When planning a trip to Dubai there are a few things to take into consideration:
PASSPORT
Before you enter Dubai your passport must be valid for at least 2-6 months.
VISAS
There are several types of visas that you may require depending on your reason for visiting. Your country of citizenship will also depend whether a visa is required to enter Dubai.
If you are a citizen of the GCC, you do not need a Visa to enter Dubai.
Nations in the GCC include Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and Saudi Arabia. These nations have very close ties with Dubai and share many political and religious perspectives.
If you are just a resident of the GCC counties, you can get a 30 day Dubai Visa upon entering the Emirate.
TOURIST VISAS
If you are a British Citizen then you do not require a visa to enter Dubai. You will be granted 30 days upon arrival and if you wish to extend your stay then you can apply for an extension and pay locally a fee for an additional 30 days. Please check with United Arab Emirates consulate for latest prices and information on visa requirements.
RESIDENTIAL VISAS
If you are planning to live in Dubai you will need to apply for a Residents Visa which is issued for 3 years and can be extended as long as you are employed or sponsored.
Resident Visas are also required for employment and normally the company you are going to work for will sponsor you and organize this before your arrival. Check first with employer.
To apply for a visa you will be required to take a medical exam and get a health card.
If you are in Dubai on a Visitor Visa and decide you want to stay you can transfer your visa status through the Immigration department.
If you own a property in Dubai then you will also be granted a visa and this would be done through the developer of your property as it would be the developer that would sponsor you.
The DNRD is the official authority that handles visitor matters. The department is part of the Ministry of Interior. They control all Visa requirements as well as the procedures to obtain a Visa. Please go to their site for more visa information.
