The modern attractions, employment opportunities and convenient connectivity to Dubai have made it one of the most sought-after international tourist destinations, job seekers, and families by Sri Lankan tourists. Visitors to Dubai with a Sri Lankan passport should pre-obtain a pre-approved Dubai visa. It is an easy-to-understand step-by-step guide on how to apply for the Dubai visa from Sri Lanka.

1.      Do the Sri Lankans require a visa to Dubai?

Yes, the Sri Lankan nationals are required to carry a valid Dubai visa to be able to get into the UAE. Sri Lankan passport holders have no visa-on-arrival facilities. Visas to Dubai are granted by the travel agencies or airlines that are approved by the UAE and cannot be requested at the UAE embassy in Sri Lanka.

2.      Types of Dubai Visas Available for Sri Lankans

There are various types of Dubai visa that the Sri Lankan travelers can select depending on the length of stay and the purpose of visit. If you are planning to apply for Dubai Visa from Sri Lanka then the best one is the 14-day tourist Visa is applicable when the visit is short or fast. The most popular type of tourism and family visits is the 30 Days Dubai Tourist Visa. In case of staying longer, there is 60 Days Tourist Visa which permits long stay or extended visits. Short-layover travelers may choose either a 48-hour and a 96-hour Transit Visa. The majority of the visas come in single entry or multiple entry types.

3.      Documents Required for Dubai Visa from Sri Lanka

The visa application documents required to apply to Dubai as a Sri Lankan citizen are:

·        Authentic Sri Lankan passport (6 months validity required).

·        Passport-size picture (white background).

·        Duplicate of Sri Lankan National ID.

·        Confirmed return air ticket.

·        Hotel reservation or accommodation information.

·        Bank statement or funds proof (where necessary).

·        Active email ID and contact number.

Make sure that all the documents are clear, colored as well as high-resolution.

4.      Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Dubai Visa from Sri Lanka

·        Step 1: Select a trusted UAE registered travel agency or airline company that provides the services of visa to Dubai.

·        Step 2: Choose the right type of visa depending on the reason and duration of your travels.

·        Step 3: Email the scanned copies of all the necessary documents or opt for an online application form from the agency.

·        Step 4: Pay the visa fee in Dubai with the help of the secure online payment options or as the agent advises.

·        Step 5: The travel agency forwards your application to the UAE immigration authorities to process your application.

·        Step 6: Monitor your Dubai visa status online in case the service is provided by the provider.

·        Step 7: Your Dubai e-Visa is issued in PDF format by e-mail upon approval.

No one has to go to the embassy at any point. The visa application process of Dubai in Sri Lanka is entirely done online. The travelers should also print the approved e-Visa and carry it during the travel to Dubai.

5.      Dubai Visa Processing Time from Sri Lanka

An average visa processing time of a Sri Lankan applicant applying to the city of Dubai takes between 3 and 5 days of working time. In the event of any express processing, it can be 24-48 hours. Processing can be postponed on UAE weekends, on the occasion of public holidays, or when there is a peak travel season.

Final Notes

It is a simple online application when a visa to Dubai is applied in Sri Lanka using an established travel agency. With the correct visa type and proper documentation and prior applications, the Sri Lankan tourists will have a hassle-free experience visiting Dubai, whether on tourism, visiting with family or staying short.