Family / spouse for British citizens travelling to United Arab Emirates
Family visits may use the on-arrival visitor visa. Dependants of residents use family sponsorship visas.
For a full British citizen passport. Other British passport types can follow a different rule.
Key facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Who it's for | Visiting family or joining a resident relative. · UAE government portal: visa types (opens in a new tab) |
| Maximum stay | 90 days in 180 days for visits; family visas match sponsor status. · UAE government portal: visa types (opens in a new tab) |
| Cost | Visitor entry is free on arrival per GOV.UK. Dependent and family visas: see UAE visa types (opens in a new tab) for fees. · UAE government portal: visa types (opens in a new tab) |
| Processing time | Visitor: on arrival. Family residence: processed by the sponsor through ICA or GDRFA — timelines vary. · UAE government portal: visa types (opens in a new tab) |
| How to apply | Immigration on arrival or sponsor through ICA/GDRFA. · UAE government portal: visa types (opens in a new tab) |
Each fact above is linked to the authority that sets the rule. Entry Visa Guide does not take applications.
Apply only on the government website linked above. This site does not issue visas or travel authorisations and does not take applications. Other websites charge their own service fee on top of any government charge.
How to apply
- For holidays, travel with a 6-month-valid passport.
- For dependant visas, the resident sponsor applies.
- Keep passport stamps to prove legal stay.
FAQ
Can I live with my UAE partner on a visit visa?
Long-term stay needs the correct residence visa.
Can newborns travel on parent visas?
Check ICA rules for dependants.
Sources
- GOV.UK: United Arab Emirates entry requirements (opens in a new tab)
- UAE government portal: do you need an entry permit or a visa? (opens in a new tab)
Independent guide, not legal advice. Entry Visa Guide is an independent information site. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or run by any government or public authority. Always check official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Report an error.