long does it take to process the 96 Hours Dubai Transit Visa?
Learn about how long a 96 hours Dubai transit visa takes to process, and how you can easily obtain it without any complications. Learn everything here!

Did you know what a 96-hour transit visa ensures? Well, it's a legal permit that allows travellers with a layover in Dubai to leave the airport and explore the "City of Gold" for up to four days. With the help of this visa, you will be able to explore Dubai and other emirates before continuing a journey to a third country.
The 96 hours Dubai transit visa is not just like a normal visa; it is a beneficial visa for those travellers who are interested in exploring the enchanting beauty of the UAE, instead of being confined to the airport. Furthermore, if you’re travelling somewhere and have a layover in Dubai, UAE, then continue to scroll through this comprehensive guide and streamline your travel experience.
Who Can Apply For A 96-Hour Transit Visa?
Anyone who is planning a layover in Dubai or has an onward flight from Dubai to any third destination can easily secure a transit visa. The visa is typically processed through the UAE-based airline or by connecting with a travel agent. However, if you're the one who has a layover in Dubai, UAE, then here is the eligibility criteria you should meet:
-
Passengers must have confirmed onward flight tickets departing from Dubai within 96 hours of arrival.
-
The layover in Dubai must be between 8 and 96 hours.
-
Travellers from countries requiring a visa are eligible to apply, while if you're from a visa-exempt nationality, then you need a transit visa.
-
Your passport has to be at least valid for six months beyond your intended travel date.
-
These are some general eligibility criteria that travellers are required to demonstrate while seeking a transit visa for Dubai.
What If You Fulfill Eligibility Criteria?
So, if you meet the eligibility criteria, then you can easily proceed with your visa application without facing any unforeseen circumstances. However, to apply for this visa application, you’re required to have some important documents, such as:
Read More :- Explore Dubai with Transit Visa: A Detailed Guide
1. A valid passport
2. Confirmed onward ticket
3. Passport-size photo
4. Proof of accommodation
5. Visa application form
6. Other documents, like a biometric copy of your passport's first and last page, financial proof, and other important documents.
Note:- These are some general important documents required; therefore, other than this, it is also advisable to cross-check all important requirements and processes with the official international visa services to streamline your travel experience.
Proceed With Your Visa Application:
The transit visa application is typically a straightforward application process, as compared to other visa applications. Just follow the step-by-step process and obtain a hassle-free visa confirmation within a short period:
Step 1: Choose the perfect application channel, whether it can be the UAE-based airlines or travel agents, and continue with the application form. In the application form, you're required to fill out details regarding your flights, passport, accommodation, purpose, and others.
Step 2: Once you're done filling up the application form, you submit the required documentation, along with the application fees. However, the fees might vary depending on your form, whether you've applied through a travel agent or on your own.
Step 3: After all this, all you’re required to do is wait for your visa to be approved. And once it’s approved, you will directly receive it at your email address.
How Much Time Does It Take To Approve?
A 96-hour Dubai transit visa typically takes 3 to 4 working days to be approved. The time typically varies by airline and time of application, and it is highly recommended to apply as early as possible to avoid any unforeseen circumstances. To streamline your visa application, here is something you need to know:
-
Airlines like Emirates, Etihad, and FlyDubai are some top ones offering streamlined visa application processes, potentially leading to faster processing times.
-
To secure and guarantee visa confirmation, consider securing your visa well in advance of your travel date, especially during the peak season, as unforeseen circumstances can cause delays.
-
For a smooth and hassle-free visa application, you can also opt for expert assistance by connecting with a reputable travel agency.
Read More :- What Should You Know About The Latest Visa Policies While Planning A Trip To Dubai?
What To Do With A Transit Visa?
With a 96-hour transit visa, you will have plenty of options to explore, among them are some best activities you can enjoy during your stay:
-
Admire the enchanting skyline and choreographed fountain from the top of Burj Khalifa, where you will also enjoy fine dining, the world’s fastest elevator, mesmerising views, and others.
-
Indulge in world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment at this massive mall. Also, don't forget to witness the mesmerising water, music, and light show at the base of the Burj Khalifa.
-
Explore an impressive man-made archipelago, offering luxury hotels, attractions, and ultimate residential areas of Palm Jumeirah.
-
Witness a stunning waterfront development with a vibrant atmosphere, offering dining, shopping, and leisure activities at Dubai Marina. Additionally, here you can also opt for luxury cruising with a vibrant skyline and coastline.
Some Valuable Tips
Here are some helpful tips that will ensure a hassle-free, guaranteed visa approval within a short period and make your overall visit a remarkable travel adventure:
-
Keep your passport, visa, onward ticket, and proof of accommodation readily available.
-
The 96-hour transit visa is valid for 96 hours from the time of entry and is not extendable.
-
Ensure that all the documents you shared are correct and meet all the eligibility criteria.
-
Keep an eye on any changes to travel advisories or entry requirements.
-
Remember that getting permission to enter Dubai using the transit visa might not permit performing certain actions in Dubai, except for having an extra licensing procedure.
Conclusion
In this blog, we've shared all the important information related to the 96-hour transit visa. From eligibility criteria to hassle-free visa confirmation, time taken, and other information, you'll find everything in this guide.
So, without looking further, if you are seeking visa assistance, then consider connecting with a travel agency in Dubai. With them, you will be able to streamline your travel adventure and seek hassle-free visa confirmation within a short period.