Login
Travel Stories

UAE Visas - Types, Requirements & Apply

By Qunoosh Published: March 01, 2024 Updated on: September 25, 2026 5 min read
Back to Blog Articles

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) issues different visas for different purposes, including tourist visas, business visas, and work visas.

Tourist visas are the most common type of visa for visitors to the UAE. They are valid for 30, 90, or 180 days, and can be extended for an additional 30 days. Tourist visas can be applied for online or at a UAE embassy or consulate.

Business visas are issued to individuals who are traveling to the UAE for business purposes. They are valid for 30, 90, or 180 days, and can be extended for an additional 30 days. Business visas can be applied for online or at a UAE embassy or consulate.

Work visas are issued to individuals who are traveling to the UAE to work. They are valid for the duration of the employment contract and can be renewed. Work visas can only be applied for through a UAE employer.

Other types of visas include transit visas, student visas, and medical visas.

The UAE is currently issuing visas to all countries, including Pakistan. However, there are some COVID-19 restrictions in place, such as a requirement to show proof of vaccination.

Visa on arrival UAE

30‑day visit eligibility

If you are from a country that is eligible for visa on arrival in the UAE, you can get a 30-day visa for free when you arrive at Dubai International Airport. You just need to show your passport and pay a small visa fee.

AndorraAustraliaBrunei
CanadaChinaHong Kong, China
JapanKazakhstanMacau, China
MalaysiaMauritiusMonaco
New ZealandRepublic of IrelandSan Marino
SingaporeUkraineUnited Kingdom and Northern Ireland
United States of AmericaVatican City

90‑day visit eligibility

If you hold a passport from below countries or territories, your passport will be stamped with a multiple entry 90‑day visit visa that's valid for 6 months from the date of issue, and for a stay of 90 days in total. Citizens of the below European countries are also entitled to apply for a pre‑arranged visit visa if their 90‑day visa on arrival has been fully utilized.

ArgentinaAustriaBahamas Islands
BarbadosBelgiumBrazil
BulgariaChileColombia
Costa RicaCroatiaCyprus
Czech RepublicDenmarkEl Salvador
EstoniaFinlandFrance
GeorgiaGermanyGreece
HondurasHungaryIceland
ItalyKiribatiLatvia
LiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourg
MaldivesMaltaMontenegro
NauruNetherlandsNorway
ParaguayPeruPoland
PortugalRomaniaRussian Federation
Saint Vincent and the GrenadinesSan MarinoSerbia
SeychellesSlovakiaSlovenia
Solomon IslandsSouth KoreaSpain
SwedenSwitzerlandUruguay

180‑day visit eligibility

If you are a Mexican passport holder you’re eligible for a multiple entry 180‑day visit visa that's valid for 6 months from the date of issue and for a stay of 180 days in total.

Prearranged UAE visas

Visa typeDurationApproximate rate inclusive of VATExtensions
48‑hour48 hoursUSD 10Non‑extendable
96‑hour4 days from arrival dateUSD 49Non‑extendable
Tourist – short term (single entry)30 days from arrival dateUSD 90Extendable USD 230
Tourist – short term (multiple entry)30 days from first entryUSD 136Extendable USD 230
Tourist – long term (single entry)60 days from arrival dateUSD 177Extendable USD 230
Tourist – long term (multiple entry)60 days from first entryUSD 231Extendable USD 230

Required documents for UAE Visas

  1. Applicant color photograph
  2. Color copy of applicant's passport. The passport must be valid for at least three months.
  3. The original application form (available at all Emirates ticketing offices) can be accessed in Arabic or English, depending on the applicant’s nationality. Download the English or Arabic application form.
  4. Copy of the Emirates ticket

Additional documents are required for visitors from some countries

Additional documents may be required, depending on your country of residence.

AfghanistanNational ID Card (Tazkira ID)
IraqNational ID Card
PakistanNational ID Card
IranNational ID Card

Rules and conditions

  • Visa fees must be paid upon application.
  • Additional visa processing fees apply.
  • The passenger must travel to and from Dubai on Emirates or codeshare flights only.
  • Visa fees are nonrefundable.
  • The ticket is non‑refundable if the visa has been issued and utilized.
  • Visa processing time is approximately 3 to 4 working days.
  • Entry into the UAE is subject to immigration approval.
  • All visas are valid to enter Dubai for 60 days from the date of issue, except the 96‑hour and 48‑hour visas, which are valid for 30 days from the date of issue.

