Consultancy Yalah Dubai has published an updated, 4,000-word explainer on the so-called ‘Business Visit Visa’, spelling out the differences between a self-applied visa to “explore business opportunities” and an entry permit sponsored by a UAE company or resident. The guide, dated 8 October 2026, draws on the latest fee tables from Dubai’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP). Key take-aways: applicants can choose 60-, 90- or 120-day stays under the self-sponsored exploration route, with fees starting at AED 200 plus VAT and a refundable AED 1,000 security deposit. Company-sponsored permits remain available for 30, 60 or 90 days and require a valid trade licence, establishment card and proof of commercial purpose. Overstays now incur fines of AED 50 per day, and total time in country may not exceed 120 days without converting to a work or residence visa. The article also warns firms against acting as “visa factories”; sponsors can face penalties or suspension of their immigration file if visitors overstay or work illegally. For multinationals, the guidance is a timely refresher as trade-show season ramps up—GITEX, ADIPEC and COP28 legacy events are all drawing large numbers of short-term visitors. Practical tips include maintaining a spreadsheet of visa expiry dates, ensuring invited guests have six months’ passport validity, and budgeting two working days for standard processing. HR teams are advised to keep invitation letters and itinerary proof on hand, as airlines or immigration officers may request evidence of the trip’s commercial purpose.
Source: Yalah Dubai
