Planning a stopover in Dubai can be one of the most exciting parts of your journey, especially if you want to explore the city during a short layover. However, before setting foot outside the airport, travelers often need a visa for transit in Dubai. With updated rules in 2025, it’s important to understand the UAE transit visa fee, payment options, and refund policies so you can plan your budget more accurately.

Why Dubai Transit Visa Matters in 2025

Dubai has established itself as one of the busiest transit hubs in the world. Passengers flying through Emirates, FlyDubai, and other airlines frequently opt for a transit visa dubai to explore iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Old Souk markets. Whether you’re stopping for a few hours or planning a short city adventure, knowing the cost of a transit UAE visa ensures you avoid last-minute surprises.

Many travelers now prefer applying through the UAE visa portal, which provides a smooth and secure way to submit applications online. This shift toward digital processing has made getting a Dubai transit visa online easier and faster than ever before.

Updated Dubai Transit Visa Fees for 2025

The Dubai transit visa typically comes in two main categories: the 48 hours transit visa and the 96 hours transit visa. The updated UAE transit visa fee varies depending on duration, nationality, and processing method:

• 48 hours transit visa: Usually free or nominally priced through airlines, but service fees may apply if booked via third-party agents.
  
  

• 96 hours transit visa: Costs around AED 50–100, plus additional service charges.
  
  

Travelers applying for a visa for transit in Dubai should also consider hidden costs such as service provider fees, online transaction charges, and optional express processing. Always cross-check the latest details through the UAE visa portal to ensure you’re budgeting correctly.

Accepted Payment Methods for UAE Transit Visa

To make the application process convenient, the UAE transit visa online system allows multiple payment methods. Applicants can typically pay using:

• International debit or credit cards
  
  

• UAE-issued prepaid travel cards
  
  

• Airline payment gateways (if booking directly through airlines)
  
  

When applying for a visa for Dubai transit, it’s recommended to use official platforms such as airline websites or government portals. This ensures secure payments and reduces the risk of delays or cancellations.

Refund and Cancellation Policies

Not every traveler ends up using their Dubai transit visa. Flight delays, cancellations, or last-minute changes often impact travel plans. In such cases, refund policies depend on where you applied:

• Airline-issued visas: Refunds are rarely granted since they are tied to the flight booking.
  
  

• Third-party agencies: Some may provide partial refunds after deducting service fees.
  
  

• UAE visa portal: Generally non-refundable once processed, but applicants can reapply if their travel changes.
  
  

Before paying the UAE transit visa fee, carefully read the refund policy to avoid unnecessary losses.

Required Documents for Dubai Transit Visa

To successfully get transit visa Dubai, applicants must prepare a few essential documents:

• Valid passport (with at least 6 months’ validity)
  
  

• Confirmed onward ticket to a third destination
  
  

• Recent passport-sized photograph
  
  

• Proof of hotel booking (if planning to exit the airport)
  
  

Submitting these documents on time helps avoid delays, especially when applying for a Dubai transit visa online.

How Dubai Transit Visa Differs from Tourist Visa

Many travelers confuse the Dubai transit visa with the UAE tourist visa. The main difference lies in the duration and purpose. A transit UAE visa is strictly for short stays during stopovers, usually 48–96 hours. On the other hand, a UAE tourist visa allows a longer stay ranging from 30 to 90 days for leisure or business activities.

This distinction is important for budgeting, as the UAE transit visa fee is much lower compared to tourist visa costs.

FAQs on Dubai Transit Visa Fee 2025

Q1. How much is the 96 hours transit visa for Dubai in 2025? 

The 96 hours transit visa generally costs between AED 50–100, plus any service charges.

Q2. Can I get transit visa UAE on arrival? 

Not all travelers are eligible. Certain nationalities may get it on arrival, while others must apply in advance through the UAE visa portal.

Q3. Is the transit visa fee refundable? 

Most fees for visa for transit in Dubai are non-refundable, but it depends on the issuing channel. Always check refund policies before applying.

Q4. Can I extend my Dubai transit visa? 

No, the transit UAE visa cannot be extended. Travelers needing more time must apply for a UAE tourist visa instead.

Q5. What’s the best way to apply for a transit visa? 

The safest way is to apply for a Dubai transit visa online through airlines or the official UAE visa portal.

Exploring Dubai during a short layover can add unforgettable memories to your trip. With a clear understanding of the UAE transit visa fee, payment options, and refund policies, you can plan confidently and avoid unnecessary expenses. Are you planning to use your next stopover in Dubai to experience the city, or would you prefer to relax at the airport lounge?