Sponsoring someone to visit the UAE

Required applicant documents:

  • A color passport photograph
  • A color copy of your passport (must be valid for six months)
  • A copy of your Emirates flight ticket, or your flight ticket from our codeshare partner
  • The visa application form

Required sponsor documents:

Sponsor's employerSponsor documents
Emirates Group StaffStaff ID copy
Government/Semi‑GovernmentSalary certificate (must be in Arabic)Sponsor passport and residency copy
Free‑zone companySalary certificate from the free‑zone authority (must be in Arabic)Sponsor passport and residency copy
Private companyLabor contract copySponsor passport and residency copy
InvestorSponsor passport and residency copy
PartnerSponsor passport and residency copy

Minimum salary required

Relative (visitor/applicant)Minimum salary of sponsor
Wife/Children/Parents/Parents In‑LawAED 4,000
Brothers/Sisters/DependentsAED 5,500
Brothers/Sisters In‑LawAED 7,000
Friends and Other RelativesAED 10,000

Contact information For Submission

Visa and sponsorship applications can be submitted to:

Abu Dhabi

Emirates Ticketing Office: Al Sawari Tower C, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, UAE.
Visa Services: Monday to Friday (8.30 am to 6 pm) and Saturday (8.30 am to 5.30 pm)
Closed on Sundays and public holidays.

Ajman

Emirates Ticketing Office
Escape Tower, Sheikh Rashid Bin Humaid Street
Visa Services: Monday to Saturday (9 am to 6 pm)
Closed on Sundays and public holidays

Al Ain

Emirates Ticketing Office
Commercial Complex, Sheikh Khalifa Street
Visa Services: Monday to Friday (8.30 am to 6 pm) and Saturday (8.30 am to 5.30 pm)
Closed on Sundays and public holidays

Dubai

Dubai International:
Terminal 3 Arrivals
Phone: 04 504 7300
E‑mail: ekvisaquery@emirates.com
Visa Services: Monday to Friday (7 am to 2 pm) and Saturday (9 am to 4 pm)
Closed on Sundays and public holidays

Emirates Ticketing Office:
Emirates Group Technology Centre, Ground Floor
Entrance B, Al Ittihad Road, near Clock Tower, Deira
Visa Services: Monday to Saturday (10 am to 4 pm)
Closed on Sundays and public holidays

Emirates Ticketing Office:
Town Centre, Jumeirah
Visa Services: Daily from (10 am to 4 pm)

VFS Global Services GCC
VASCO Worldwide
2nd floor, WAFI Mall,
Level 2, Falcon Phase 2,
Umm Hurair 2, Dubai, UAE

Sharjah

Emirates Ticketing Office:
Crystal Plaza, Buhaira Corniche
Visa Services: Monday to Saturday (9 am to 7 pm)
Closed on Sundays and public holidays

Umm Al Quwain

Emirates Ticketing Office:
King Faisal Road, Jameiya area, near FEWA
Visa Services: Monday to Saturday (9 am to 8 pm)
Closed on Sundays and public holidays

Thank you for reading All UAE Tours Blog!

