Quick answer: Standard 30-day and 60-day Dubai tourist visas can usually be extended by 30 days without leaving the country. You must apply before your current visa expires, as extensions can’t be processed retroactively. Extensions carry a separate fee and typically take a few working days. Overstaying without an approved extension leads to daily fines (currently AED 50 per day) from the day after your visa lapses.
Extensions are simple in theory, but timing trips up more travellers than any other step. Here’s how it works.
Extension at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Extension length | Usually 30 days per extension |
| When to apply | Before the current visa expires |
| Processing time | A few working days |
| Cost | Separate fee from the original visa |
| Where to apply | ICP portal/app, GDRFA Dubai, or your visa issuer/agent |
Get help with your extension →
How to Apply for an Extension
- Track your visa expiry date closely.
- Apply several days before expiry to allow processing time.
- Submit the request through the ICP portal, GDRFA Dubai, your original issuer, or a licensed agent.
- Pay the extension fee.
- Receive confirmation before your current visa ends.
Start your extension request →
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline
If your visa expires before an extension is approved, you are in overstay. Fines apply for each day of overstay and must be settled before you can leave the UAE. Applying early is the only way to avoid this risk.
Extensions for Other Visa Types
The 5-year multiple-entry visa works differently: each stay of up to 90 days can usually be extended once. Learn more about the 5-year visa → Transit visas cannot be extended.
Extend Your Dubai Stay Without the Stress
Timing matters more than anything else with a visa extension. Check your visa requirements or get a free quote. Our consultants respond within 2 hours.
