Planning a trip to Dubai? Once you’ve submitted your visa application, one of the most important steps is checking your Dubai visa application status. Knowing the status helps you stay informed, plan your travel efficiently, and avoid any last-minute surprises. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to check your Dubai visa status online, the types of visas you can apply for, and tips for a smooth visa process.
Why Check Dubai Visa Application Status?
Tracking your Dubai visa application status is essential for several reasons:
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Ensures your visa is being processed on time.
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Helps avoid travel delays.
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Offers peace of mind during the waiting period.
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Allows for immediate action in case of issues or missing documents.
Who Needs to Check Dubai Visa Status?
Anyone who has applied for a Dubai visa, whether for tourism, business, transit, or visiting family, can benefit from checking the visa status. This includes:
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Tourists
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Business travelers
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Job seekers
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UAE residents sponsoring family
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Students
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Transit passengers
Whether you applied through a UAE-based sponsor, a travel agency, an airline, or the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP), you can track your application easily.
Methods to Check Dubai Visa Application Status
Depending on how you applied, there are several platforms where you can check the Dubai visa status:
1. GDRFA – General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (Dubai)
If you applied through the Dubai immigration system or a local sponsor in Dubai, use the GDRFA Dubai portal.
Steps to Check GDRFA Dubai Visa Status:
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Visit the GDRFA Website
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Click on “Visa Status” or “Application Status”
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Enter required details like:
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Application number
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Passport number
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Nationality
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Submit the form
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Your current visa status will be displayed
The GDRFA also has a mobile app available on Android and iOS for easier access.
2. ICP – Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security
For visas issued outside of Dubai (like Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, etc.), use the ICP platform.
Steps to Check Visa Status on ICP:
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Visit the official Online Dubai Visa
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Navigate to “Application Tracking” or “Track Visa Status”
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Enter details like:
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Application number
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Passport number
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Date of birth or nationality
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Submit the information
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Get real-time status of your visa application
The ICP also provides updates for Emirates ID applications, which is useful for UAE residents.
3. Check via Airlines (Emirates or Etihad)
If you applied for your Dubai visa through an airline, you can track it on the airline’s website.
Emirates Visa Status:
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Visit Dubai Visa
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Login to your account or use the “Manage Your Booking” feature
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Enter booking reference and last name
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View visa application details and status
Etihad Visa Status:
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Visit Dubai Visa Online
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Go to “Manage Booking” or “Visa Services”
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Enter your booking and personal details
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Get your visa status update
4. Third-Party Travel Agencies
If you applied via a travel agency, they usually offer a portal or provide a tracking link.
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Contact the agency directly for your tracking number
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Use their official tracking tool if available
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Alternatively, ask the agent to update you regularly
Information Required to Check Dubai Visa Status
To check your visa status, ensure you have the following details:
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Application number or reference number
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Passport number
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Date of birth
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Nationality
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Sometimes: email address or mobile number linked with your application
Make sure all information is entered correctly to avoid errors or delays.
Common Visa Statuses and What They Mean
When checking your Dubai visa application status, you might come across these common terms:
Tips to Ensure Smooth Visa Tracking
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Save Your Application Number: Always store your reference number securely.
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Track Regularly: Don’t wait until the last moment; check status every few days.
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Use Official Websites: Avoid third-party or unreliable platforms for security reasons.
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Verify Details: Ensure your entered passport and application details are accurate.
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Follow Up if Delayed: If there’s no update within 4–5 working days, contact the support center.
What to Do if Your Dubai Visa is Delayed?
If your Dubai visa application is taking longer than expected:
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Contact the visa service provider or immigration office
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Call ICP hotline: 600-522-222 (for all UAE emirates except Dubai)
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Call GDRFA Dubai: 800-5111 (within UAE) or +971-4-313-9999 (international)
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Email Support: Use official email channels provided on ICP or GDRFA portals
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Visit Customer Happiness Centers: Available in most UAE emirates
Can You Check Dubai Visa Status Without a Reference Number?
It depends on the platform. Most government portals require an application/reference number. However, if you’ve lost it, you can:
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Contact your visa agent or sponsor
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Retrieve it via registered email or SMS (some platforms provide this option)
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Visit a customer center with your passport for assistance
How Long Does It Take to Get a Dubai Visa?
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Tourist Visa (30/60 days): 3–5 working days
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Transit Visa (48/96 hours): 1–3 working days
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Employment Visa: 5–10 working days
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Family Sponsorship: Up to 10 working days
Fast-track or express visa services are available for urgent travel at an additional cost.
Final Thoughts
Checking your Dubai visa application status is simple and essential for a stress-free trip to the UAE. Whether you’re applying for a short holiday, a business trip, or visiting family, staying updated on your visa progress helps you make timely decisions. Use official channels like GDRFA, ICP, or the airline portal through which you applied. Always double-check your information, follow up if needed, and get ready for your unforgettable journey to Dubai.
FAQs – Check Dubai Visa Application Status
Can I track my Dubai visa using my passport number?
Yes, you can check visa status using your passport number and application number on official portals like ICP and GDRFA.
How can I check if my Dubai visa is approved?
Visit the ICP or GDRFA portal, enter your application details, and the status will show “Approved” once processed.
What should I do if my visa is rejected?
Contact your visa agent or sponsor for clarification. You may be able to reapply with corrected or additional documents.
How long is the Dubai tourist visa valid after approval?
A standard Dubai tourist visa is valid for entry within 60 days of issue. Once you enter the UAE, your stay duration begins (30 or 60 days).
