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Dubai is synonymous with luxury, from modern architecture to glamorous malls and some of the most opulent hotels in the world. There are also beautiful beaches, historic neighbourhoods and magical deserts to explore. Now that the trip is in the diary, do you need a visa for Dubai? Let’s find out.
Do you need a visa for Dubai as a UK citizen?
Yes, UK citizens need a visa to travel to Dubai, but it’s free of charge and issued upon arrival to the UAE. No advance application is needed ahead of travel, which means there’s no extra admin when holiday planning. The visa is valid for 30 days and is extendable by up to 10 days upon application.
Dubai entry requirements for UK citizens
While the visa process is simple, UK citizens do need to meet some criteria for entry into the UAE. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry to the country. Be sure to check gov.uk for the latest requirements for travel in the UAE as this can change at short notice.
What are other visas you can apply for in Dubai?
Aside from visiting Dubai as a tourist, you may want to apply to stay there as a student or to work. These will require different types of visas that need to be applied for in advance. Each have very different requirements that must be carefully considered and noted.
- For those who want to study in Dubai, you’ll need a Student Entry Permit. To apply for this, you will need to provide proof of schooling, submit financial documentation and pay the visa fee. This is between AED 5,500 and AED 6,500 – about £1220 and £1440.
- To work in Dubai as a UK citizen, you need to find a job in Dubai and your employer will apply for a residency visa on your behalf. You’ll also need a bachelor’s degree and a minimum monthly income of AED 15,000 (around £3320).
The 5 best places to visit in and around Dubai
Futuristic skyscrapers, pristine beaches, dancing fountains, shopping galore, water parks, and the desert – Dubai has so much to offer UK visitors. Whether you’re looking to tick off all the tourist hotspots or are happy to sit on a sun lounger with a cocktail in hand for most of your trip, here are some of the best places to visit in Dubai.
- Dubai Creek. Take a step away from the modern side of Dubai and stroll along the historic Dubai Creek and explore the many souks, shops and restaurants. Better yet, hop on an abra – a traditional small boat used to ferry people across the creek.
- The Arabian desert. A 20-minute car journey from the centre of Dubai will take you to the Arabian desert, where you can go quad biking or sand surfing, eat local cuisine under the stars and ride a camel.
- Go skydiving. Yes, really – if you’re going to try skydiving, it might as well be somewhere with a spectacular and unique view, right? Skydive from 13,000ft and take in the iconic views of the Palm Jumeirah.
- Dubai Miracle Garden. From the butterfly garden that’s home to 15,000 of the winged beauties to hedges snipped into elephants and castles covered in bright flowers, the world’s largest natural flower garden is one for the itinerary.
- The Dubai Fountain. Who can say no to a mesmerising musical water fountain display? Situated at the base of the Burj Khalifa, displays begin at 6pm and take place every half an hour until 11pm.
The foregoing article was last updated on 24th of February 2025. It does not contain legal advice and is for informational purposes only. KAYAK does not guarantee, and accepts no legal liability arising from or connected to, the accuracy, reliability, currency, or completeness of any of the information contained in this article and/or any of the content linked to within it. Always check the official government website of your departure and arrival destinations prior to travel for up-to-date information.
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