Picture used for illustrative purposes only.

Emadeddin Khalil, Staff Reporter

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) explained that the UAE issues two types of transit visas: one is for 48 hours, which is free of charge, and another is for 96 hours for Dhs50 only.

It pointed out that transit visas are sponsored only by the UAE-based airlines and must be processed and approved before entering the UAE. Both types of transit visas are not extendable, the ICP confirmed.

Transit visas for 48 hours are issued free of charge to passengers transiting through the UAE’s airports. Passenger needs to apply for the visa in advance through a UAE-based airline. This visa is not extendable, nor renewable. The validity of the visa is 48 hours from entry into the UAE, as passenger must leave the UAE within 48 hours from arrival.

To get a transit visa, applicant must have a passport or travel document with a minimum validity of three months, a photo of self against a white background and an onward ticket booking to a 3rd destination, other than the one he/she is coming from.

To apply for the 48 transit visa, applicant needs to visit the official website of the ICP (https://smartservices.icp.gov.ae) or the smart application (ICAUAE), and choose the (48) hour transit visa service, fill in data for sponsor and sponsored, pay fees (if any), and attach documents required and a personal photo. An entry permit will be sent by e-mail following approval.

It also explained that transit visas for 96 hours are issued against a fee of Dhs50 to passengers transiting through the UAE’s airports. Passenger needs to apply for the visa in advance through a UAE-based airline. This visa is not extendable, nor renewable. The validity of the visa is 96 hours from entry into the UAE, as visitor must leave the UAE within 96 hours from arrival. To get a transit visa for 96 hours, applicant must have a passport or travel document with a minimum validity of six months, present a photo of self against a white background and an onward ticket booking to a 3rd destination, other than the one you are coming from.

ICP also noted that no fees or additional amounts can be imposed by any federal, local or private entity, and that a departure fee of Dhs30 is levied on each passenger passing through the UAE’s airports.