UAE eVisa for Pakistani Citizens: Requirements, Fees, and How to Apply in 2026
The United Arab Emirates remains one of the top travel destinations for Pakistani citizens — and for good reason. From the towering Burj Khalifa and the luxury shopping of Dubai to the cultural richness of Abu Dhabi and the natural beauty of Fujairah, the UAE offers something for every traveler. With a large Pakistani diaspora already residing in the UAE and frequent direct flights from Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, visiting the Emirates is more accessible than ever.
However, Pakistani citizens cannot enter the UAE visa-free. You must obtain a visa before travel. The most common route is through a pre-arranged eVisa sponsored by a UAE-based airline, hotel, travel agency, or individual sponsor. This comprehensive guide from Viza explains everything you need to know about the UAE eVisa for Pakistani citizens in 2026.
- Visa required: Yes — no visa-free or visa-on-arrival for Pakistani citizens
- Visa type: Tourist/visit eVisa (pre-arranged through UAE sponsor)
- Stay options: 30-day or 60-day single/multiple entry
- Fee: Starting from AED 330 (~$90 USD) for a standard tourist visa
- Processing time: 3 to 4 business days
- Sponsor required: Yes — airline, hotel, travel agency, or individual in the UAE
UAE Visa Overview for Pakistani Passport Holders
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Visa requirement | eVisa / pre-arranged visit visa required |
| 30-day tourist visa fee | AED 330 (~$90 USD) |
| 60-day tourist visa fee | AED 550+ (~$150 USD) |
| Processing time | 3–4 business days |
| Passport validity | At least 6 months from arrival |
| Sponsor needed | Yes (airline, hotel, travel agent, or individual) |
| Transit visa | Available (48h free / 96h AED 50 via airlines) |
| Overstay penalty | AED 50 per day + administrative fees |
Types of UAE Visas Available for Pakistani Citizens
There are several visa options available to Pakistani travelers visiting the UAE:
30-Day Tourist Visa
The most common option for short holidays. This single-entry visa allows a stay of up to 30 days and can be sponsored by a UAE-based hotel, airline, or travel agency.
60-Day Tourist Visa
For longer stays, the 60-day tourist visa provides more flexibility. Available as single or multiple entry, depending on the sponsor and application.
Transit Visa (48h / 96h)
If you are transiting through the UAE en route to another destination, you may be eligible for a transit visa. The 48-hour transit visa is free when arranged through a UAE-based airline, while the 96-hour transit visa costs AED 50. These must be arranged in advance through your airline — they are not issued at the border without prior sponsorship.
Visit Visa (Sponsor-Based)
If you have family or friends residing in the UAE, they can sponsor your visit visa through ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security) or GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs).
Required Documents for UAE eVisa
To apply for a UAE eVisa as a Pakistani citizen, you will need the following documents:
- Valid Pakistani passport — Must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in the UAE, with at least two blank pages.
- Passport-sized photograph — Recent color photo with white background (digital format for online applications).
- Confirmed return or onward flight ticket — Proof of your departure from the UAE.
- Hotel booking confirmation — Or a letter of invitation from your UAE-based sponsor.
- Completed visa application form — Provided by the sponsoring entity (airline, hotel, or travel agency).
- Cover letter — Detailing the purpose of your visit (often provided by sponsor).
- Proof of financial means — Bank statements showing sufficient funds for your stay.
- Travel insurance — Recommended for all travelers.
Pro tip: Use Viza to get a personalized document checklist based on your exact situation. Viza helps you prepare and organize all required documents before submission.
Step-by-Step: How to Get a UAE eVisa from Pakistan
Unlike countries where you apply directly on a government portal, the UAE visa system works through sponsors. Here is how to apply:
- Choose your sponsor type — Decide whether you will apply through an airline (e.g., Emirates, Etihad, flydubai), a hotel, a registered travel agency, or a UAE-based individual sponsor.
- Check your requirements — Visit Viza's Pakistan to UAE page to confirm the exact documents and visa type you need.
- Gather your documents — Prepare all required documents as listed above.
- Submit your application — Your sponsor submits the application on your behalf through ICP or GDRFA e-services. If using an airline, this is done through their visa service portal.
- Pay the visa fee — Fees vary by visa type and sponsor. Standard 30-day tourist visa starts at AED 330.
