Dubai Transit Visa for Indians: Get Yours in 48-96 hours 2025

Dubai transit visa for Indians is an essential travel document for passengers who have a layover of more than 8 hours and wish to travel around the city during their layover. Yes, if the holder of the Indian passport wishes to leave the airport and observe the things in Dubai with the help of connecting flights, they have to apply for the transit visa. Indian citizens need to have a valid passport for a minimum period of six months with onward flight bookings, passport-sized photographs, and accommodation bookings to receive the transit visa in Dubai.

Information about Dubai transit visa cost in India is important during travel planning - 48 hour transit visa is free of charge, whereas 96 hour visa costs AED 50 (approximately INR 1145). From the application process and eligibility criteria to documentation requirements, processing times, and additional important tips, this ultimate guide has everything you need to know about navigating the world-class airports Dubai has to offer in 2025.

Do Indians Need a Transit Visa for Dubai?

Do Indians need a transit visa for Dubai ("Yes" if the visa-free or visa-on-arrival list of the UAE excludes India for regular passport holders and requires Indians for a transit visa if their layover is greater than 8 hours). 

Most Necessary Requirements and Exceptions:

• 8-Hour Threshold Rule: Indians are required to have a transit visa if their stay at the airport (to exit the country) is more than 8 hours; however, less than 8 hours of airside (within the terminal) stay does not require a visa.

• No Pre-approved Dubai Transit Visa Requirements for Indians: For Indian travellers, if you are holding a valid US visa, US green cards, UK residence permits, or EU residence permits, we can make your journey easier by providing a 14-day visa on arrival at Dubai Airport.

• 2025: For Indians from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Singapore, and other countries, the visa on arrival will be added on February 13, as of February 2025.

• Transit Visa Types: The free 48-hour transit visa costs nothing, or AED 50 (approx. INR 1,145-2,999 depending on the service provider) for the 96-hour transit visa, which can be used for 12-30 days from the date of issuance.

• Airside vs City Transit: If staying in the international transit zone at the airport during the layover period, no matter how long, no visa is required; but if passing through immigration to enter Dubai city, a visa is required. 

Also Read: Germany Transit Visa for Indians: Latest Expert Guide

What Are the Types of Dubai Transit Visas Available for Indians in 2025?

Dubai has two types of Dubai transit visa for Indians nationals: 

48-Hour Dubai Transit Visa for Indian Passport Holders

48-Hour Dubai transit visa for Indians Passport Holders consists of:

• This is a free transit visa option best for layovers lasting 8 to 48 hours.

• It lets travellers from India leave the airport and explore the best parts of Dubai.

• Requires sponsorship from a UAE-based airline such as Emirates or Etihad.

• The application should be checked in at least 48 hours before the first departure.

• Perfect for stopovers, where foreign travellers prefer to take shortcuts and enter legally without additional visa fees.

96-Hour Transit Visa: Extended Stopover Option

96-hour Dubai transit visa for Indians extended stopover option is available 

• This visa allows up to 96 hours (4 days) in total, which is enough for layovers for those wanting to tour around Dubai.

• The price for this is AED 50 (about INR1,145 or $14 USD.

• Also requires sponsorship from UAE-based airlines and must be applied for in advance.

• Valid for 12 days from the date of issuance, although some sources indicate a validity of up to 30 days to enter and begin the 96 hours.

• Ideal for those visiting Dubai for a mini visit or for an extended stopover. 

 For longer Dubai stays or for transit travellers, choose the 96-hour visa priced at AED 50. Transit visas cannot be extended once issued, so organise carefully with the Dubai transit visa for indians requirements in mind.

What Documents Are Required for a Dubai Transit Visa for Indians in 2025?

Indian citizens require six documents to apply for a Dubai transit visa for Indians: passport with 6+ months validity and at least two blank pages, copies of passport page 1 & last page in color, passport size, white background photo (35mm x 45mm), onward flight ticket to a third country, proof of stay for more than 24 hours, and visa to third country if required. Also, these Dubai transit visa requirements for indian can be applied for via UAE carriers such as Emirates or Etihad Airways, as Indian passport holders can apply for transit visas only through airlines. 