Related Articles

Commercial Bank of Dubai Branches and ATMs in Dubai
Mar 01, 2024

Commercial Bank of Dubai Branches and ATMs in Dubai

Finding a Commercial Bank of Dubai (CBD) branch or ATM in Dubai is straightforward, with locations across major residential, commercial and shopping areas. CBD provides both full-service branches and ATMs offering services such as cash withdrawal, cash deposits, cheque deposits and account-related transfers.CBD's official branch and ATM locator currently lists 108 records and allows customers to filter locations by branches, ATMs and available services.Whether you need to visit a branch for banking services or simply want to withdraw cash, deposit money or find an ATM near your destination, this guide explains how to find the right CBD location in Dubai.Commercial Bank of Dubai Branches in DubaiCBD has branches in several parts of Dubai, including Deira, Jumeirah, Al Quoz, Sheikh Zayed Road, Nad Al Sheba and other areas.Some useful CBD branch locations include:Commercial Bank of Dubai Main Branch – DeiraCommercial Bank Of Dubai, Main Branch is located on Ittihad Street behind Deira City Centre in Port Saeed, Deira.The branch is a convenient option for customers in:DeiraPort SaeedDeira City CentreAl GarhoudAl MuraqqabatAl RiggaThe listed branch hours are generally 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM Monday to Thursday and Saturday, with shorter Friday hours. Always verify the current schedule before visiting.CBD Jumeirah BranchCommercial Bank of Dubai Jumeirah Branch is located in Jumeirah 1, next to McDonald's.This location can be convenient for customers around:JumeirahJumeirah 1Al WaslSatwaUmm SuqeimCBD's official locator lists Jumeirah as a branch location and also identifies ATM services available there.CBD Al Quoz BranchCommercial Bank of Dubai - Al Quoz Branch is located on Sheikh Zayed Road in Al Quoz.It can be useful for customers and businesses around:Al QuozAl BarshaBusiness BaySheikh Zayed RoadUmm SuqeimCBD Sheikh Zayed Road BranchCommercial Bank of Dubai Sh. Zayed Road Branch is located at 88 Sheikh Zayed Road in the Trade Centre/DIFC area.This location can be convenient for people working around:DIFCTrade CentreSheikh Zayed RoadDowntown DubaiBusiness BayCBD Nad Al Sheba Mall BranchCommercial Bank of Dubai Nad Al Sheba Mall Branch is located on Level 2 of Nad Al Sheba Mall, next to Spinneys.The branch provides an alternative to CBD's traditional street-front locations and is useful for customers around Nad Al Sheba and surrounding communities.CBD's official locator currently lists extended mall-style hours for this branch, with teller-service hours differing from general mall/ATM access.Commercial Bank of Dubai ATMs in DubaiCBD operates ATMs in many locations across Dubai, including shopping malls, hospitals, petrol stations, metro areas, schools and CBD branches.ATM services vary by location.The CBD locator identifies features including:Cash withdrawalCash depositCheque depositFund transfer by accountBill paymentDrive-through serviceInside-lobby ATM access24-hour ATM availability at selected locationsCBD ATM at Mall of the EmiratesCBD ATM Mall of Emirates is located inside Mall of the Emirates on Sheikh Zayed Road.CBD's official locator lists Mall of Emirates ATM locations with services including:Cash withdrawalCash depositCheque depositFund transfer by accountThe ATM operates according to the mall's access hours rather than necessarily being available 24 hours.CBD ATM at Mirdif City CentreCBD ATM Mirdif City Center is located near the South East Exit of City Centre Mirdif.It provides a convenient CBD ATM option for customers in:MirdifAl WarqaMushrifInternational CityNad Al HamarCBD ATM in KaramaCBD ATM karama Centre is located in Al Karama.This is a useful option for customers around Karama, Bur Dubai, Oud Metha and nearby central Dubai areas.CBD ATM at Al GarhoudCommercial Bank of Dubai ATM is located on Airport Road in Al Garhoud.The location is particularly convenient for customers traveling around:Dubai International AirportAl GarhoudDeiraAirport RoadDubai Festival CityCBD's official locator lists some Al Garhoud ATM services as available 24 hours.CBD ATM at Al Quoz Petrol StationCBD ATM Emarat Petrol Station, Al Qouz is located at an Emarat petrol station in Al Quoz.This type of location can be useful when you need access to cash outside normal branch hours.CBD ATM at Dubai Hills MallCBD has ATM locations at Dubai Hills Mall.The official locator lists Dubai Hills Mall – ATM 1 and Dubai Hills Mall – ATM 2, located on the first floor near the E Parking area (P4). Available services include cash withdrawal, cash deposit, cheque deposit and fund transfer by account.CBD ATM at Madina MallCBD ATM Madina Mall is located at Madina Mall on Beirut Street in Muhaisnah.It provides another CBD ATM option for customers in Muhaisnah and surrounding northern Dubai communities.CBD ATM Near Baniyas SquareCBD ATM is located around Al Maktoum Hospital Road near Baniyas Square Metro Station.This can be particularly convenient for people traveling through central Deira using public transportation.CBD ATM Services in DubaiNot every CBD ATM provides exactly the same services.The official CBD locator allows users to filter ATMs by features such as:ATM ServiceAvailabilityCash withdrawalSelected CBD ATMsCash depositSelected CBD ATMsCheque depositSelected CBD ATMsFund transferSelected CBD ATMsBill paymentSelected CBD ATMsDrive-throughSelected locations24-hour accessSelected locationsInside-lobby ATMSelected locationsCBD states that bill payment by account and fund transfer by account are available to CBD customers, while bill payment by cash can be used by both CBD and non-CBD customers.How to Find the Nearest CBD Branch or ATM in DubaiThe easiest way to find the most up-to-date CBD location is to use the bank's official branch and ATM locator.You can filter locations based on:BranchesATMs24-hour availabilityCash depositCheque depositBill paymentFund transferDrive-through facilitiesOther available servicesOfficial CBD Branch & ATM Locator:Commercial Bank of Dubai Branch & ATM LocatorFind a CBD ATM Using the Mobile AppCBD also provides location-finding functionality through its digital banking services.According to CBD, customers using the CBD Mobile App can go to More → Helpful Info → ATM and filter ATM locations by ATM type, branches and cities.CBD Online Banking also provides a Locations option that can show branch and ATM locations and directions through Google Maps.CBD Branch Opening Hours in DubaiCBD branch hours depend on the individual location.Traditional branches may generally operate during banking hours, while branches inside shopping malls can have extended schedules.For example, CBD's official locator currently