- Wait for processing — Typically 3 to 4 business days.
- Receive your eVisa — The approved visa is sent electronically. Print a copy for your records.
- Travel to the UAE — Present your eVisa and passport at immigration upon arrival.
UAE Visa Fees for Pakistani Citizens in 2026
| Visa Type | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 30-day tourist visa | AED 330 (~$90 USD) | Standard single-entry |
| 60-day tourist visa | AED 550+ (~$150 USD) | Extended stay option |
| 48-hour transit visa | Free | Through UAE airlines only |
| 96-hour transit visa | AED 50 (~$14 USD) | Through UAE airlines only |
| Visit visa (family sponsor) | AED 350–1,000+ | Depends on duration |
Note that travel agencies and airlines may charge additional service fees on top of the government visa fee. Always confirm the total cost before submitting your application.
Processing Times
| Application Type | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Standard tourist visa | 3–4 business days |
| Express processing | 24–48 hours (higher fee) |
| Transit visa (airline) | 1–2 business days |
| Family-sponsored visit visa | 3–5 business days |
| Viza Service Fee | $5 |
Important Rules and Conditions
- Overstay penalties: AED 50 per day plus administrative fees. Overstaying can lead to fines, detention, and entry bans.
- No work permitted: Tourist and visit visas do not allow employment. Working illegally in the UAE carries severe penalties including imprisonment and deportation.
- Visa extension: Some visas can be extended once through ICP/GDRFA for an additional fee. Apply before your current visa expires.
- Dress code: While the UAE is relatively liberal, modest dress is expected in public areas, malls, and especially mosques and government buildings.
- Alcohol: Legal in licensed venues in most emirates but not in Sharjah. Public intoxication is an offense.
Tips for Pakistani Travelers to the UAE
- Apply at least 2 weeks early: While processing is typically fast, leave buffer time for any issues.
- Use reputable agents: Many scam agencies operate online. Use only UAE-licensed travel agencies or well-known airlines.
- Carry cash: While cards are widely accepted, having AED cash on hand is useful for taxis and small shops.
- SIM cards: Purchase a tourist SIM at the airport from Etisalat or du. Plans start from AED 55.
- Metro in Dubai: The Dubai Metro is clean, affordable, and covers major attractions. Gold class available for a premium.
- Friday brunch culture: The UAE's famous Friday brunch is a social institution — book in advance at popular venues.
- Weather: Summers (June–September) are extremely hot (45C+). The best time to visit is October to April.
- Currency: UAE Dirham (AED). 1 USD is approximately 3.67 AED.
Official source: UAE ICP Smart Services
Frequently Asked Questions — UAE eVisa for Pakistani Citizens
Do Pakistani citizens need a visa for the UAE?
Yes. Pakistani citizens must obtain a visa before traveling to the UAE. There is no visa-free or visa-on-arrival option available.
Can I apply for a UAE visa directly?
No. UAE visas for Pakistani citizens must be arranged through a UAE-based sponsor — an airline, hotel, licensed travel agency, or individual resident.
How much does a UAE tourist visa cost for Pakistani citizens?
A standard 30-day tourist visa costs approximately AED 330 (~$90 USD). Longer durations and multiple entries cost more.
How long does it take to get a UAE visa?
Standard processing takes 3 to 4 business days. Express options may be available through some sponsors for an additional fee.
Can I transit through Dubai without a visa?
Pakistani citizens can obtain a transit visa (48h free or 96h for AED 50) when arranged through a UAE-based airline like Emirates or Etihad. This must be arranged before travel.
What happens if I overstay my UAE visa?
Overstaying incurs a fine of AED 50 per day plus administrative fees. Prolonged overstays can result in detention and future entry bans.
Can I extend my UAE tourist visa?
Some visa types can be extended once through ICP or GDRFA e-services. Apply before your visa expires to avoid penalties.
Ready to Apply for Your UAE Visa?
The UAE is one of the most exciting and dynamic destinations for Pakistani travelers, offering world-class attractions, business opportunities, and a thriving Pakistani community. While the visa process requires a sponsor, the application itself is straightforward when you have the right guidance.
Use Viza to check your eligibility, understand the requirements, and prepare your documents. Viza simplifies the entire process so you can focus on planning your trip to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or beyond.