Document checklist for Initiating a Termination: 

1. Passport: Valid for at least six months from the date of departure and with at least two blank visa pages

2. Passport Copies:  Colored copies of the first page (bio page) and the last page of the passport

3. Photograph: Recent passport-size photograph (35mm x 45mm) in a white background, eighty per cent face coverage

4. Flight Ticket: Confirmed onward booking with Etihad or Emirates, under the same PNR, will be available with an alternative destination.

5. Accommodation Proof: Business Hotel booking confirmation or letter from hotel sponsor (only required if a reduced rate is paid for more than 24 hours).

6. Destination Visa: Valid visa for the third country if the same is needed in the destination country

Passport Requirements for Dubai Transit Visa

Passport requirements for the Dubai transit visa for Indians are as follows.

• Validity Period: Passport must have at least 6 months of validity remaining from the date of departure from the UAE; some airlines require 7 months to be present from the date of application

• Blank Pages: You have to print at least two blank visa pages for entrance and exit stamps.

• Passport Type: Normal Indian Passport Accepted. Diplomatic and official passports have different requirements.

• Colored Copies Required: Present colored copies of the first page (bio page with photograph and personal details) and the last page of the passport, with all details being visible.

• Name Requirements: If the name has one syllable (e.g. only "ABDUL RAHIM" on the bio page), then you need to attach an endorsement page from page 4 of the passport.

• Previous Rejections: Any previous rejections for a UAE visa must not exceed 6 months; otherwise, the applicant will not be considered eligible.

Flight Documentation and Onward Journey Proof

Flight Records and subsequent travel proof are as follows.  

• Exchange Ticket Confirmed: Booking must be made only through UAE-based carriers—Emirates Airlines or Etihad Airways.

• Same PNR Required: Preventing continuity, Same PNR Mandatory (Passenger Name Record): Same PNR Required for Both Arrival and Departure

• Third Destination Rule: An outward ticket must show a departure to a third country different from the country of departure (i.e., Del to London via Dubai will be accepted; Del to Dubai round-trip will not).

• Duration of Layover: Visitor must have a layover of between 8-96 hours - 48-hour visa for 8-48 hour layovers, 96-hour visa for 48-96 hour layovers

• Booking Information: Flight confirmation should match the passport passenger name, flight numbers, arrival time and departure time of the UAE.

• Airport Specifications: Etihad: Zayed International Airport (Abu Dhabi), Emirates: Dubai International Airport

Accommodation and Additional Documents

Accommodation and required documentation are as follows: 

• When Accommodation Proof is Required: Compulsory in the case of transit stay more than 24 hours; NOT required in the case of transit stay less than 24 hours.

• Acceptable Documents: Hotel booking confirmation containing traveller's name, check-in/check-out dates, booking reference number and your QR code (newly required).

• Bank Statements: Bank statements for the last 3 months are required for a transit visa, and processing can take up to 96 hours for applicants with adequate financial ability.

• Destination Country Visa: Valid visa to any third country of transit to be visited after visiting the UAE, if that country requires a visa entry for an Indian citizen.

• Travel Insurance: Comprehensive cover recommended for medical expenses, trip cancellation and repatriation (minimum coverage of $50,000)
  

Whether an Indians need a transit visa for Dubai depends on how long someone will be staying or transit time, as well as what airline they are travelling with.. The Dubai transit visa cost for India is still AED 50 ($11.45 approximately) for 96 96-hour visa, and 48 48-hour visa is free. 

Also Read: Visa Free Transit Facility Singapore: Complete Guide

What Is the Dubai Transit Visa Cost for Indian Citizens in 2025?

Dubai transit visa cost for indian passport holders in 2025 is as follows: 48 hours of transit is free, and 96 hours costs AED 50 (approximately $1,145 or $14). Airline service fees of AED 50 to AED 200, departure tax of AED 30 (most often included with your flight ticket) and optional express processing fees.

