Synopsis: Tourists with visit visas in the UAE can extend their stay for an additional 30 days, with a maximum extension period of 120 days. This change allows tourists to explore the country’s offerings, participate in numerous activities, and make the most of their visit to the UAE.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced new measures that would allow tourists holding a 30 or 60-day visit visa to extend their stay by an additional 30 days, up to a maximum of 120 days. The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) are implementing this change to give visitors more time to explore and enjoy the country’s unique offerings.

The UAE has been implementing substantial changes in its visa procedures since October of the previous year, marking one of the most significant residency and entry permit reforms introduced by the Immigration and Citizenship Programme (ICP). As part of these changes, the visit visa system has been improved in a number of ways. Individuals with a 30 or 60-day visit visa are now eligible for an additional 30-day stay, allowing them to extend their journey and experience more of what the UAE has to offer, according to the ICA website. A visit visa holder’s maximum extension length has been set at 120 days.

Tourists or visitors should contact the issuing travel agent or sponsor for more information on the visa extension process, required papers, costs, and any other pertinent facts. It is critical to begin this process well before the current visa’s expiration date to provide enough time for the extension to be handled smoothly.

The visitor’s passport is necessary for the extension, and more information can be received from the issuing agent. Depending on the travel agent handling the application, the extension process usually takes a few days after the appropriate paperwork is submitted. However, according to the ICP website, the time to perform the service after meeting the requirements is projected to be 48 hours.

Firose Khan, the operation manager of Arabian Business Centre, detailed the fees involved with visa extensions, stating that the fee for extending the visa for one month is Dh1,050. On their website, the GDRFA breaks down the charges, which include the visa extension fee of Dh600, as well as the value-added tax (5%). Additional fees include the Knowledge Dirham of Dh10, the Innovation Dirham of Dh10, and an internal fee of Dh500.

While the cost may vary according to the sponsored person’s circumstances or other considerations, the ICP website lists a Dh100 request fee, a Dh500 issuance fee, and other applicable expenses.

It is worth mentioning that, as stated on the website, applications for an extension of an entry permit for tourism should be made through tourism organizations. To avoid penalties or complications during the departure procedure, travel companies have recommended travelers to either leave the country before their visa expires or renew their visas.

This extension allows for greater flexibility in a variety of situations, including tourism, family visits, business meetings, and other personal affairs. Visitors can use this extra time to tour the UAE’s historic landmarks, go shopping, savor culinary delights, or simply relax in the UAE’s world-class hospitality.

Tourists can now extend their stay and make the most of their visit to the UAE, thanks to the UAE’s ongoing efforts to improve its visa system and deliver a more visitor-friendly atmosphere. The UAE remains committed to welcoming and accommodating visitors from all over the world, delivering a memorable and fulfilling experience.