Being one of the most visited cities in the world, Dubai offers visitors the perfect mix of a cosmopolitan city with traditional aspects of the local culture. Citizens of all GCC countries can travel to UAE without a visa. However, expatriates who are residing in GCC countries like Qatar should apply for a tourist visa to visit Dubai or other emirates in the UAE.
You can either apply for a UAE visit visa yourself through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP Smart Services) or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA Dubai). Another option is to be sponsored by a UAE resident.
In this article, we will explain the requirements and step-by-step process to apply Dubai Visa for Qatar Residents using the Dubai Government’s GDRFA website.
- Dubai Visa For Qatar Residents: Eligibility Requirements
- Dubai Visa Requirements For Qatar Residents
- Dubai Tourist Visa Fee
- Qatar Residents Dubai Visa Validity
- How To Apply Online Dubai Visa For Qatar Residents
- Processing Times
- How To Track The Visa Status
- How To Apply Dubai Visa For Dependents
- Fine For Dubai Visa Overstay
- Countries Eligible For Dubai Visa On Arrival
- Important Notes:
- Frequently Asked Questions
15 FEBRUARY 2023 UPDATE: We have updated this article with new steps and screenshots as GDRFAD website has changed their website navigation.
Dubai Visa For Qatar Residents: Eligibility Requirements
- The passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the arrival date.
- The Qatar ID must be valid for at least 3 months from the arrival date
- The profession should be mentioned on the Qatar ID.
- The visitor should be arriving from a GCC country.
- The visitor should not have any restrictions preventing his/her entry to the UAE.
- Although it is not stated, some blue-collar professions (such as labour, cleaner, etc.) may not be eligible without a sponsor. The approved list of professions is not publicly available.
Dubai Visa Requirements For Qatar Residents
The following are the requirements to apply for a Dubai visa for Qatar residents:
- Passport
- Qatar ID
- Passport size photo (white background)
- A credit/debit card to pay the entry fee
Dubai Tourist Visa Fee
The total cost for Dubai Visa for Qatar Residents (including all charges) will be AED 252.50. The breakdown is as follows:
Application Fee | 100 |
Issuance Fee | 100 |
Service Fee | 50 |
Service Fee (VAT) | 2.50 |
TOTAL | AED 252.50 |
Qatar Residents Dubai Visa Validity
The entry permit issued to Qatar residents is valid for 30 days from the date of issue, and they are allowed to stay for 30 days. Visas are extendable once for a period of 30 days
How To Apply Online Dubai Visa For Qatar Residents
Step 1: Go to the GDRFAD website
The website link is: www.gdrfad.gov.ae

Step 2: Click on the “face icon”
You can find this below the “E-Participation” link.

Step 3: Click on the “Individuals” tab

Step 4: Click on “Register Now”
If you are a first-time user, click on “Register Now”. Or else you can login using your account credentials.

Step 5: Register as a New User
Select the “Email” tab, as you will register using your email ID.

- Choose a username, and enter your first name, last name, email, date of birth and password.
- Click on “Send OTP”.
- You will receive a verification code in your email.
- Enter that OTP and click “Register”.
Now log in using your username and password. Make sure to choose the “Individuals” tab as “Establishment / Typing Center” would be selected by default.

Agree to the terms and conditions by clicking “OK”.
NOTE: If you see any error, click on your username and select “Dashboard”
Step 6: Click on “New Application”
You can see this as a green button on your dashboard.

Step 7: Select “New GCC Entry Permit”
Select the “New GCC Entry Permit” option from the drop-down. Click on “Apply”.

Step 8: Enter your details in the application form

Visa Details: The Person Type will be “GCC Residents”.
GCC Residency Details: The Residence Number will be your QID number. For Issue Country, select “109-Qatar”. Enter the Qatar ID issue date and expiry date.
GCC Trip Details: Enter your travel details like the port of arrival, date of arrival, arrival from, and booking reference number (flight ticket reference number).
GCC Sponsor Details: Enter your Qatari sponsor details like sponsor type, sponsor name, and address.
Passport Details: Enter your passport details like type, number, current nationality and previous nationality. Click on “Search Data”. If no data is found, you will need to manually enter the data.
Note that for a UAE visa, you must enter three names, including the name of your father. Arabic names will automatically be filled in. If not, click on the English to Arabic symbol.
Applicant Details: Enter your personal details like your mother’s name, marital status, religion, faith, education, profession and first language.
Contact Details: Enter your contact details like email, mobile number, and address inside UAE. If you are staying in a hotel, give the hotel’s address.
Click on “Continue”.
Step 9: Upload your documents
You will need to upload the following:
- Personal Photo: Passport size photo
- Sponsored GCC Residency: Qatar ID front and back
- Sponsored Passport Page 1: First page of your passport
The file types allowed are JPG, PNG and PDF. The maximum size of each file is 100 KB.
If you have more documents, you can upload them as “Others”.