Breakdown of Dubai Transit Visa Fees for Indians

 The breakdown of Dubai transit visa fees for Indians is:

Comparing Costs Across Airlines and Booking Channels

Cost Comparison Between Airlines & Booking Channels

• Emirates and Etihad offer direct visa applications on their websites, which are often more affordable than those offered by third-party agencies.

• FlyDubai Disadvantages and Advantages. As a result of service packages, the pricing for FlyDubai could change.

• Flying directly with the airline is advised to ensure low cost and no additional fees.

• Other third-party agencies and travel portals try to increase the price of your trip by adding very high service charges and processing fees.

How to Save Money on Your Dubai Transit Visa?

How to Save Money on Dubai Transit Visa

• If you are only setting a layover, you can get a free 48-hour transit visa.

• Obtain their visa by using official airline portals such as Emirates or Etihad.

• Don't book with travel agents unless you have to.

• Watch out for promotions and bundle deals by airlines.

• Check all fees before paying to ensure there are no hidden fees. 

Although the 48-hour Dubai transit visa for Indians is free of charge, other charges such as airline fare, service cost, and processing fee may add up to AED 50-AED 200, depending on the airline. The Dubai transit visa for Indians costs AED 50 for 96 hours, with additional fees.

How Can Indians Apply for a Dubai Transit Visa in 2025? Latest Step-by-Step Guide

Indian citizens cannot apply directly for a Dubai transit visa. Instead, the visa application must be sponsored and processed by UAE-based airlines such as Emirates, Etihad, FlyDubai, or Air Arabia via their dedicated visa channels or the UAE Government eChannels website. Applications should be submitted 3 to 14 days before departure to ensure smooth processing.

Step-by-Step Application Process Through UAE Airlines

Step-by-Step application process through the UAE airlines is: 

• Book Your Flight with an Airline Based in the UAE: Choose Emirates, Etihad, FlyDubai or Air Arabia as your carrier, as only the following airlines have the privilege to sponsor Dubai transit visas.

• Contact the Airline or use the Manage Booking Portal: Visit the official website or customer service portal of the airline company to enter the visa application section (e.g. Emirates booking management or Etihad visa services).

• Submit Necessary Docs via the Digital: Upload your passport copies, passport-sized photo, confirmed onward flight ticket, etc., as per the airline's directions.

• Pay the Relevant Visa Fees: Pay the cost of a transit visa (it is free for 48 hours or 50 AED for a 96-hour transit visa) plus any costs imposed by the airline on the platform where it is offered.

• Receive Your E-Visa by Email: Once accepted, the visa is usually sent via email within 3-4 working days. Printed Material may be used for presentation during your journey.

What If You're Flying with Non-UAE Airlines?

If you're flying with UAE Airlines, as follows:

• Travellers on airlines such as IndiGo, Air Canada, and Azerbaijan Airlines are facing difficulties, as these airlines can't sponsor transit visas directly.

• Alternatives include:

1. Using good travel agencies such as Musafir.com (service fees ~INR4,000).
2. Calling the management companies of destinations in Dubai
3. Taking the alternative routes, such as UAE-based airlines, simplifying the visa process

UAE eChannels and GDRFA Portal Application

UAE eChannels and GDRFA Portal Application are as follows

1. The eChannels website (smart.gdrfad.gov.ae) is the official UAE government platform for visa processing that airline agents use.

2. Agents will be required to register on this portal, where they can apply, attach documents, and check visa status online.

3. Applicants tend not to have direct access and instead rely on airline/agency sponsorship to apply through. If flying with non-UAE airlines, plan well in advance by approaching reliable travel agents who ensure your Dubai transit visa for Indians application is successful and on time. 