shows:Traditional branches with morning-to-afternoon banking hoursSome mall branches with extended evening hoursSelected ATMs operating 24 hoursATM access that may follow shopping-mall opening hoursBecause opening hours can change during UAE public holidays or special occasions, check the official locator before traveling.Are CBD ATMs Open 24 Hours?Some are, but not every CBD ATM is open 24 hours.CBD's official locator specifically provides a 24 Hours ATM filter. Certain standalone or outdoor ATMs are available around the clock, while ATMs inside malls or other buildings may follow the property's opening hours.Can You Deposit Cash at a CBD ATM?Yes. Selected CBD ATMs support cash deposits.The official locator identifies Cash Deposit and Smart Cash Deposit as available ATM features at certain locations.Before visiting, check that the particular ATM supports cash deposits if this is the service you need.Can You Deposit Cheques at a CBD ATM?Yes, selected CBD ATMs provide cheque deposit facilities.Because cheque deposit is not available at every ATM, use the official locator's service filters to find a suitable machine.What If a CBD ATM Keeps Your Card?If a CBD ATM retains your card, CBD advises customers to contact the bank at 600 575 556 at any time for assistance.If the ATM is located at a CBD branch, you can also notify branch staff during regular business hours.What If a CBD ATM Transaction Fails?If an ATM transaction does not complete successfully, CBD advises customers to contact the bank or notify staff if the ATM is located at a CBD branch.CBD's UAE customer-care number is 600 575 556.CBD Branches and ATMs Near Dubai AirportTravelers arriving through Dubai International Airport have several CBD options in the surrounding area.CBD's official locator lists an ATM at Al Garhoud Private Hospital and another on Airport Road in Al Garhoud, with some ATM services available 24 hours.For travelers, checking the official locator immediately before departure is recommended because ATM availability and access conditions can change.CBD Branches and ATMs in DeiraDeira has several CBD options, including the CBD Main Branch behind Deira City Centre and ATM locations around central Deira.A CBD ATM is also located near Baniyas Square and Al Maktoum Hospital Road.Deira is therefore one of the more convenient areas for customers looking for CBD banking services in northern and central Dubai.CBD Branches and ATMs in JumeirahCustomers in Jumeirah can use the CBD Jumeirah Branch and associated ATM facilities.The official CBD locator lists Jumeirah as a location with cash withdrawal, cash deposit, cheque deposit and fund transfer services.CBD Branches and ATMs in Al QuozAl Quoz has both branch and ATM options.The CBD Al Quoz Branch is located on Sheikh Zayed Road, while additional ATM access is available in the wider Al Quoz area, including an ATM at an Emarat petrol station.CBD Branches and ATMs in Dubai MallsFor customers who prefer banking while shopping, CBD has locations in several Dubai shopping destinations.Examples include:Mall of the EmiratesDubai Hills MallMirdif City CentreNad Al Sheba MallDubai Outlet MallThe exact services and opening hours differ by location.CBD ATM vs CBD BranchChoosing between an ATM and branch depends on what you need.Use a CBD ATM if you need:Cash withdrawalCash depositCheque depositCertain account transfersCertain bill-payment servicesVisit a CBD Branch if you need:In-person banking assistanceServices that require staff supportAccount-related assistanceMore complex banking requestsMany routine banking tasks can also be completed digitally through CBD's mobile and online banking services. CBD has been expanding its digital services, with some routine services being redirected to the mobile app from July 2026.Tips for Finding a CBD Branch or ATM in DubaiCheck the Location Before You LeaveCBD has many locations, but services differ from one ATM or branch to another.Check ATM FeaturesIf you need cash deposit or cheque deposit, confirm that the selected ATM supports the service.Check Opening HoursMall ATMs may follow mall opening hours, while selected standalone ATMs operate 24 hours.Use the Official LocatorThe official CBD locator is the best option for current locations, services and directions.Check Holiday HoursBank branches may close or operate different hours during UAE public holidays.Frequently Asked QuestionsHow many Commercial Bank of Dubai branches and ATMs are in Dubai?CBD's official branch and ATM locator currently displays 108 records across its network, including branches and ATMs. The total can change as locations are added, removed or updated.Where is the main Commercial Bank of Dubai branch in Dubai?The CBD Main Branch is on Ittihad Street behind Deira City Centre in Port Saeed, Deira.Where can I find a CBD ATM in Dubai?CBD operates ATMs across Dubai, including locations at Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Hills Mall, Mirdif City Centre, Al Garhoud, Karama, Al Quoz, Madina Mall and other areas.Are CBD ATMs available 24 hours?Some CBD ATMs operate 24 hours, while others follow the opening hours of the mall, building or facility where they are located. Use the official 24-hour filter before visiting.Can I deposit cash at a CBD ATM?Yes. Selected CBD ATMs support cash deposits and smart cash deposits. Check the ATM's listed services before visiting.Can I deposit a cheque at a CBD ATM?Yes, selected CBD ATMs provide cheque deposit facilities.What is Commercial Bank of Dubai's customer-care number?CBD lists 600 575 556 as its UAE customer-care number.Can I find CBD ATMs using the mobile app?Yes. CBD says customers can use the CBD Mobile App by going to More → Helpful Info → ATM and filtering ATM locations by type, branch and city.What should I do if a CBD ATM keeps my card?Contact CBD on 600 575 556. If the ATM is located at a CBD branch, you can also inform branch staff during branch hours.Are CBD branch hours the same across Dubai?No. Branch hours vary by location. Traditional branches and mall branches can have different schedules, so check the official locator before visiting.Final ThoughtsCommercial Bank of Dubai has a broad network of branches and ATMs throughout Dubai, making it relatively easy to access banking services in areas such as Deira, Jumeirah, Al Quoz, Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Garhoud, Mirdif, Nad Al Sheba and major shopping malls.For the most accurate location, opening time and ATM-service information, use CBD's official branch and ATM locator rather than relying on an old directory listing.If you are visiting Dubai, you can also explore our other Dubai travel guides covering transportation, attractions, city tours, desert safaris, shopping and practical travel information.