To avoid any delay in application processing, make sure the uploaded documents are valid and clear.
Step 10: Pay the required fee
The final step is to pay the visa fee using a bank card (credit or debit). The total fee is AED 252.50.
You will receive the updates by email. Once your application has been approved, the electronic visa will be sent to your registered email address.
Processing Times
Usually, the process takes 24 to 72 hours from the time of submitting the application and completing the payment of the fee.
How To Track The Visa Status
You can track the status of your application by going to your dashboard and clicking on “Status Inquiry”.

How To Apply Dubai Visa For Dependents
Once the main applicant’s visa is approved, you can apply for dependents using the same account.
- From the dashboard, click on “New Application”.
- Under Myself, select “Existing Application”.
- Under Dependents, select “New Applicant”.
- Follow the same process. For GCC Sponsor details, provide your details.
Fine For Dubai Visa Overstay
Fine for overstaying a Dubai visit visa is AED 100 per day plus AED 200 for an outpass.
In case the overstaying is less than 30 days, you can pay either at Dubai Airports while exiting the country or at GDRFAD Headquarters. In case if it is more than 30 days, you can pay only at GDRFAD Headquarters.
Countries Eligible For Dubai Visa On Arrival
Please note that citizens of the following countries are eligible for a Dubai visa on arrival and do not need to apply:
Australia | Finland | Lithuania | San Marino |
Austria | France | Luxembourg | Singapore |
Belgium | Germany | Malaysia | Slovakia |
Brunei | Greece | Malta | Slovenia |
Bulgaria | Hong Kong | Monaco | South Korea |
Canada | Hungary | Netherlands | Spain |
China | Iceland | New Zealand | Sweden |
Croatia | Ireland | Norway | Switzerland |
Cyprus | Italy | Poland | The Vatican |
Czech Republic | Japan | Portugal | United Kingdom |
Denmark | Latvia | Russia | United States of America |
Estonia | Liechtenstein | Romania |
Important Notes:
- A Qatar resident whose profession has changed after receiving his entry permit will not be allowed entry.
- In the event the Qatar ID is expired or cancelled upon arrival, the visa holder will not be granted entry to the UAE.
- Visitors not holding return/onward tickets could be refused entry.
- Passengers accompanying a “GCC Resident” or a “GCC Citizen” must travel with the sponsor in order to use the e-visa. This includes children, housemaids and unemployed applicants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Qatar residents need visas for Dubai?
Yes, Just like all expatriates living in GCC countries, Qatar residents should also apply for a visa to enter Dubai.
How much is the fee for Dubai Visa for Qatar Residents?
The total fee including all charges is AED 252.50.
Related Articles:
- How To Apply for Dubai Visa For Hayya Card Holders (Through GDRFA)
- How To Get UAE Visa With Hayya Card
- How To Get Free Saudi Visa With Hayya Card
- How To Get Free Oman Visa With Hayya Card
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Hi, I am planning to go buy Road to UAE from Qatar. In visa application under section of GCC trip details, arrival emirate is fixed as “Dubai” and Port of Arrival field showing only Dubai entry points.
Via road travel first we should enter Abu Dhabi, whether visa obtained through smart.gdrfad.gov.ae website valid for road travel and to enter Via abu Dhabi.
Regards,
Hi Nasiruddin, Normally it is allowed. You can double check with GDRFA helpline (as policies keep changing).
Hi, Indian citizens holding USA business/tourist visa can get visa on arrival. Is it applicable if we travel by road as well from Qatar.
Hi Vasu, We are not sure as it is normally available at airports only. Kindly confirm this with UAE’s ICP Helpline: https://icp.gov.ae/en/contact-us/
Do UK expats living in Qatar require a visa before traveling to Dubai by car? or you could get a visa on arrival to Abu Dhabi before getting to Dubai!!?
Hi Asad, British citizens can get visa on arrival if your passport is valid for 6 months.
Please share the steps for driving from Doha to Dubai by road
and required documents and procedure
Hi Rojo, The car should be under your name or you should have NOC from the owner. You will need UAE visa and Saudi multiple entry visa (as you will be coming back) and car insurance for both Saudi and UAE. You can get insurance at the border.
Hi. I need assistance to apply for a Tourist Visa for my wife and I. We are residents in Qatar but South African Citizens. We plan to travel on 3/03/2023 to 8/03/2023.
Please, can you assist
Hi Sewlall, For Dubai tourist visa, you can follow the above steps online. You can also contact any travel agency if needed.
My application has been rejected.. how can I know why rejection.
Hi Mohamed Suhaib, Please contact the GDRFA helpline. Their contacts are on their website.
Hello, I follow your steps but I am always stuck at step 6. I don’t find page to register as New User. Please advise..
Hi Gustana, They have changed their website navigation recently. You can use this link: https://smart.gdrfad.gov.ae/HomePage.aspx?GdfraLocale=en-US
Thanks for bringing this to our attention. We have updated the article now.
what is the tourist visa fees for children below 12 years old for UAE?
Hi,
