Like a lot of countries, Dubai has found itself on the receiving end of big influxes of visitors and migratory workers over recent years – particularly as the economy has boomed. Today, there are thousands of jobs in Dubai that are being filled by foreign workers on either a temporary or permanent basis.

If you’re thinking of adding to the number, then it is best to get to grips with the visa requirements beforehand as they are often quite complex and demanding.

If you are from some countries, you can get a visa on arrival at Dubai airport. These countries are as follows:

  • GCC Nationals: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
  • Greece
  • Finland
  • Spain
  • Monaco
  • Vatican City
  • Iceland
  • Andorra
  • San Mario
  • Liechtenstein.
  • France
  • Italy
  • Germany
  • Holland
  • Belgium
  • Luxemburg
  • Switzerland
  • Austria
  • Sweden
  • Norway
  • Denmark
  • Portugal
  • Ireland
  • United Kingdom
  • USA and Canada
  • Australia and New Zealand
  • Japan, Brunei, Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong

The government of Dubai updates the list from time to time so get in touch with the UAE embassy or visit the official website of the Dubai government for up to date information.

If you come from outside of those countries then you will need a sponsor in order to acquire a Dubai visa.

Eligible Sponsors

  • Anyone who is a Dubai residence visa holder with an income of more than AED 4000 a month
  • Your travel agent or the hotel where you are staying
  • Any company that is based in Dubai

The sponsor must submit the relevant paperwork and pay the fee on your behalf. A
visit visa for Dubai last 55 days from the date you arrive and can be renewed for 1further month if needed.

Without a Sponsor

Without a sponsor it can be very difficult to acquire a legitimate visa in order to work in or visit Dubai, but there are some potential options.

If you fly into Dubai on Emirates airlines, you can make a visa application without a sponsor. The airline have set up Visa Processing Centres in various countries, so getting in touch with the airline is the best place to start.

Also Dubai’s visa restrictions are relaxed a little during some of the many festivals that occur in the principality, such as the Dubai Shopping Festival