UAE 5-year multiple-entry tourist visa: what you need to know
The UAE’s 5-year multiple-entry tourist visa is self-sponsored: you need no local host or sponsor, and it is open to all nationalities who meet the requirements. GDRFA Dubai has set out the rules. You can stay up to 90 days per visit and extend once for another 90 days, as long as your total time in the UAE stays within 180 days a year. The part most people miss is the money test: bank statements in your own name for the previous six months, showing at least $4,000.
The rules at a glance
| Item | Rule |
|---|---|
| Validity | 5 years, with multiple entries and exits |
| Who can apply | All nationalities who meet the requirements |
| Sponsor | None needed (self-sponsored) |
| Stay per visit | Up to 90 days, extendable once by 90 days |
| Annual cap | 180 days in a year in total |
| Bank balance | At least $4,000 (about Dh14,690) or equivalent, maintained over the previous six months |
| Passport | Valid for at least six months |
| Total cost | About Dh3,713, including a refundable Dh3,000 guarantee |
The fee figure is GDRFA’s total and can vary with individual circumstances. If the Dh3,000 guarantee is returned, the cost that stays with you is about Dh713. For the fee breakdown and document list, see our 5-year tourist visa fees and bank balance guide.
Planning a Year of Trips (Illustrative)
These trips are made up. A traveller spends 90 days in the UAE in the spring, then returns for 60 days in the autumn. That is 150 days, so 30 days remain inside the 180-day annual cap. A third trip of 45 days would take the year to 195 days and break the cap, so the traveller plans no more than 30. GDRFA says holders can check entry and exit records in a travel movement report to avoid overstay penalties.
Next steps
- Check you meet the six-month, $4,000 bank balance rule.
- Make sure your passport has at least six months’ validity.
- Apply through GDRFA Dubai or an authorised service channel: official digital platforms, a Customer Happiness Centre or an Amer Service Centre.
- Prepare a recent photo, valid health insurance, a round-trip ticket and bank statements. GDRFA may ask for more.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 180 days reset each trip?
No. The 90 days is the limit per visit, and the 180 days is the total across the year. Count both.
What if I overstay?
Overstay fines apply. See our overstay fine guide.
Where to go next
- 5-year tourist visa fees and bank balance
- UAE tourist visa 2026: types, extensions and overstay rules
- Which UAE tourist visa should you choose?
- Sponsoring a relative or friend on a visit visa
- The events visit visa for conferences and exhibitions