Also Read: Australia Transit Visa from India: Latest Expert Guide

What Is the Processing Time for a Dubai Transit Visa for Indians in 2025? Latest Update

The Dubai transit visa for Indians processing time for Indians usually ranges from 3 to 4 business days after document submission. However, major UAE airlines such as Emirates and Etihad usually process a visa on transit within 48 hours, and express processing services are available for urgent cases up to 24 hours before departure, usually at an extra charge.

Standard vs Express Processing Options

Standard vs Express Processing Options are as follows. 

Factors That Can Delay Your Transit Visa Application

Factors That Can Delay Your Transit Visa Application are: 

• Incomplete or incorrect documents lead to application rejections or delays.

• Peak travel seasons like December holidays or summer vacations can increase processing times by 2-3 days.

• Airline-specific backlogs or technical issues in visa portals.

• Payment failures or passport validity problems require further verification.

Optimal Timeline: When to Apply for Your Transit Visa

Optimal Timeline: When to Apply for Your Transit Visa is: 

• It is recommended to apply 7-14 days before your departure to ensure a stress-free visa process.

• Minimum application window is 48 hours before departure; applying late risks rejection or delays.

• Early applications reduce risks during peak times and ensure timely visa receipt. 

 Timeline:

• Apply on Monday via the Emirates portal → Receive visa by Thursday (standard processing).

• Need a visa fast? Apply on Sunday for express and receive within 24-48 hours. 

Are There Visa-on-Arrival Options for Indian Citizens Transiting Dubai? Experts Insights 2025

Yes, Indian passport holders who possess valid US visas, US green cards, UK residence permits, or EU residence permits (all with a minimum 6 months' validity) are eligible for a 14-day visa on arrival at Dubai airport. This option eliminates the need to obtain a separate transit visa before travel.

Eligibility Criteria for Indians to Get Dubai Visa on Arrival

Eligibility Criteria for Indians to get a Dubai Visa on arrival 

• Holders of a valid US visit visa or a US green card (minimum 6 months validity).

• Holders of a valid UK residence permit (minimum 6 months' validity).

• Holders of a valid EU residence permit (minimum 6 months' validity).

• Indian travellers meeting these criteria can enter Dubai and stay for up to 14 days without a prior transit visa.

How to Apply for a Visa on Arrival at Dubai Airport

Applying for a Visa on Arrival at Dubai Airport in the following way: 

• Upon arrival at Dubai airport, present your passport with a valid qualifying visa or permit.

• Recommended to pre-register online through the UAE’s official GDRFA portal (smart.gdrfad.gov.ae) if possible.

• Pay the visa fee of approximately AED 100-120 (INR 2,200-2,700) at the immigration counter.

• Processing time at the airport usually takes about 20-30 minutes.

• You will receive the e-visa via email shortly after approval.

Comparing the Transit Visa vs the Visa on Arrival for Indians

Transit Visa vs Visa on Arrival for Indians are 

 Also Read: Singapore Transit Visa for Indians: Fee, Process & More

What Are the Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Dubai Transit Visa?

When applying for a Dubai transit visa for Indians, avoid these five common mistakes to ensure your visa is approved on time and without issues. These errors often lead to visa rejection, missed flights, or additional costs.

Mistake #1 - Travel Date Mismatches and Visa Validity Issues

Travel date mismatches and visa validity issues are as follows: 

• Problem: Confusing the visa validity period (typically 12 days from issue) with the allowed stay duration (48 or 96 hours) and applying with travel dates that do not align with the visa validity or booking flights before visa approval causes rejections.
  Consequence: Visa denied, loss of booking fees, travel delays.
  How to Fix: Always check that your entry and exit dates fall within the visa validity and stay duration. Apply for the visa well before booking flights to avoid date conflicts.

Mistake #2 - Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation

Incomplete or incorrect documentation is as follows

• Problem: Missing mandatory colored copies of the passport’s first and last pages (especially required for Indian travellers), incorrect photo specifications (must be recent, white background), missing accommodation proof for stays over 24 hours, or passport validity below 6 months.
  Consequence: Application delays, rejections, or additional documentation requests.
  How to Fix: Use a detailed checklist to gather all required documents, ensure the passport is valid for 6+ months, use proper photo specifications, and provide accommodation proof when applicable.

