Quick Answer: Nepali citizens need to arrange a Dubai tourist visa before travelling — the UAE does not offer visa-on-arrival for an ordinary Nepali passport. Applicants can choose between a 30-day or 60-day single-entry tourist visa, and beyond the standard passport, photo, and flight documents, Nepali nationals are typically also asked for a Police Character Certificate (PCC) and a refundable UAE security deposit (commonly around AED 950), which is forfeited in the event of an overstay. Standard processing generally takes 48 to 72 hours. You can apply for a Dubai visa online through Express Visa Dubai, with document upload, transparent pricing, and real-time tracking. Always confirm current fees and deposit conditions with UAE ICP or a licensed visa agent before booking flights.
Planning a trip from Nepal to Dubai? Unlike some nationalities, Nepali passport holders can't simply land and receive a visa at the airport — a tourist visa needs to be arranged and approved before departure. This guide explains exactly what's required, what makes the Nepal-to-Dubai visa process a little different from other nationalities, how much it costs, and how to apply online through Express Visa Dubai.
Do Nepali Citizens Need a Visa for Dubai?
Yes. Nepal is not on the UAE's visa-free or visa-on-arrival list, so Nepali citizens must apply for and receive an approved tourist visa before travelling to Dubai or anywhere else in the UAE. This applies regardless of the purpose of travel — tourism, family visits, or short business trips all require a pre-approved visa. Airlines will not allow boarding without one, so this is a step to complete well before finalising flight bookings.
Types of Dubai Tourist Visas for Nepali Citizens
● 30-day single-entry tourist visa: The most common option for a standard holiday or family visit.
● 60-day single-entry tourist visa: Suited to longer stays or extended family visits.
If you're unsure which duration fits your trip, our visa types page outlines the full range of Dubai visa options, and our guide comparing single entry vs multiple entry visas can help if you're weighing up your options.
Documents Required for a Dubai Visa From Nepal
● Passport valid for at least 6 months from your date of travel
● A recent colour passport-size photo with a white background
● Confirmed return or onward flight ticket
● Proof of UAE accommodation — a hotel booking or invitation letter from a UAE resident
● A Police Character Certificate (PCC), where applicable
● MOFA-attested supporting documents, where applicable to your application
The PCC and attestation requirements are a distinctive part of the process for Nepali applicants compared with several other nationalities, so it's worth starting on these documents early, as they can take longer to obtain than the visa application itself.
The UAE Security Deposit for Nepali Applicants
Nepali tourist visa applications typically require a refundable UAE security deposit, commonly cited around AED 950. This deposit is intended to guarantee that the traveller exits the UAE within their approved visa validity. It's generally refunded after departure, provided the traveller has not overstayed — even an overstay of a few hours can result in forfeiture of the deposit, and in more serious cases, an additional absconding fine can apply. Because deposit amounts and refund conditions can vary by visa provider and change over time, always confirm the exact terms before paying.
How to Apply for a Dubai Visa From Nepal Online
1. Choose your visa type — 30-day or 60-day single entry, based on your travel plans.
2. Gather your documents — passport, photo, PCC, and any required attested documents, since these can take the longest to prepare.
3. Submit your application — complete the online form and upload your documents through the Express Visa Dubai application page.
4. Pay the visa fee and security deposit — complete payment securely online, with all costs shown upfront.
5. Track your application — monitor progress through our visa status tracker until approval.
6. Receive your eVisa — your approved visa arrives by email as a PDF, ready to print or show on your phone at check-in and immigration.
Dubai Visa Cost From Nepal
Tourist visa pricing for Nepali applicants is generally higher than for some other nationalities, reflecting the additional documentation and refundable security deposit involved. Costs vary by visa duration and processing speed, with express processing available at an additional cost for time-sensitive travel. Express Visa Dubai displays all pricing clearly on the application page before you pay, so there are no hidden charges beyond the refundable deposit.
Dubai Visa Processing Time for Nepali Applicants
Standard processing typically takes 48 to 72 hours once all documents are submitted correctly, though actual timelines can vary depending on immigration verification requirements. Because documents like the Police Character Certificate can take time to obtain, we recommend starting your application at least two to three weeks before your planned travel date, and checking your application status rather than assuming automatic approval.
Common Mistakes Nepali Travelers Make
● Assuming visa-on-arrival is available, and booking flights before a visa is approved
● Underestimating how long it takes to obtain a Police Character Certificate
● Not accounting for the refundable security deposit when budgeting for the trip
● Overstaying even briefly, which risks forfeiting the security deposit and incurring further fines
● Submitting a blurry or incomplete passport scan, which delays processing
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Nepali citizens need a visa for Dubai?
Yes. Nepal is not on the UAE's visa-free or visa-on-arrival list, so a tourist visa must be applied for and approved before travelling.
What visa types are available for Nepali tourists visiting Dubai?
Nepali citizens can typically apply for a 30-day or 60-day single-entry tourist visa, depending on the length of their planned stay.
Is a security deposit required for a Dubai visa from Nepal?
Yes, in most cases. A refundable UAE security deposit, commonly around AED 950, is generally required and refunded after the traveller exits the UAE within their approved visa validity.
What happens if I overstay with a Nepali tourist visa?
Even a brief overstay can result in forfeiture of the security deposit, and more serious overstays can trigger an additional absconding fine.
What documents does a Police Character Certificate involve, and why is it needed?
A Police Character Certificate (PCC) confirms an applicant has no criminal record and is a standard supporting document for Nepali tourist visa applications. It can take time to obtain, so it's best requested early.
How long does it take to get a Dubai visa from Nepal?
Standard processing typically takes 48 to 72 hours once documents are submitted, though total timelines can be longer if documents like the PCC take time to prepare beforehand.
How much does a Dubai visa from Nepal cost?
Cost depends on visa duration and processing speed, and is generally higher than for some other nationalities due to additional documentation and the refundable security deposit. Exact pricing is shown upfront before payment.
Can I apply for a Dubai visa online from Nepal?
Yes. You can complete the entire application through Express Visa Dubai, including document upload, payment, and tracking.