From missing documents to re-entry issues, experts reveal how to avoid mistakes
Dubai: Heading to Dubai or anywhere else in the UAE soon? If you need to apply for a tourist or visit visa in advance, make sure you meet all the requirements even a small mistake could delay or derail your trip.
Travel experts in the UAE have shared the most common application errors and updated visa requirements that could lead to rejections. Here’s what to watch out for.
Common issues to watch out for when applying for a UAE visit visa
According to Sapna Aidasani, Marketing Director at Pluto Travels, several common but avoidable errors can result in visit visa application delays or rejections, many of which can be avoided with careful preparation.
1. Missing parental information for minors
“If you are applying for a visa on behalf of a minor, generally under the age of 18. You will need to provide full details of both parents, along with written consent,” Aidasani told Gulf News. “Applications without this information are often not approved by immigration authorities.”
2. Multiple applications for the same person
Submitting more than one visa application for the same individual can raise issues. “It’s important to check whether a previous or pending visa request exists before applying again to avoid duplication,” she advised.
Husham Kattingeri, Outbound Travel Supervisor at Regal Tours Worldwide, recommended waiting before applying for a new visit visa after leaving the UAE.
“If you plan to return soon, it is best to wait at least a month or more before starting a new application. Applying right after exit can sometimes result in complications,” he said.
If you plan to return soon, it is best to wait at least a month or more before starting a new application. Applying right after exit can sometimes result in complications.
Husham Kattingeri, an outbound travel supervisor at Regal Tours Worldwide
Husham Kattingeri
an outbound travel supervisor at Regal Tours Worldwide
Updated requirements for UAE tourist and visit visa applications
To ensure your application is successful, make sure you meet the following updated requirements:
1. Confirmed return tickets
Aidasani noted that having a confirmed return or onward travel ticket is mandatory. “This shows immigration authorities that the traveller intends to leave the country before the visa expires.”
2. Proof of accommodation
Applicants must provide either a hotel booking or proof of accommodation, this could include address of the UAE host (family member) you are staying with or or a tenancy agreement of the UAE resident.
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3. Financial proof and sufficient funds
According to Kattingeri, travellers may be asked to show proof of financial capability, either via bank statements or by carrying sufficient cash.
“This is randomly checked at the airport,” he explained. “It is advisable to carry bank statements on your phone, or physical cash amounting to at least Dh2,500 to Dh3,000.”
Aidasani added that Indian nationals should show a bank balance of at least INR 50,000 (Dh2,174.96) in a recent statement when applying.
4. Carry printed documents
In additional to having a valid passport, Kattingeri emphasised that travellers from certain countries should carry printed copies of key documents such as your return flight ticket, accommodation details, and proof of funds.
“This additional step of carrying supporting documents helps demonstrate that travellers are genuine visitors and have the financial means to fund their stay in the UAE,” he said.
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Key documents needed for a UAE tourist visa
To avoid the risk of visa rejection, applicants must ensure their documents are complete, accurate, and clearly presented, according to Rikin Sheth, assistant vice president at musafir.com. He emphasised that one of the most common reasons for visa refusal is missing or unclear documentation, making it essential to review all submissions carefully before applying.
Typical requirements for a UAE tourist visa include:
A passport valid for at least six months.
A passport-sized photo that meets UAE specifications.
A confirmed travel itinerary, such as flight and hotel bookings, or alternatively, the Emirates ID and tenancy contract of a UAE-based guarantor.
Financial proof, if requested, showing the applicant can afford the trip.
Applicants who have previously entered the UAE on a 30-day tourist visa and exited the country must wait at least 30 days before applying for a new tourist visa. Immigration authorities are increasingly cautious about applicants who attempt to enter the country repeatedly on back-to-back tourist visas.
Rikin Sheth, Assistant Vice President, B2C musafir.com
Rikin Sheth
Assistant Vice President
Applicants who have previously visited the UAE on a 30-day tourist visa must also be aware of re-entry rules. Sheth noted that individuals who exit the country after such a stay must wait a minimum of 30 days before applying for another tourist visa. “Immigration authorities are increasingly cautious about applicants who try to re-enter the UAE repeatedly on back-to-back tourist visas,” he said.