Mistake #3 - Applying for the Wrong Visa Type or Through the Wrong Channel

Applying for the wrong visa type or through the wrong channel is as follows

• Problem: Selecting the 48-hour visa when a longer stopover requires a 96-hour visa, attempting to apply through embassies rather than UAE-based airlines, booking with non-UAE carriers that cannot sponsor visas, or confusing tourist visas with transit visas.
  Consequence: Visa refusal or needing to reapply via the correct channels, wasting time and money.
  How to Fix: Understand your layover duration and apply for the correct visa type. Always apply via sponsoring UAE airlines like Emirates or Etihad. Avoid third-party embassies or non-UAE airline applications.

Mistake #4 - Not Meeting Minimum Layover Requirements

Follow airline guidelines closely and double-check all requirements to avoid common pitfalls when applying for the Dubai transit visa for indians. 

• Problem: Applying for a transit visa with a layover under 8 hours (unnecessary if staying airside) or planning a stay over 96 hours without a tourist visa. Additionally, not having a confirmed onward ticket to a destination other than the origin results in refusal.
  Consequence: Application rejection and denied airport entry.
  How to Fix: Verify that your layover duration falls between 8 and 96 hours for transit visa eligibility, and ensure that your onward tickets are confirmed and that the destination differs from your origin country.

Mistake #5 - Last-Minute Applications and Poor Timeline Planning

Many visa rejections arise from document errors, insufficient application time, or applying via the wrong channels.

• Problem: Applying less than 48 hours before flight departure or expecting instant visa issuance. Not accounting for weekends, holidays, and regional delays causes processing failures.
  Consequence: Visa not processed in time, missed flights, costly rebookings.
  How to Fix: Apply at least 3 to 14 days before departure. Use express processing if urgently needed, but avoid last-minute applications altogether.

What Are the Do's and Don'ts for Indian Travellers with Dubai Transit Visa?

Indian travellers with a Dubai transit visa must carry required documents at all times, follow airport and city rules, and plan layovers carefully; do not overstay, carry prohibited items, miss onward flights, or use a transit visa for any business activity. 

Essential Do’s for Indian Transit Visa Holders

Essential do’s for indian transit visa holders are as follows: 

• Verify that visa validity and stay duration (48 or 96 hours) align exactly with your entry and exit times before departure to avoid compliance issues.

• Carry digital and printed copies of your passport bio page, visa approval, and onward ticket; officials may request them at immigration and boarding gates.

• For layovers of 24 hours or more, keep a confirmed hotel booking or host details to show your intended stay and return timing for your next flight.

• Clarify baggage handling: single-itiinerary bookings are usually tagged to the final destination; on separate tickets, you may need to collect and re‑check, or book paid baggage transfer services.

• If switching terminals or airlines, consider Emirates baggage transfer or Marhaba services to avoid unnecessary exits and save time.

• Plan to arrive at your gate on time; Emirates recommends arriving 60 minutes before departure for Economy/Premium Economy and 45 minutes for First/Business.

Critical Don’ts to Avoid Penalties and Issues

Critical Don’ts to Avoid Penalties and Issues are as follows 

• No overstaying the visa window; transit visas are single‑entry, non‑extendable permits intended only for short stays before onward travel.

• Do not carry banned items (narcotics, obscene materials, unlicensed weapons) or restricted goods without permits; violations can lead to confiscation and legal penalties.

• Do not miss your onward flight; missed connections can inadvertently result in an overstay and require new visas or fines to exit.

• Do not treat a transit visa as a tourist or business visa; for stays beyond 96 hours or for any business activity, apply for the appropriate visa instead.

• Don’t exceed duty‑free allowances for alcohol/tobacco; use official guidance and declaration tools like iDeclare or airline dangerous goods advisories.

• Do not ignore instructions from immigration, customs, or security officials; non‑compliance can delay or deny boarding and entry.

