UAE 5 Year Tourist VISA: Your Complete Guide to Long-Term Multiple Entry Access

The UAE 5 year tourist visa has revolutionized travel to the Emirates, offering unprecedented flexibility for frequent visitors. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about obtaining this valuable travel document that opens doors to multiple entries and extended stays in one of the world's most dynamic destinations.

What is the UAE 5 Year Tourist Visa?

The UAE 5 year tourist visa is a multiple-entry tourist visa that allows holders to enter the United Arab Emirates multiple times over a five-year period. Each visit permits a stay of up to 90 days, which can be extended for an additional 90 days, giving visitors remarkable flexibility for tourism, family visits, or business activities.

This long-term visa represents a significant shift in the UAE's tourism strategy, designed to attract frequent travelers and boost the country's position as a global travel hub. Unlike traditional tourist visas that require repeated applications, the UAE 5 year tourist visa eliminates the hassle of constant visa renewals for regular visitors.

Key Benefits of the UAE 5 Year Tourist Visa

Multiple Entry Convenience

The most significant advantage of the UAE 5 year tourist visa is the ability to enter and exit the UAE as many times as needed within the five-year validity period. This feature makes it ideal for:

• Business professionals with regular meetings in the UAE

• Families visiting relatives frequently

• Property investors monitoring their investments

• Tourists who love returning to explore different emirates

Extended Stay Options

Each entry allows for a 90-day stay, with the possibility of extending for another 90 days. This means visitors can potentially stay up to 180 days per visit, providing ample time for extended vacations or business activities.

Cost-Effective for Frequent Travelers

For those who visit the UAE regularly, the UAE 5 year tourist visa offers significant cost savings compared to applying for multiple shorter-term visas. The one-time application fee spreads over five years, making it economically attractive.

Flexible Travel Planning

The visa's long validity period allows for spontaneous travel decisions without worrying about visa application timelines. Travelers can book flights and accommodation with confidence, knowing their visa documentation is secured.

Eligibility Criteria for UAE 5 Year Tourist Visa

Financial Requirements

The primary eligibility criterion for the UAE 5 year tourist visa is demonstrating financial stability through a minimum bank balance of $4,000 USD (or equivalent in foreign currencies) maintained over the last six months. This requirement ensures applicants can support themselves during their stay without becoming a burden on UAE resources.

Travel History Requirements

While not explicitly mandatory for all applicants, having a good travel history significantly strengthens your application. Previous travel to countries like the USA, UK, Schengen countries, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, or Japan demonstrates your credibility as a genuine tourist.

Universal Availability

Unlike some visa categories, the UAE 5 year tourist visa can be issued to all nationalities, making it accessible to a global audience. This inclusivity aligns with the UAE's vision of becoming a worldwide tourism destination.

Insurance Coverage

Applicants must possess valid health insurance applicable in the UAE. This requirement ensures medical coverage during visits and protects both visitors and the UAE healthcare system.

Required Documents for UAE 5 Year Tourist Visa

Essential Documentation

To apply for the UAE 5 year tourist visa, you'll need the following documents:

1. Passport: Valid for at least six months from the date of application with colored copies of the first and last pages

2. Photographs: Recent passport-sized photographs with white background

3. Bank Statements: Last six months' bank statements showing a minimum balance of $4,000 USD

4. Bank Certificate: A letter from your bank certifying the account balance in USD

5. Health Insurance: Valid travel health insurance with minimum one-year coverage applicable in the UAE

6. Flight Tickets: Copy of round-trip flight tickets

7. Accommodation Proof: Hotel booking confirmation or proof of stay arrangements

8. UAE Reference: Contact details of a person in the UAE (name, contact details, and address)

Additional Supporting Documents

Depending on your specific circumstances, you may need additional documents such as:

• Employment certificate or business registration

• Property ownership documents if visiting for investment purposes

• Family relationship proof if visiting relatives

• Previous UAE visit stamps (if applicable)

Application Process for UAE 5 Year Tourist Visa

Step 1: Document Preparation

Begin by gathering all required documents as listed above. Ensure your bank statements clearly show the required minimum balance maintained consistently over six months. Your passport must have at least six months validity from your intended travel date.

Step 2: Online Application

The UAE 5 year tourist visa application process has been streamlined for online submission. You can apply through:

• Official UAE government portals (ICP and GDRFA websites)

• Authorized travel agencies and visa service providers

• Emirates Airlines visa services (for Emirates passengers)

• Mobile applications like ICP App and Dubai Now

Step 3: Fee Payment

The visa fee for the UAE 5 year tourist visa is AED 500 (approximately $136 USD) plus application processing fees of AED 100. Payment can be made online through credit cards or other accepted payment methods.

