Dubai is more than just a travel destination for Indian travellers; its dazzling skyscrapers, luxury shopping malls, and thrilling desert safaris make it a dream destination. In January 2025, Dubai welcomed 1.94 million overnight visitors and remains a hotspot for Indian Travellers. 

But remember, before planning your trip to this futuristic city, it is important to understand the Dubai visa and the visa processing time to ensure a smooth journey. 

This guide on Dubai visa processing time for different visa types will help you get through the process without any hassles. 

Being the top destination for Indian travellers, understanding the Dubai visa processing time from India can save you from stress.

Each visa type (tourism, work, study, or business) has its own timeline and requirements.

This guide covers everything you need to know about Dubai visa processing time for Indians, including timelines by visa type, key factors affecting approval speed, and how Visa2Fly can help you get your visa faster!

Are You Eligible For a Dubai Visa?

Indians applying for a Dubai visa need to fulfil the following requirements:

  • A passport with a validity of a minimum of 6 months
  • Must have a travel insurance policy 
  • Providing all the booking details of flights as well as hotels 
  • Have adequate funds to cover expenses throughout the travel 
  • Have a clean record, i.e, no criminal convictions or pending legal cases

Now that you are eligible for a Dubai visa, understanding which type of visa you require is important.

Dubai Visa Processing Time Breakdown

1. Tourist Visa Processing Time

If you are planning to visit Dubai for sightseeing and tourism purposes, you should opt for a tourist visa.

Before applying for a Dubai tourist visa, ensure that your visa is valid for at least six months. 

Dubai provides 30-day as well as 60-day single and multiple-entry visas. 

Depending on your requirements, you can choose either.

Visa TypeEntry TypeStay DurationProcessing TimeCost (INR)
30 Days Tourist VisaSingle30 Days3–4 Days₹7,499
60 Days Tourist VisaSingle60 Days3–4 Days₹14,500
30 Days Tourist VisaMultiple30 Days3–4 Days₹14,000
60 Days Tourist VisaMultiple60 Days3–4 Days₹21,500
30 Days Tourist Visa (Express)Single30 Days1–2 Days₹12,500
60 Days Tourist Visa (Express)Single60 Days1–2 Days₹15,500


Indians are not eligible for the Dubai Visa on arrival, so they need to opt for a Tourist Visa.

But Indians can avail a visa on arrival only if specific conditions are fulfilled, like:

  • Must hold a US visa or green card valid for 6 months 
  • The stay should not extend more than 14 days

A visa on arrival is convenient, but if you are planning to stay a little longer, then opt for the tourist visa.

2. Work Visa Processing Time

If you are someone who is heading to Dubai for employment, then getting a work visa is a must.

Before you apply for the visa, make sure that all the documents, such as a valid job offer from a Dubai-based employer, are in order, and apply a few weeks before the joining date to avoid any delays. 

Processing Time: 10-20 working days 

3. Student Visa Processing Time

Dubai has world-class education and a vibrant student life. You must apply a few weeks before your course starts to avoid last-minute stress, and with a student visa, you can earn while you learn, as students are eligible for part-time jobs. 

Processing Time: 15-20 working days  

4. Family Visa Processing Time

Planning to visit a family member in Dubai? With proper documentation and meeting all the requirements, you can expect the visa in 15-30 working days.

Processing Time: 15-30 days

5. Business Visa Processing Time

A business visa is for those who are planning to visit Dubai to attend business meetings, conferences, or networking events.

It is important to submit the invitation with the document requirements for a business visa. 

Processing Time: 3-5 working days

6. Transit Visa Processing Time 

If you are flying through Dubai and have a long layover of more than 8 hours, then you can apply for a 96-hour single-entry transit visa.

It lets you step out of the airport and explore the city before you catch your next flight. It is perfect for a mini adventure between your long wait. 

Processing Time: 3–4 working days

Cost: ₹5,700

Once you have decided which type of visa suits your  purpose, the next step is to understand what the visa requirements are:

  • A Valid Passport: A passport with a validity of a minimum of 6 months
  • Recent Photograph: A recent passport-sized photograph with a white background, adhering to specified guidelines, will be required.
  • Travel Documentation or Invitation: Depending on the purpose of the visit, provide all the booking details of flights as well as hotels, and a formal invitation letter from the host. 
  • Financial Standing Evidence: Documentation such as a PAN card, recent salary statements, or income tax return filings.
  • Visa Fee Payment: The applicable visa fee is payable through accepted methods, depending on the application process.
  • Supplementary Documents (where applicable):
  • For applicants travelling with a parent or spouse, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) and a copy of their passport or UAE residence visa are required. 
  • Female applicants under the age of 24 travelling independently may also need to submit an NOC from a parent or husband, in accordance with UAE regulations.