Dubai Cultural Etiquette and Legal Considerations

Dubai transit visa rules for indians apply regardless of the visa type chosen or the “Dubai transit visa cost for india,” and help answer “do indians need a transit visa for dubai” while reinforcing “Dubai transit visa requirements for indian” travellers in transit through DXB. 

• Dress modestly in public spaces and avoid behaviour that could breach public decency; Article 358 provides for penalties for indecent acts in public.

• Avoid public displays of affection, offensive language, or disruptive conduct, and follow on‑site signage and staff directions in airports and public areas.

• Alcohol consumption is limited to licensed venues; public intoxication is an offence, and carrying alcohol must comply with customs allowances and local rules.

Dubai transit visa rules for indians apply regardless of the visa type chosen or the “Dubai transit visa cost for india,” and help answer “do indians need a transit visa for Dubai” while reinforcing “Dubai transit visa requirements for indian” travellers in transit through DXB.

Also Read: Cost of Transit Visa for USA: New Fees & Process Guide

When Should Indians Choose a Tourist Visa Instead of a Transit Visa for Dubai?

Choose a Dubai tourist visa instead of a transit visa if your stay exceeds 96 hours (4 days), you're arriving directly in Dubai as your final destination, you need visa extension flexibility, or you plan to conduct business activities. Tourist visas offer 30-day, 60-day, or 90-day validity starting from INR 7,499, providing significantly more flexibility than the restrictive transit options.

Transit Visa vs Tourist Visa: Key Differences

Scenarios Where a Tourist Visa Is the Better Choice

Scenarios Where a Tourist Visa Is the Better Choice are: 

• Stay Duration Exceeds 4 Days: If planning to explore Dubai for 5 days or more, a tourist visa is required, as transit visas are limited to 96 hours.

• Flexible Return Dates: When you don't have confirmed departure plans and want the freedom to extend your stay based on how much you're enjoying Dubai.

• Multiple UAE Entries Needed: If your itinerary involves leaving and re-entering the UAE, multiple-entry tourist visas are available.

• Business Activities Planned: Transit visas prohibit any business-related activities; tourist visas allow attendance at conferences, meetings, or networking events.

• Extension Possibility Desired: Tourist visas can be extended for up to 90 days in total, while transit visas offer no extension options.

• Dubai as a Final Destination: When Dubai is your primary destination rather than a connection point, tourist visas are the appropriate choice.

• Booking Accommodation Before Confirming Flights: Tourist visas provide flexibility if you want to secure hotel bookings before finalising travel dates.

When does a Transit Visa Make More Financial Sense?

A transit visa makes more financial sense when: 

• Confirmed layover under 96 hours: Perfect for travellers with 8 to 96-hour layovers who want to briefly explore Dubai before continuing their journey.

• Fixed onward flight already booked: When you have confirmed connecting flights and no intention to extend your Dubai stay.

• Budget-conscious travel: Save INR 6,000 to INR 17,000 compared to tourist visa costs, making transit visas ideal for cost-sensitive travellers.

• Quick Dubai exploration during connection: Ideal for seeing major attractions like Burj Khalifa or Dubai Mall during a layover without the expense of a full tourist visa.

• No business activities planned: Transit visas suffice when your purpose is purely leisure sightseeing during a stopover.

• Specific about travel dates: When you're confident about your itinerary with no possibility of date changes or extensions.

How to Track Your Dubai Transit Visa Application Status from India in 2025?

Indian travellers applying for a Dubai transit visa for indians can track their application status primarily through their sponsoring airline’s management portal or customer service. Here’s how to do it with major UAE carriers:

Tracking Through Emirates Airline Portal

Monitoring through the Emirates airline portal is as follows

1. Visit Emirates.com and log in to the Manage Booking section.

2. Enter your booking reference number and last name.

3. Navigate to the Visa Section within your booking details.

4. View your visa application status, which could show: Submitted, Under Review, Approved, or Issued.

5. Download or print your e-visa when approved.

6. You will also receive email updates at each stage.

Monitoring Your Application via Etihad and Other UAE Airlines

Application via eihad and other UAE airlines is as follows:

• Visit Etihad’s visa services webpage or contact customer care.