Step 4: Processing and Approval

The typical processing time for the UAE 5 year tourist visa is 7 working days, though this may vary depending on application volume and verification requirements. Once approved, you'll receive your visa electronically.

Step 5: First Entry Requirements

After receiving your UAE 5 year tourist visa, you must make your first entry within 58 days of issuance. The five-year validity period begins from your first entry into the UAE, not from the visa issuance date.

Financial Requirements and Proof of Funds

Minimum Balance Specifications

The UAE 5 year tourist visa requires a minimum bank balance of $4,000 USD or its equivalent in other foreign currencies. This amount must be consistently maintained in your account for the six months preceding your application.

Acceptable Proof of Financial Means

UAE authorities accept various forms of financial documentation:

• Official bank statements stamped and signed by your bank

• Bank certificates confirming account balance

• Credit card statements showing available credit limits

• Investment portfolios and fixed deposit certificates

Currency Considerations

While the minimum requirement is stated in USD, applicants can show equivalent amounts in their local currency. It's advisable to include a currency conversion calculation to demonstrate compliance with the $4,000 threshold.

Visa Fees and Costs

Official Government Fees

The UAE 5 year tourist visa carries the following official fees:

• Visa issuance fee: AED 500 ($136 USD)

• Application processing fee: AED 100 ($27 USD)

• Total government fees: AED 600 ($163 USD)

Additional Service Charges

When applying through authorized agents or travel companies, expect additional service charges that typically range from $50-$150 depending on the service provider. These fees cover document processing, application submission, and customer support services.

Cost Comparison with Regular Visas

Compared to applying for multiple short-term tourist visas over five years, the UAE 5 year tourist visa offers significant savings. A single 30-day tourist visa costs approximately $50-$70, making the long-term visa cost-effective for anyone planning three or more visits.

Extension and Renewal Options

In-Country Extensions

Once in the UAE on your UAE 5 year tourist visa, you can extend your 90-day stay for an additional 90 days by paying an extension fee of AED 850 ($231 USD). This extension can be processed at Emirates Commercial Visa Services located at Dubai International Airport Terminal 3.

Extension Limitations

Each visit allows for only one extension, meaning the maximum stay per visit is 180 days (90 days initial + 90 days extension). After this period, you must exit the UAE and can re-enter immediately if desired.

Visa Renewal After Five Years

The UAE 5 year tourist visa can be renewed upon expiry, subject to meeting the same eligibility criteria and documentation requirements. The renewal process follows the same application procedure as the initial visa.

Special Considerations and Important Notes

Grace Period Removal

As of 2025, the UAE has removed the previously available 10-day grace period for visa holders. This means you must exit the country before your authorized stay expires to avoid overstaying penalties and potential deportation.

Travel History Advantages

While not mandatory, having previous travel history to developed countries significantly strengthens your UAE 5 year tourist visa application. This demonstrates your status as a genuine tourist and reduces the risk of visa rejection.

Medical Insurance Requirements

Valid health insurance coverage is mandatory for the UAE 5 year tourist visa. The insurance must be applicable in the UAE and preferably have a minimum validity of one year.

Multiple Entry Benefits

The UAE 5 year tourist visa allows unlimited entries during its validity period. There are no restrictions on the number of times you can enter and exit the UAE, providing maximum flexibility for your travel plans.

Who Should Apply for the UAE 5 Year Tourist Visa?

The UAE 5 year tourist visa is particularly beneficial for:

Frequent Business Travelers

Professionals who regularly visit the UAE for meetings, conferences, or business development will find this visa invaluable for eliminating repetitive application processes.

Family Connections

Individuals with family members residing in the UAE can benefit from the flexibility to visit multiple times without visa application hassles.

Property Investors

Real estate investors who need to monitor their UAE property investments or explore new opportunities will appreciate the long-term access this visa provides.

Tourism Enthusiasts

Travel enthusiasts who love exploring different emirates and experiences across the UAE can take advantage of the extended validity and multiple entry features.

Conclusion

The UAE 5 year tourist visa represents a game-changing opportunity for frequent visitors to the Emirates. With its multiple-entry flexibility, extended stay options, and five-year validity, this visa eliminates the repetitive hassle of constant applications while providing significant cost savings for regular travelers.

By meeting the financial requirements, maintaining proper documentation, and following the straightforward application process, travelers can secure long-term access to one of the world's most dynamic destinations. Whether for business, family visits, or pure tourism, the UAE 5 year tourist visa opens doors to seamless travel experiences in the United Arab Emirates.

For those planning multiple visits to the UAE over the coming years, this visa offers unmatched convenience and value, making it an essential travel document for serious UAE enthusiasts and frequent visitors.