Dubai Visa for Filipinos
The UAE is one of the top travel destinations for Filipinos, whether for tourism, visiting family, and work. Filipino citizens required a pre-approved electronic visa to enter the UAE, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm al Quwain. A tourist visa can be processed through licensed travel agents, airlines, and hotels based in the country. Local travel agents also facilitate visa services in collaboration with tour operators in the UAE. Here's a complete guide on how to get a visa as a Filipino citizen to visit the UAE:
Types of Dubai (UAE) Visas for Filipinos
- Tourist Visa - Ideal for those visiting UAE for leisure or to see family and friends.
- Visit Visa - Issued if you have a sponsor (family or friend) in the UAE.
- Transit Visa - If you have a layover in Dubai for more than 8 hours but less than 96 hours.
- Employment Visa - For Filipinos with a job offer from a UAE-based company.
- Student Visa - For Filipinos enrolling in a UAE-based educational institution.
UAE Visa on Arrival for Filipinos (Updated 2026)
Starting 25 June 2026, eligible Filipino passport holders can obtain a Dubai (UAE) Visa on Arrival (VOA) instead of applying for a tourist visa in advance. A return onward or exit ticket, confirmed hotel booking and sufficient funds (show-money) for stay may be requested by immigration. This is a conditional Visa on Arrival. It is not available to all Filipino passport holders. If you do not hold a qualifying visa, residence permit, or Green Card from one of the approved countries, listed below, you must obtain a Dubai (UAE) tourist visa before traveling. The eligibility for VOA is having valid visa; residents permit or Green Card (where applicable) from below countries-
- United States
- United Kingdom
- European Union member states
- Singapore
- Japan
- South Korea
- Canada
- Australia
- New Zealand
Please check the latest update on VOA from UAE embassy/consulate before planning travel.
How to Apply for a Dubai (UAE) Visa from Philippines?
- Through a Sponsor – Applicable for Family or Friends through AMER Center or GDRFA.
- Through an Airline – Emirates, Etihad, Flydubai, Air Arabia provides UAE visa services.
- Through a Travel Agency – Choose an accredited travel agency or tour operator for UAE.
- UAE-Based Hotels - Book a hotel in the United Arab Emirates that provides visa assistance.
- Through UAE Immigration – Visit the UAE official ICP visa website or AMER service.
Dubai (UAE) Visa Requirements
- Philippines passport with six-month validity.
- External (Cover) pages of the passport.
- Passport-sized photo (white background).
- Confirmed round-trip flight tickets.
- Hotel booking confirmation or invitation letter.
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statement and pay slips).
- Affidavit of support and guarantee for jobseekers.
Dubai (UAE) Visa Fees in PHP
- 48-hour Transit Visa: ₱2,100 - ₱3,600
- 96-hour Transit Visa: ₱3,700 - ₱5,200
- 30-day Tourist Visa: ₱5,500 - ₱7,500
- 60-day Tourist Visa: ₱8,500 - ₱10,500
Processing Time:
- Standard visa: 3-5 working days
- Express visa: 24-48 hours (additional charges apply)
Important Tips
- Always check the latest visa regulations before applying.
- Avoid overstaying your visa to prevent fines or travel bans.
- Consider travel insurance for added security.
Final Thoughts
Securing a UAE visa for Filipinos is a straightforward process when following the right steps. Whether you're visiting for travel, work, or study, preparing the necessary documents and choosing the best application method will ensure a smooth journey. Are you planning to visit the UAE soon? Let us know in the comments to book a suitable package for you or fill out the UAE visa inquiry form for a free consultation!