• Use the booking reference and passenger details to check the status.

• FlyDubai and Air Arabia follow similar tracking via booking portals and send email notifications.

• Airlines typically update visa status within 3-4 business days, and express options may shorten this to 24-48 hours.

What to Do If Your Visa Application Is Delayed?

If your visa application is delayed, then: 

• Contact your airline’s visa department immediately to inquire.

• Confirm that all documents were submitted correctly and that payments were processed.

• Consider that peak travel seasons or additional security checks might extend timelines by several days.

• If processing exceeds 5-7 days, escalate to the airline's customer support. 

Also Read: Italy Visa Application Status Guide: Track & Updates

What Happens If Your Dubai Transit Visa Gets Rejected? Experts Insights & Tips 2025

If your Dubai transit visa application is rejected, you will receive an email notification specifying the reason.

Top 5 Reasons for Dubai Transit Visa Rejection

5 reasons for Dubai transit visa rejection are 

1. Incomplete or unclear documentation (e.g., blurry passport scans, missing pages).

2. Insufficient passport validity (less than 6 months from travel date).

3. Travel dates do not align with your visa application timeframe.

4. Previous UAE immigration violations or overstays affecting eligibility.

5. Suspicion of non-transit intentions, such as no confirmed onward ticket.

Immediate Steps to Take After Visa Rejection

Steps to take after visa rejection are: 

• Review the rejection email carefully to understand the specifics.

• Contact the airline’s visa department immediately for clarification.

• Assess whether you can correct the issues and reapply in time.

• Explore alternative flight routes that avoid a transit stop in Dubai.

• Consider applying for a tourist visa if your trip requires it.

• Check airline policies for ticket refunds or rebooking options.

How to Successfully Reapply After Rejection

Successfully reapply after rejection is:

• Address all rejection reasons with corrected documents.

• Apply at least 5-7 days before travel to allow processing time, or use express processing if urgent.

• Provide supporting letters explaining your travel purpose, if required.

• Confirm all itinerary details and document consistency before submission.

Can You Extend Your Dubai Transit Visa Beyond 48 or 96 Hours?

 No, Dubai transit visas for Indians are absolutely non-extendable. Once the 48-hour or 96-hour validity expires, you must leave the UAE. Extensions, visa conversions, or exemptions are not permitted.

Why Are Transit Visas Non-Extendable?

UAE immigration enforces strict policies to maintain the transit visa’s short-term purpose, security tracking, and the clear distinction from tourist or work visas.

Overstay Consequences and Penalties for Indians

Overstay consequences and penalties for indians are

• A fine of AED 50 per day is imposed from July 2025 for each day of overstaying.

• Penalties must be paid before departure.

• Extended overstays may lead to deportation, blacklisting, and future travel bans.

• Airlines may deny boarding if your visa validity has expired.

Alternatives If You Need to Stay Longer Than 96 Hours

Alternatives for staying longer than 96 hours are as follows: 

• Apply for a tourist visa if your plans require a more extended stay.

• Exit the UAE before your transit visa expires and re-enter with a tourist visa if needed.

• Rebook flights if unexpected, prolonged layovers occur.

• Medical emergencies may allow limited grace, based on hospital documentation.

• Flight cancellations fall under airline responsibility; visas cannot be extended for this reason. 

Also Read: Dubai Visa Check Online by Passport Number: New Guide 

What Are the Latest 2025 Updates for Dubai Transit Visa Policies for Indians?

Key 2025 updates for Dubai transit visa for indians include doubled overstay penalties (AED 50/day from July 2025), expanded visa-on-arrival eligibility (February 2025), enhanced digital application systems, and increased airline service fees across UAE carriers.