Read Article
ICA Smart Services Visa Validity Check (step-by-step)
Mar 01, 2024

ICA Smart Services Visa Validity Check (step-by-step)

Before traveling internationally it's always important to check your visa validity & it's critical. Now you can easily check your visa validity with ICA Smart Service. ICA Smart Services Visa Validity Check Online You can check the validity of your UAE visa using the ICA Smart Services portal. Here are the steps on how to do it: Go to the ICA Smart Services website: https://smartservices.icp.gov.ae/ Click on the "Public Services" tab. Select the "Visa Status Inquiry" service. Enter your passport number and passport expiry date. Select your nationality from the drop-down list. Enter the captcha code and click on "Search". The website will display your visa details, including the visa type, validity period, and the number of entries allowed. Here are some additional things to keep in mind when checking your visa validity using the ICA Smart Services portal: You must have a valid UAE visa to be able to use the portal. You must enter your passport number and passport expiry date correctly. If you are not sure of your nationality, you can select "UAE" from the drop-down list. The captcha code is used to prevent automated queries. If you have any problems checking your visa validity using the ICA Smart Services portal, you can contact the ICA call center at 600 522 222. I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.

Read Article
Why Do Dubai Hot Air Balloon Rides Always Happen at Sunrise? From 3,000 AED
Sep 24, 2026

Why Do Dubai Hot Air Balloon Rides Always Happen at Sunrise?