I have applied for the Entry permit for one of my friend fro Sudan. But unfortunately Ientered the name wrongly and application status is approved. Arabic name and all other details are correct but English name wrong. Can he travel with that permit or is there any option to edit? Please reply
Hi Abdul Majeed, If there is significant change from the name on passport, it is better to fix that. You can contact GDRFA helpline on their websiite.
Dear Doha Guide
We have a GCC (Qatar) Resident Visa
Need To Apply 1 month tourist visa UAE
My Son Passport has Only
First Page
GIVEN NAME ( Two Words) MOHAMED RAYHAN
NO SURNAME
Last Page
Father Name XYZ
Mother Name ABC
How to Fill Visa Online to Travel UAE By Road
How to Apply visa application in Given name and Family Name
Note: Already we have KSA Visa
Hi Hameed, You can use Father’s name in place of the Surname.
Hello, UK expat here planning to drive from Doha in to Dubai. I know UK citizens are entitled to a free visa on arrival when flying in to Dubai. Is it this the same for driving to Dubai. Or is there a cost for taking the driving route?
Hi Andrew, By road, you will be entering through Abu Dhabi. You can confirm the requirements through ICP website helpline: https://icp.gov.ae/en/contact-us/
Brother,
applied UAE visa for my wife through this site http://www.gdrfad.gov.ae
attached the required documents above you mentioned.
received the notification to upload “COPY OF THE ESTABLIS HMENT OF THE SPONSOR” may i know what it is?
Hi Rifahath, If you are a GCC Resident and your wife is under your sponsorship, your visa should be approved first. If this is already approved, upload that visa. Or else you should be applying for your wife’s visa using your own account. Details are given above: “How to apply for Dubai visa for Dependents”.
Urgent!!!
Hello Everyone,
I will travel from Doha to Sharjah as GCC resident. Applying to visa but Dubai is selected only and there is no Sharjah airport option. Should I proceed with Dubai airport option or any advise?
Thanks.
Hi Arda, You can proceed with the Dubai option. The visa is valid for entry to any port in UAE.
Dear Doha Guides
Please provide details for Travel insurance for UAE by Road from Qatar.
Thanks in advance
Regards
Amzad.
Hi Amzad, If you are buying health insurance for visa purposes, you need to buy it online from any UAE-based insurance company. For motor vehicle insurance, you can buy it at the border.
Dear Doha Guide
Planning to travel from Qatar to UAE by road, Which port to be selected in port of arrival.
Please advise.
Regards
Amzad
Hi Amzad, Only Hatta Land Border is listed (everything else is seaport or airport). Please check with GDRFAD support through chat: https://www.gdrfad.gov.ae/en/contact-information
Thanks for your reply…
As informed by GDRFAD, the web site is only for Dubai Airport & Hatta Border only.
For other Emirates like Abu Dhabi ICP department website to be used for Visa application or to contact Al Ghuwaifat Border to check if they give exception to use Dubai Visa at: 00971600522222 or 0097128723288.
Regards
Amzadkhan.
Thanks for sharing your experience Amzad.
Hi Amjad , I am planning to go from Doha to Dubai by road with visa issued by GDRFA Dubai. What is your experience ? Did they allow you to pass thru Abu Dhabi border ?
once approved then how to obtain a visa/ entry permit from the website?
Hi Mohammed, Log in to the same account and you can see your application on the dashboard. The visa can be downloaded from there.
Please share your no. To talk on our queries
Hi Monika, For questions regarding Dubai Visa, please contact GDRFA helpline: https://www.gdrfad.gov.ae/en/contact-information
Dear Doha Guide,
Do I need to take Medical or Travel Insurance for UAE tourist visa?
Thanks,
Hi Ramesh, If you do not have private insurance that covers out-of-country medical expenses, it is better to buy insurance online. Sometimes airlines are asking this during check-in. You can get 40 days of insurance for around 50 QAR. If you are not planning to take insurance, please double-check with your airline.
Dear Doha guide,
What I need to select in port of arrival while filing the visa form as there is no option of Abu Dhabi, Dubai is automatic selected and in the port of arrival only hatta border option is . Is this visa valid in UAE also or only in Dubai?
Thanks,
im looking for the same, Anybody got this visa recently?
Hi Kumar, The visa is valid anywhere in UAE.
Dear Doha Guide,
Is this Visa a multiple entry visa to UAE or single entry visa to UAE?
(I’m planning to drive to Oman through UAE, therefore will I be able to enter UAE again when I’m returning back from Oman)?
Hi Raushan, This is a single-entry visa. There are multiple entry tourist visas which you can apply through travel agents.
Dear Raushan,
I am still not able to find the answer for this. Please let me know in case you get any clarity on this.
thank you,
If we are travelling by road, then what needs to be selected in port of arrival as there is no option of Al Ghuwaifat border.
Hi Kumar,
I’m facing the same issue, were you able to find the answer for this?
Also, do you know whether they will issue the tourist visa if we are travelling by road? from Qatar to Dubai or Saudi to Dubai?
Thank You,
Hi
I am planning to drive to UAE from Qatar via KSA. I do have a Hayya card. Do I need a visa for UAE and KSA please.
Hi Manjula, You will need visas for both KSA and UAE. Note that currently KSA and UAE are not issuing Hayya visas to Qatar residents (only international fans can get such visas). If you are a Qatar resident, you need to apply for regular GCC Resident visas.