How to Get Multiple Entry Visa UAE : Complete Guide 2025

Securing a multiple entry visa for the UAE can save you time, money, and hassle if you plan to visit multiple times within a certain period—whether for business meetings, family obligations, or extended tourism. Over the years, the UAE has introduced progressive updates to simplify entry requirements, reduce dependency on sponsors, and cater to various travel needs.

• Who benefits the most?
  • Families wanting to reunite with relatives.
  • Frequent travelers exploring the UAE’s vibrant culture and economy.
  • Business professionals attending conferences, meetings, or scouting potential investments.

In 2025, two standout options have emerged as particularly convenient for long stays or multiple visits: the 90-Day Multi-Entry Visa and the 5-Year Multi-Entry Tourist Visa. Both come with no local sponsor required and flexible extensions.

1. What Is a UAE Multiple Entry Visa?

A UAE multiple entry visa allows the holder to make multiple entries and exits during its validity period. Several types of multiple entry visas exist, such as the 5-year multiple entry visa UAE, which is used by tourists and professionals alike. These visas are particularly helpful in enhancing flexibility, reducing hassle, and avoiding a series of frequent visa applications.

Multiple entry visas contrast with single-entry visas for several reasons.

• Frequent business travelers operating in the UAE.
• Families whose members have dual-country commitments
• Planned extended tourists.
• Visitors to events, exhibition goers, and expatriates.

2. Benefits of a UAE Multiple Entry Visa

1. Enhanced Travel Flexibility

The holder may freely enter and leave the country during the period that his visa is valid.

2. Cost-Effective for Frequent Travelers

Savings both in terms of time and money spent from not having to apply for repeated visits.

3. Convenient for Business and Leisure

Professionals can easily handle regional projects, and tourists can tour the UAE and other countries.

Visas such as the 5-year multiple entry visa UAE enable visitors to stay up to 90 days per visit with possible extensions.

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3. Types of UAE Multiple Entry Visa

1. 90-Day Multi Entry Visa

• Validity: You must enter the UAE within the visa’s validity (often around 60 days from issuance). Once you make your first entry, you can stay up to 90 days, with the possibility of an extension for another 90 days—180 days total per year.
• Key Feature: No local sponsor needed, which is a significant change from previous rules that required a host or a company sponsor.
• Best For: Tourists, job seekers, or individuals with extended family visits who don’t plan to reside permanently but need more than the typical 30-day or 60-day tourist visas.

2. 5-Year Multi Entry Tourist Visa

• Validity: As the name suggests, it’s valid for 5 years, allowing unlimited entries during that period.
• Stay Duration: Each visit can last up to 90 days, extendable to a maximum of 180 days per year.
• Key Feature: Once again, no sponsor required. This is especially advantageous for those who travel frequently to the UAE for personal, business, or tourism reasons.
• Best For:
  • Frequent flyers with consistent travel to the UAE.
  • Families who need to visit relatives often.
  • Business professionals exploring opportunities in the Emirati market.

3. Other Multi-Entry Considerations

While the 90-day and 5-year visas are the most sought-after for repeated entry, you can still find other multi-entry options in special cases—like business exploration visas or mission visas. However, those often require a local company’s support or sponsorship, so they’re not as streamlined as the sponsor-free, multi-entry tourist visas.

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4. Eligibility Requirements

1. Financial Stability & Bank Statements

One of the common denominators across both the 90-day and 5-year multi-entry tourist visas is proof of financial stability. Often, you’ll need to show:

• Bank balance of around $4,000 (or equivalent) consistently over the last 6 months.
• Alternatively, salary certificates if you’re employed, or partnership contracts if you own a business.

Why is this important? The UAE wants reassurance that you can support yourself financially during your stay, covering accommodation, travel, and miscellaneous expenses.