Factors Affecting The Processing Time 

 Several factors can affect the Dubai visa processing time, like: 

  • Peak Season: If you are planning a trip around New Year’s or Eid, then you can expect a longer waiting time due to a surge in applications. 
  • Incomplete Documentation: If your documents are incorrect or there are some missing documents, then it can lead to a delay or even rejection of your visa application. 
  • Type of Visa Selected: Some visas (like long-term or family visit visas) require additional verifications.
  • Public Holidays: UAE and Indian public holidays may add extra days.
  • Additional Security Checks: Expect to undergo security checks if you are applying for long-term visas.
  • Embassy Workload: Especially if you are applying during the peak seasons, the higher number of applications may affect the efficiency of the embassy and cause delays.

Pro Tip: Always apply a few weeks in advance to avoid these common pitfalls.

Step-by-Step Dubai Visa Application Process

  1. Choose the Visa Type: Select the visa type according to your needs. 
  2. Prepare Documents: Make sure that all the documents, like a valid passport, passport-size photos, flights and hotel bookings, and financial proof, are in order before submitting. 
  3. Pay Fees: Complete the payment. Expedited processing is available for some visas.
  4. Track Application: Monitor your status via the UAE government portal or Visa2Fly for updates.

How to Track Your Dubai Visa Application

Tracking your visa application is simple and gives peace of mind.

a) Through Official Channels

You can track your Dubai visa status via:

  • UAE government portals
  • Authorised travel agencies and partners

You’ll typically need your application reference number and passport details.

b) Through Visa2Fly

With Visa2Fly, you get real-time updates at every stage of your visa application.

Our dedicated customer support team is also available to assist if you have any queries.

Tracking is simple, so you’re never left guessing!

Dubai Visa Processing Time During Peak Seasons

During holidays such as Eid, Christmas, Diwali, and Indian summer vacations (May–July), the Dubai visa processing time for Indians may extend by a few days due to high demand.

Quick Tips:

  • Apply 30–45 days before your intended travel.
  • Opt for express services if applying closer to the date.
  • Ensure all documents are 100% accurate to avoid rejections and resubmissions.

Tips to Avoid Delays in Your Dubai Visa Application

  • Double-Check All Documents: Ensure clarity, correct information, and required formats.
  • Apply in Advance: Submit your application at least 3–4 weeks before your travel date.
  • Avoid Peak Seasons: If possible, apply during less busy months to get quicker approvals.
  • Choose Reliable Services: Apply through trusted agencies like Visa2Fly to avoid unnecessary setbacks.

What to Do if Your Dubai Visa Application Is Delayed

Sometimes, despite careful planning, your Dubai visa might face delays. Here’s what you can do:

  • Contact Customer Support: Reach out to your visa service provider immediately.
  • Verify Documents: Double-check if any additional documentation has been requested.
  • Opt for Express Service: Some agencies, including Visa2Fly, offer expedited processing even after the initial application.
  • Stay Calm: Most delays are minor and often sorted within a few extra working days.

At Visa2Fly, our dedicated team ensures that even if a delay occurs, you get timely updates and support every step of the way.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to get a Dubai visitor visa?

The standard processing time for a Dubai tourist visa is 3 to 5 working days. However, this can vary based on the accuracy of your application, peak seasons, and the type of visa you apply for.

2. Do visa processing times vary by location?

Yes, the processing time can differ depending on the embassy or visa application centre where you apply.

Cities with a high volume of applications may experience slightly longer wait times.

3. Is there an express processing service available for Dubai visas?

For certain visa types, such as business or emergency travel visas, express processing may be available for an additional fee.

It’s best to check with the consulate or a visa service provider for details.

4. What happens if my Dubai visa is rejected?

If your application is denied, you can reapply after addressing the reasons for rejection.

Carefully review the feedback, correct any mistakes, and ensure all requirements are met before submitting a new application.

5. Are there special requirements for minors applying for a visa?

Yes, minors need a parental consent letter, along with their birth certificate and proof of identification for their parents or guardians. These documents must be submitted along with the visa application.

Conclusion

Understanding the Dubai visa processing time is essential for planning a smooth and stress-free journey.

Whether you are heading to Dubai for a holiday, business meeting, or visiting family and friends, knowing the average processing timelines, factors that affect approval speed, and how to track your application can make all the difference.

As we’ve covered, most Dubai visas for Indian travellers—whether Tourist, Transit, or Business—are processed within 1 to 4 working days, depending on the type of visa and whether you opt for standard or express services.

Being aware of peak seasons, ensuring all documents are complete, and applying early are key to avoiding delays.

At Visa2Fly, we are committed to making your Dubai visa experience effortless and reliable.

From faster processing options and real-time application tracking to expert document assistance and 24/7 customer support, our team ensures that every step of your visa journey is handled with care and expertise.