How to Extend Your UAE Visa in 2026

The UAE — encompassing Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the other Emirates — is a global travel hub attracting tens of millions of visitors annually. Tourist visas can be extended online through official channels, making the process accessible and efficient for most visitors.

Visa Extension at a Glance

Apply at least 2 weeks (14 days) before your visa expires.

Can You Extend Your UAE Visa?

UAE tourist visa holders can apply for a 30-day extension online via the GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) app or website, or through the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) portal. The extension fee is AED 600 (approx. USD 163). Most tourist visas are either 30-day or 60-day on arrival, and a single 30-day extension is usually available for each. In Dubai specifically, the GDRFA app is the recommended tool; in Abu Dhabi and other Emirates, ICP's TAMM or TAMM Abu Dhabi portals are used. Multiple extensions may be possible but are subject to approval — check the specific visa terms.

Extension Requirements and Documents

• Valid UAE tourist visa (not yet expired)
• Emirates ID (if applicable) or passport copy
• UAE mobile number for OTP verification
• Online application via GDRFA Smart app (Dubai) or ICP portal
• Valid email address for confirmation
• Extension fee: AED 600 (payable by credit/debit card online)

Step-by-Step Extension Process

1. Download the GDRFA Smart app or visit the portal
   For Dubai: download GDRFA Smart on iOS/Android. For other Emirates: visit icp.gov.ae.
2. Create an account or log in
   Register with your Emirates number and passport details. Verify via OTP.
3. Select 'Visa Extension'
   Navigate to the visa services section and select 'Extend Tourist Visa'. Enter your current visa number.
4. Upload documents and pay AED 600
   Upload a copy of your passport and pay AED 600 by card. A service fee of AED 28 may also apply.
5. Receive confirmation email
   Once processed (usually within 24–48 hours), you will receive a confirmation email with your new visa validity date. Apply at least 2 weeks before your visa expires.

Overstay Penalties — Important!

UAE overstay fines are significant. The penalty is AED 200 per day for the first day of overstay, then AED 100 per day thereafter, with no maximum cap for standard tourist overstays. In addition to the daily fine, there is a standard AED 100 overstay fee. Overstayers may also be placed on a deportation order and banned from re-entering the UAE. The UAE's immigration system is highly efficient — overstays are always detected at border control on departure. Always extend your visa at least 14 days before it expires to avoid complications.