Nobody loves a 4 am alarm on holiday. So why can't you take a balloon ride in the Dubai desert at a civilised hour, or at sunset like a desert safari?The sunrise is beautiful, but that isn't really why balloons fly then. It's about air temperature, wind and safety. Here's the explanation in plain English.Quick AnswerHot air balloons in Dubai fly at sunrise because the early-morning air is cool, calm and stable. Once the sun heats the desert sand, it creates rising currents of hot air (thermals) and gusty winds that make balloon flight unpredictable and landings unsafe. Cool air also gives the balloon more lift, so it can carry more people with less fuel.Reason 1: The Winds Are Calmest Around DawnBalloons can only fly safely in light winds. Unlike a plane or helicopter, a balloon has no engine to push it; it travels with the wind. Gentle wind means a smooth flight and a soft landing. Strong or gusty wind means a fast, bumpy landing, or no flight at all.In the desert, wind is usually at its lightest in the early morning. As the day warms up, the wind generally picks up, often through the afternoon.Reason 2: No Desert Thermals YetWhen the sun heats the sand, the air just above it warms and rises in columns called thermals. Birds of prey and gliders love them. Balloons don't.A balloon flying into a thermal can be lifted or pushed unexpectedly, which makes it hard for the pilot to control altitude precisely. Desert sand heats quickly, so thermals start forming not long after sunrise. By mid-morning, conditions are usually no longer suitable. That's why flights are timed to take off around first light and land before the heat builds.Reason 3: Cool Air Means More LiftA hot air balloon flies because the air inside the envelope is hotter, and therefore lighter, than the air outside. The bigger the temperature difference, the more lift the balloon gets.On a cool morning, the pilot only needs to heat the envelope a moderate amount to get strong lift.On a hot afternoon, when the air outside might be 40°C or more, the envelope would have to be heated much more to generate the same lift, which means more fuel, more strain on the fabric and fewer passengers.This is also why balloon flights are easier in the cooler months, and why passenger weight matters so much at booking.Reason 4: Stable Air for a Smooth, Quiet FlightOvernight the ground cools, leaving a layer of cool, stable air near the surface. This stable layer is what gives you that famous smooth, silent feeling on a sunrise flight, where it feels like you're standing still while the world moves below.Reason 5: Safer LandingsEverything comes together at the end of the flight. Light winds mean a slower landing speed, and the chase crew can reach the landing site easily across the desert. That's why the safety rules put so much emphasis on the weather.Reason 6 (the Bonus): The LightAnd yes, the view. Sunrise light is low and warm, so it brings out every ripple in the dunes, casts long shadows and turns the sand orange and gold. Wildlife is also more active in the cool morning. It's the best time of day to see the desert, as well as the safest time to fly. Find out what you see from the basket.Why Not at Sunset?Evenings are usually windier and the air is still warm from the day, with thermals still rising from hot sand. Even if conditions calmed down, the balloon would have to land as it got dark, which makes it much harder for the pilot to judge the landing and for the chase crew to follow. Sunrise gives the pilot more daylight and calmer air for landing.Is There a Best Season for Sunrise Flights?Flights run through much of the year, but the cooler months (roughly October to April) usually have the most comfortable temperatures, clearer air and the best views. In summer, the sun rises earlier, so pickups are earlier too. See our guide to the best time to visit Dubai.Making the Early Start EasierGo to bed early the night before and lay out your clothes.Sleep on the drive. Your driver knows the way.Choose a package with breakfast to recover afterwards.Skip the 4 am alarm altogether with the overnight package: spend the evening and night at a desert camp, and wake up close to the launch site.[tours codes="AUT-HB-05,AUT-HB-03,AUT-HB-09"]Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat time is pickup for a Dubai balloon ride?Usually between around 4 and 5 am, depending on the season and where you're staying. Your exact time is sent the evening before.Can a flight be cancelled even at sunrise?Yes. If the wind, visibility or forecast isn't suitable, the operator will cancel or reschedule. You can then pick another date or get a refund.How long is the flight?Up to 60 minutes, depending on wind and weather on the day.Browse all sunrise hot air balloon rides in Dubai.