July 2025 Overstay Penalty Increase

Overstay Penalty Increase is as follows: 

• Penalty doubled from AED 25 to AED 50 per day (approximately INR 1,145 daily) effective July 16, 2025, for all visa overstays, including transit visas.

• Financial impact example: A 5-day overstay now costs AED 250 (INR 5,725) versus the previous AED 125 (INR 2,863), plus additional exit permit fees of AED 250-350

• Stricter enforcement: The penalty increase signals the UAE's stronger immigration compliance measures and serves as a deterrent against visa violations

• No grace period: Transit visa holders face immediate fines from day one of overstay, unlike some other visa categories

February 2025 Visa-on-Arrival Expansion for Indians

Visa-on-Arrival Expansion for Indians are as follows: 

• New eligible countries added: Indians holding valid residence permits from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, and South Korea can now obtain a 14-day visa-on-arrival, effective February 13, 2025

• Existing eligibility maintained: Indians with US visas, US green cards, UK residence permits, or EU residence permits continue to qualify for visa-on-arrival (introduced January 2024)

• Requirements: An Indian passport must have a minimum of 6 months' validity, and a foreign residence permit must be currently valid

• Benefit for diaspora: This expansion significantly benefits Indian expats and professionals working in these countries, eliminating the need for pre-approved transit visas

Digital Processing Improvements and eChannels Updates

Digital processing improvements and channel updates are:

• Enhanced eChannels portal: The UAE government upgraded its digital visa application system (smart.gdrfad.gov.ae) with faster automated processing and improved user interfaces

• Mobile app integration: UAEICP and Dubai Now apps now offer streamlined visa status tracking and application submission for iOS and Android devices.

• Reduced paperwork: Digital document uploads and e-visa delivery via email eliminate physical visa stamping requirements for most applicants

• Faster processing: Automated systems enable 24-48 hour processing times for transit visa approvals compared to the previous 3-4 day standards

Airline Service Fee Trends in 2025

Airline service fee trends are as follows:

• Fee increases: UAE carriers, including Emirates, Etihad, and FlyDubai, now charge AED 50-200 in service fees for transit visa processing, up from the previous AED 30-150 range

• Total cost impact: The Dubai transit visa cost for indian travellers now ranges from AED 50-250 (INR 1,145-INR 5,745), depending on visa type and airline, affecting budget planning

• Transparency improvements: Airlines now provide more precise fee breakdowns during booking, separating base visa costs from processing charges

• VFS processing fees: Third-party agencies like VFS Global charge additional fees for visa facilitation services beyond airline charges.

How TerraTern Can Help with Your Dubai Transit Visa?

TerraTern is a company that provides professional support to Indians going through the process of the Dubai transit visa in 2025. Our skilled consultants offer effective, practical assistance at all levels.

• Step-by-step instructions on visa application, document preparation and eligibility checks.  
• Customised services on transit and tourist visa, so that you do not have to go through the wrong channel.  
• Direct liaison with the airlines in the UAE to sponsor visas and expedite the process. 
• Technical guidance on how not to make the most frequent errors, including date discrepancies or unfinished paperwork.  
• Visa on arrival queries and recent policy updates are answered quickly.  

TerraTern has a high success rate and specialised consultations, and therefore makes the visa process stress-free so that you can concentrate on your travelling plans. Our clear-cut policy, attentive service and trustworthy paperwork have delighted clients with their straightforward way of handling complicated visa procedures, making it a painless process.

Conclusion

The Dubai transit visa for Indians remains essential in 2025 for layovers of 8 hours or more. Do Indians need a transit visa for Dubai? Yes, unless holding a US/UK/EU residence permit, you qualify for a visa-on-arrival. The Dubai transit visa requirements for Indian passport holders include a valid passport (with 6+ months of validity), confirmed onward tickets, proof of accommodation, and passport photos, with applications processed through UAE-based airlines such as Emirates or Etihad. The Dubai transit visa cost for Indian travellers ranges from free (48-hour visa) to AED 50 (INR 1,145) for 96-hour visas, plus airline service fees. Contact TerraTern for more information.