The UAE's self-sponsored 5-year visa allows all nationalities to stay up to 180 days a year without a sponsor or nominated employer as a host.

Although not a new visa type, the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA Dubai) has recently clarified the exact requirements and conditions for the UAE's five-year, multiple-entry tourist visa, confirming it is open to all nationalities to avail of and the

This self-sponsored visa allows tourists and business travellers of all nationalities to enter and exit the country multiple times over a five-year period without requiring a local sponsor or host. Under the guidelines, visa holders can stay in the UAE for up to 90 days per visit. This stay can be extended for an additional 90 days, provided the total duration spent in the country does not exceed 180 days within a single year.

abu dhabi international airport

Eligibility and Documentation Requirements

To qualify for the long-term tourist visa, applicants must submit the following documents:

A valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
A recent photograph
Proof of valid health insurance covering their stay in the UAE
A return flight ticket
Bank statements from the previous six months
Proof of a minimum bank balance of $4,000 or Dhs 14,700 (or its equivalent in other currencies) maintained throughout the six months preceding the application

Abu dhabi skyline via unsplash saeed-alsoomehi

Downtown Dubai skyline night via unsplash nejc-soklic

How to Apply

Applications can be completed online at any time through the UAE's official digital portals and smart applications. Alternatively, applicants can process their paperwork in person by visiting physical Customer Happiness Centres or Amer Service Centres.

The digital and in-person application process requires individuals to select the specific service, fill out the application form, upload their supporting files, and pay the required processing fees.

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Fees and Stay Compliance

The total cost to apply for the five-year tourist visa is Dhs 3,713. This comprehensive figure covers standard visa issuance fees, administrative service charges, and a refundable financial guarantee. The final total may vary slightly depending on individual applicant circumstances or any additional processing requirements.

Because visitors are legally responsible for staying within their permitted timeframes, the GDRFA recommends that travellers track their entry and exit history. Visitors can request an official travel movement report to monitor their exact days in the country and avoid overstaying penalties.

According to the GDRFA website, the visa can be approved and issued in just 48 hours.

Learn more about this visa type here

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