Read Article
What to Expect on Your First Hot Air Balloon Ride in Dubai From 2,000 AED
Sep 23, 2026

What to Expect on Your First Hot Air Balloon Ride in Dubai

Your first hot air balloon ride is a mix of excitement and questions. What time do I need to be up? Will it be cold? Does it feel scary? What happens when we land?This step-by-step guide takes you through a typical morning so nothing comes as a surprise.Quick AnswerExpect a pickup around 4–5 am, a drive to the desert of around an hour, refreshments and a safety briefing while the balloons are inflated, then up to 60 minutes of flight at sunrise. After a gentle landing you receive your flight certificate and, depending on your package, enjoy breakfast, a camel ride and archery before returning to Dubai by late morning.Before You Go: Booking EssentialsPassport copy for every passenger, needed at booking (GCAA regulation)Each passenger's weight, also at booking. Passengers over 119 kg (260 lbs) need an additional seat.Age: 5 to 80 yearsHealth: not suitable for pregnant women, or for people with heart conditions, severe back or knee problems, major surgery in the last 6 months or a fear of heightsYou'll get your pickup time the evening before. Flights depend on the weather, so keep your phone on in case of any change.Step-by-Step: Your Balloon Morning1. Early pickup (around 4–5 am)A 4x4 collects you from your hotel. On shared packages, the driver may make a few stops for other guests. Most people doze on the drive. If you've chosen the self-drive option, you'll get directions to the meeting point with your confirmation.2. Arrival at the launch siteYou arrive in the dark to a traditional majlis with tea, coffee and light refreshments. There are basic toilet facilities here; use them, as there aren't any on the balloon.3. Safety briefing and waiverThe crew explains how to get in and out of the basket and how to hold the landing position. Everyone signs a waiver. Listen carefully; it only takes a few minutes.4. Watching the inflationFans blow cold air into the envelopes, then the burners heat it and the balloons slowly rise off the sand. It's loud, bright and spectacular. Get your camera ready (see our photography tips).5. Climbing inOnce the balloon is upright, you climb into the basket using footholds in its side. It's a bit of a scramble, which is why you need to be moderately fit.6. Take-offThis surprises most first-timers: you barely feel it. There's no jolt; the ground just quietly drops away. Because you move with the wind, it feels calm, even at height.7. The flight (up to 60 minutes)The sun rises over the dunes, the other balloons spread across the sky, and the pilot changes altitude to find the best winds and views. Between burner blasts, it's remarkably quiet. Read more about what you'll see from the balloon.8. LandingThe pilot tells you when to take the landing position: knees bent, back to the direction of travel and holding the handles. Most landings are gentle. On a breezy morning, the basket may bump, tip onto its side or slide a little way, which is completely normal.9. Flight certificate and activitiesEveryone receives an official flight certificate. Then, depending on your package, you'll have a buffet breakfast at the desert camp, a camel ride, archery, a quad bike ride or a vintage Land Rover ride.10. Return to DubaiYou're driven back to your hotel, usually arriving by late morning. Most people are pleasantly tired, so plan something relaxed for the afternoon.How It FeelsMotion sickness? Very rare, as the balloon moves smoothly with the wind.Scary? Most people find it much calmer than expected. That said, it isn't recommended for anyone with a fear of heights.Hot or cold? Cold on the ground before dawn, especially November to March. Warm under the burners, and warmer again once the sun is up.Noisy? The burners roar in short bursts. In between, it's silent.What to WearLayers: a light jacket or fleece you can take off after sunriseClosed-toe flat shoes: the landing site is sandy and unevenA cap or hat: the burners overhead give off heatAvoid long loose scarves, dresses that make climbing difficult, and high heelsFor more ideas, see our desert outfit guide.What to BringPhone or camera with a strap, fully chargedSmall bag you can hold on your lap in the car (space in the basket is tight)Sunglasses for after sunriseAny medication you needCash or card for photos or souvenirsBest Packages for a First FlightFor most first-timers, we recommend the Deluxe package with breakfast: the complete sunrise morning, with time at the desert camp to relax afterwards. If you're watching your budget, the Standard flight gives you the same time in the air. Not sure? Read Standard vs Deluxe vs Adventure.[tours codes="AUT-HB-03,AUT-HB-01,AUT-HB-02"]What If the Flight Is Cancelled?All flights depend on the weather and may be rescheduled or cancelled for safety, sometimes at the last minute. If the operator cancels, you can choose another date or receive a refund. Tip: book your flight early in your trip, so there's time to reschedule if needed.Frequently Asked QuestionsDo I need to be fit?Moderately. You need to climb in and out of the basket without help and stand for up to an hour.Can I bring a bag?Keep it small. Space in the basket is limited, and the crew may ask you to leave larger bags in the vehicle.Is breakfast included?It's included in the Deluxe, Adventure, Vintage Land Rover and Overnight packages. The Standard package includes refreshments but not breakfast.Ready for your first flight? Browse all hot air balloon rides in Dubai.

Read Article