Updated: 29 September 2026
Planning to spend more time in the UAE? You may be able to extend your visit or tourist visa while remaining in the country. The answer depends on your visa category, the authority that issued it and how long you have already stayed.
How long can a visa be extended?
For an eligible tourist visa, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) allows one or more extensions, provided the total stay does not exceed 120 days. A visa for visiting a relative or friend may be extended up to a total of 180 days. The same 180-day limit applies to eligible permits for exploring employment or business opportunities. Some entry permits cannot be extended, so check the category printed on your visa before making plans.
Who should submit the application?
Contact the person or organisation that arranged your visa. For a tourist visa, this is generally the issuing travel or tourism company. For a family or friend visit visa, contact your sponsor. Dubai-issued visas are handled through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA Dubai); other eligible permits can be checked through ICP’s services. Have your passport details, photograph and original application documents ready, as requirements vary by category.
What are the extension fees?
ICP lists an AED 100 application fee and an AED 500 extension fee for applicable visa extensions. Special categories have different charges. For Dubai tourist visas, GDRFA lists an AED 600 extension fee plus 5% VAT. An application for someone already inside the UAE may also attract an AED 500 inside-country fee, along with AED 10 each for Knowledge and Innovation Dirham charges. Ask for a full quotation before applying because the final cost depends on the visa and individual circumstances.
What if the visa has already expired?
Check your permitted last day of stay rather than assuming there is an automatic grace period. ICP lists an AED 50 daily fine for overstaying an applicable entry permit. Applying before the deadline gives you time to confirm eligibility, submit any missing documents and receive a decision.
Need help checking your options? Share a copy of your visa and its expiry date with a licensed visa service provider. They can identify the issuing authority, confirm the extension route and explain the total charges before you proceed.
Visa rules and fees can change; confirm the details for your specific permit before applying.
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