2. Valid Passport & Health Insurance

• Your passport must remain valid for at least 6 months from your intended arrival date.
• Health insurance is mandatory for both short visits and long-term stays. A basic travel insurance policy that covers emergency medical treatment in the UAE typically suffices.

3. Age and Family Ties

• Age: Applicants usually must be 18 years or older, though minors can apply if accompanied by parents or guardians.
• Family Visits: If you’re citing a family reunion as your purpose, you’ll need documents like marriage certificates or birth certificates to prove the relationship.

4. Acceptable Purpose of Visit

The UAE Government Portal outlines various acceptable reasons for entry:

• Tourism: Sightseeing, relaxation, or cultural immersion.
• Visiting Family or Friends: Reunion trips, attending milestones (weddings, graduations).
• Business Exploration: Meetings, conferences, potential real estate investments, or commercial opportunities.

As long as you do not intend to work or seek permanent residency under this visa, you’re generally within acceptable bounds.

5. Method For Application Process

Method 1: Gather Required Documents

Before you start the actual application, assemble these documents to avoid any last-minute hiccups:

1. Passport Copy: Clearly scanned bio page, ensuring six months’ validity remains.
2. Passport-Sized Photographs: Two recent photos (white background, typically 4.3 cm x 5.5 cm).
3. Proof of Accommodation: Hotel bookings or an invitation letter from friends/family.
4. Financial Proof: Bank statements, salary certificate, or other documents showing a stable financial status.
5. Travel Insurance: Must cover potential medical expenses during your stay.
6. Return or Onward Ticket: Helps demonstrate your intention to leave before your visa expires.

Method 2: Submitting an Online Application

The UAE offers convenient digital channels to streamline your visa process:

• GDRFA Website or ICA Portal:
  1. Create an account or log in via UAE Pass.
  2. Select the type of visa you’re applying for (e.g., 5-year multi-entry tourist visa).
  3. Complete the online application form, providing accurate personal details.
  4. Upload the required documents in the specified formats (JPEG, PDF, etc.).
  5. Pay the service fee using your credit or debit card.
• Smartphone Apps (GDRFA App or ICA UAE App):
  1. Install the app on your phone.
  2. Sign in or register.
  3. Fill in the visa application, attach documents, and pay the fees in-app.

Method 3: Applying Through Service Centers

If you prefer a face-to-face approach or if you’re already in the UAE, you can visit:

• Amer Service Centers
• Customer Happiness Centers

Steps:

1. Collect a ticket from the automated queue system.
2. Wait for your turn and submit the documents to the customer service representative.
3. Pay the applicable fees (including any knowledge or innovation dirham charges, if required).

Method 4: Paying the Required Fees

Visa fees vary based on:

• Duration of Stay: 30-day, 60-day, or 90-day.
• Type of Visa: 90-Day Multi-Entry or 5-Year Multi-Entry Tourist Visa.
• Additional Expenses: Health insurance, refundable deposit, inside-the-country fee (if you’re applying from within the UAE), etc.

Method 5: Awaiting Approval and EVisa Delivery

Once your application is submitted:

1. Processing Time: It may take anywhere from 5 to 10 business days.
2. Confirmation: If approved, you’ll receive an electronic visa (eVisa) via email. Print it out or keep a digital copy on your phone to present at immigration.

6. Visa Fees, Guarantees, and Insurance Costs

1. Fee Breakdown for Multiple-Entry Visas

• 30-Day Visa: Approximately AED 300.
• 60-Day Visa: Approximately AED 500.
• 90-Day Visa: Approximately AED 700.
• 5-Year Multi-Entry Tourist Visa: Usually AED 700 for each 90-day block (though total costs can vary depending on additional fees).

Note: All fees are subject to 5% VAT and can change based on official revisions.

