Dubai Visit Visa for Relatives and Friends: Requirements and Fees
Dubai has a specific single-entry visit visa for someone coming to see a relative or friend. The official service offers 30-, 60- or 90-day stays, but the correct route depends on the relationship, the UAE resident host's income, and the evidence submitted. This guide separates the entry permit's validity from the permitted stay and turns the current ICP and GDRFA Dubai requirements into a practical plan.
What the relative or friend visit visa covers
GDRFA Dubai describes a single-entry visa for visiting a relative or friend for 30, 60 or 90 days. ICP also says the entry permit must normally be used to enter the UAE within 60 days of issue; that 60-day validity is not the same as the visitor's chosen stay. This route is purpose-specific, so it should not be treated as a generic tourist visa or as permission to work.
Who can host and the current income thresholds
For an application hosted by a foreign resident, ICP lists a minimum monthly income of AED 4,000 for a first-degree relative, AED 8,000 for a second- or third-degree relative, and AED 15,000 for a friend. ICP identifies first degree as parent, spouse, son or daughter; second degree includes siblings, grandparents and grandchildren; third degree includes uncles, aunts and cousins. Proof of kinship and the reason for the visit must match the selected relationship.
Documents to prepare before applying
The official pages call for a passport valid for at least six months, a personal photo, UAE-valid health insurance and a return or onward ticket. Depending on the case, prepare proof of relationship such as a marriage or birth certificate, a clear visit justification, and the host's salary certificate, employment contract or partnership contract. GDRFA also lists a home-country identity card for certain nationalities. Requirements can differ by profile, so check the live service card before uploading.
Dubai fees, deposit and processing estimate
GDRFA Dubai currently lists visa fees of AED 200 for 30 days, AED 300 for 60 days and AED 400 for 90 days, plus 5% VAT. It also lists a refundable financial security deposit of AED 1,000, deposit-related service charges, insurance of AED 40, AED 60 or AED 90 by duration, and extra charges when the visitor is already inside the UAE. The page warns that the total can vary. Its 48-hour completion estimate applies to complete applications and is not an approval guarantee.
How to apply and avoid preventable delays
Use GDRFA Dubai smart services or an Amer centre for a Dubai application: sign in, choose the relative-or-friend visit service, enter consistent details, upload the required evidence, pay the displayed amount and track the request. Before submission, confirm the relationship degree, income evidence, name spellings, passport validity, chosen stay and travel dates. Rules and fees can change, and approval remains with the responsible authority. Verify the current ICP or GDRFA service card before paying or booking non-refundable travel.
Frequently asked questions
Can a UAE resident host a friend for this Dubai visit visa?
Yes, subject to the official conditions. ICP currently lists a minimum monthly income of AED 15,000 when the visitor is a friend of a foreign resident, along with supporting documents and a valid host file.
How long can the visitor stay?
The single-entry service offers a selected stay of 30, 60 or 90 days. Do not confuse this with the entry permit's usual 60-day validity window for entering the UAE after issue.
Is the AED 1,000 security deposit the whole visa price?
No. GDRFA Dubai lists the deposit separately from the visa fee, VAT, insurance and service charges. The final amount can vary by the applicant's circumstances, including whether the visitor is already inside the UAE.
Does a relative or friend visit visa allow work in the UAE?
No. It is a visit-purpose entry visa, not work authorisation. Anyone intending to work must use the appropriate work and residence process.
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