2. Security Deposit & Refund

For certain multi-entry visas—particularly those without sponsor—the UAE requires a AED 2,000 refundable deposit. This deposit is returned when:

1. The visa expires or is canceled.
2. You exit the UAE without violating visa conditions.

3. Health Insurance Requirements

Insurance fees can range from AED 40 for a shorter stay to AED 90 for longer durations. Having valid health insurance is crucial for:

• Emergency medical treatment.
• Addressing unexpected healthcare costs while in the UAE.

7. Entering the UAE: What to Expect at Immigration

Upon arrival, you’ll need to:

1. Present your eVisa and a valid passport.
2. Answer any questions about your trip (purpose, duration, financial means).
3. Possibly submit fingerprints or other biometric data if the immigration officer requests it.

If everything checks out, the officer will stamp your passport, officially starting your permitted stay.

8. How to Extending Your Stay?

1. Steps to Extend a 90-Day Stay

If you’re holding a 90-day multi-entry visa and need more time:

Step 1: Apply online:

via GDRFA or ICA at least 7 days before your current stay expires.

Step 2: Pay the extension fees:

(approximately AED 850 per extension, though final costs can vary).

You can extend once or twice, but the total cannot exceed 180 days per year.

2. Step For Extensions of 5-Year Multi-Entry Visa Holders

The 5-year visa also grants 90-day stays per visit, extendable for another 90 days. To extend:

1. Submit an application via GDRFA or ICA.
2. Pay relevant extension fees.
3. Ensure you haven’t exceeded the yearly maximum of 180 days inside the country.

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9. Common Challenges and How to Avoid Them

1. Insufficient Documentation

Many applicants underestimate the documents required, leading to delays or rejections. Always double-check official guidelines and maintain updated bank statements, insurance, and valid passports.

2. Financial Requirements

Falling short of the minimum bank balance or not providing consistent financial statements can be a major stumbling block. It’s best to have a stable account history for at least 6 months.

3. Confusion at Service Centers

Some travelers find the Service Centers or typing centers confusing. To avoid issues:

• Arrive early, especially if it’s a busy center.
• Bring extra copies of everything (passport pages, photos, bank statements).
• Keep digital backups on your phone or cloud storage.

4. Delayed Processing Times

While most applications process within a week, peak travel seasons (holidays, major events) can slow things down. Submit your application well in advance—two to three weeks before your intended travel date if possible.

10. Tips for a Successful Application

1. Ensuring Compliance with UAE Immigration Rules

• Follow instructions to the letter: Missing a document or uploading the wrong file format can cause delays.
• Watch for sponsor vs. sponsor-free guidelines: Since you’re applying sponsor-free, ensure you pick the correct visa category.

2. Navigating the GDRFA & ICA Platforms

• UAE Pass: This unified digital identity makes it easier to apply for services. If you don’t have it, you can still create an account using your email or phone number.
• Check the official tutorials: Both GDRFA and ICA often have user guides or short videos to walk you through the application process.

3. Leveraging Travel Itineraries & Documentation

Providing a detailed itinerary—including flight reservations, hotel bookings, or an invitation letter—can boost your application’s credibility. It reassures immigration that you have a clear plan and a legitimate reason to enter.

11. Real-Life Examples & Scenarios

Below are some fictionalized but realistic scenarios to show how a multiple-entry visa can help different travelers.

1. Example 1: Family Reunions

Fatima lives in London, while her elderly parents reside in Dubai. She applies for a 5-year multi-entry tourist visa, so she can fly in and out whenever they need her. She provides marriage documents (to show her name change, if applicable) and bank statements to prove she can cover travel expenses. Now she can stay up to 90 days each visit, with the option to extend another 90 days without reapplying each time.

2. Example 2: Frequent Business Visits

Arjun runs a technology startup in Bangalore and frequently meets potential investors in Dubai. He secures a 90-day multi-entry visa—perfect for short stays every few months. He doesn’t need a local sponsor and keeps his schedule flexible, entering the UAE multiple times a year to attend conferences and client meetings.

3. Example 3: Tourists Exploring the Emirates

Sara and Marco are digital nomads exploring the Middle East. They choose the 5-year multi-entry visa so they can freely move between the UAE and nearby countries. They provide sufficient bank statements, travel insurance, and proof of accommodation for their first trip. With each visit, they discover new parts of the Emirates without reapplying for fresh visas.

12. What are the Other UAE Visa Types?

1. Tourist Visas (Short-Term & Long-Term)

• Short-Term Tourist Visa: Usually for 30 days, extendable for another 30 days.
• Long-Term Tourist Visa: Offers a 90-day stay, also extendable, but typically valid for single-entry (unless you specifically apply for the multi-entry version).

2. Visit Visas for Family & Friends

• Family Visit Visa: Sponsored by relatives in the UAE, best for short-term visits.
• Friend Visit Visa: Similar but requires a sponsor who is a UAE resident.

3. Transit Visa

• 48-hour and 96-hour transit visas for travelers stopping over in the UAE en route to another destination.
• No extension allowed, purely for brief stays between connecting flights.

4. Residence & Employment Visas

• Residency Visa: Residency Visa is Sponsored by an employer, spouse, or family member.
• Employment Visa: Employment Visa is Tied to a specific employer, requires a valid labor contract and medical fitness test.

5. Golden & Green Visas

• Golden Visa: Golden Visa Offers 10 years of residency, targeting investors, entrepreneurs, specialized talents, and researchers.
• Green Visa: A 5-year residency for highly skilled freelancers and self-employed professionals, doesn’t require a local sponsor.

13. Staying Compliant: Rules, Regulations, and Tips

1. Never Overstay: Overstaying can lead to fines, and might negatively impact future visa applications.
2. Renew or Extend Early: If you need more time, apply for an extension before your current permit expires.
3. Maintain Good Records: Keep copies of your eVisa, passport, and other relevant documents both physically and digitally.
4. Check for Policy Updates: The UAE frequently updates its immigration rules, so always check the UAE Government Portal or official sources for the latest info.

14. FAQs For Multiple Entry Visa

1. Can I Work with a Multiple-Entry Visa?

No, these visas do not permit employment. If you plan to work in the UAE, you’ll need a separate work visa or residency permit sponsored by your employer.

2. Is a Sponsor Ever Required?

For the 90-day multi-entry and 5-year multi-entry tourist visa, no sponsor is required. However, other visa categories (employment, some student visas) do need sponsorship from an employer or educational institution.

3. How Long Can I Stay on Each Entry?

You can stay up to 90 days per entry, with a chance to extend for another 90 days, as long as you do not exceed 180 days in a single year.

4. Is the Deposit Always Refundable?

Yes, if you leave the UAE before your visa expires or you cancel the visa without overstaying, you should receive the AED 2,000 deposit back in full. Processing times for refunds can vary, though.

5. What if My Application Is Denied?

If your application is denied, the UAE authorities typically provide a reason. Common causes include incomplete documentation, insufficient funds, or previous overstays. You can often reapply once you resolve the issues cited.

15. Conclusion

• Multiple-entry visas in the UAE, especially the 5-year and 90-day options, offer unprecedented flexibility for travelers.
• No sponsor is required for these visas, making it easier than ever to come and go for tourism, family visits, and business explorations.
• Important Documents: Valid passport, financial proof, health insurance, and travel ticket.
• Application Channels: GDRFA/ICA websites, smartphone apps, or authorized service centers.
• Stay Duration: Up to 90 days per entry, with possible extensions.
• Crucial to Avoid Overstays: Fines and complications can arise if you don’t follow the visa rules.

By following the step-by-step instructions, adhering to eligibility criteria, and staying organized with your documentation, you can enjoy repeated, hassle-free trips to the UAE. Whether you’re looking to spend extended periods with loved ones, explore the Emirates’ booming real estate market, or attend international conferences, a multiple-entry visa paves the way for countless opportunities in 2025 and beyond.