UAE Offers Free Tourist Visas for Children Under 18 from 15 July to 15 September
Planning a family holiday to the UAE during the summer? Families traveling with children can benefit from a valuable UAE government initiative that waives tourist visa fees for eligible children under 18 years of age.
The seasonal exemption is available every year from 15 July to 15 September, making it easier and more affordable for families to visit popular destinations such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah.
Khaleej Buzz explains who qualifies, how the exemption works, how to apply, required documents, and the most important rules families should know before traveling.
Free Tourist Visas For Children In UAE
During the yearly summer travel period, which runs from July 15 to September 15, the UAE provides free tourist visas for qualified children under the age of 18, assisting families in lowering their travel expenses.
Travellers must fulfil the formal eligibility conditions and apply through authorised UAE visa channels prior to their journey in order to take advantage of the exemption.
Also Read: Prepaid Offers & DU Unlimited Data For 1 Month!
What Is the UAE Free Tourist Visa for Children?
The UAE government introduced a seasonal visa fee exemption to encourage family tourism during the summer holiday period.
Under this initiative:
Who Is Eligible for the Free Tourist Visa?
Not every child automatically qualifies. Families should ensure all eligibility conditions are met.
Basic Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
| Child’s age | Must be under 18 years |
| Travel period | Arrival between 15 July and 15 September |
| Parent requirement | Must travel with one or both parents |
| Purpose | Tourism only |
| Visa type | Tourist visa application |
The exemption is designed specifically for family tourism and is not intended for employment, residence, or other visa categories.
What Costs Are Waived?
The initiative waives the tourist visa fee for eligible children.
Families should remember that other travel expenses may still apply, including:
Only the qualifying child’s visa fee is covered under the government exemption. (UAE Supreme Council)
How to Apply for a Free Tourist Visa for Children
Families can submit applications through approved UAE visa channels.
Common Application Options
During the application process, applicants should select the appropriate family tourist visa option (where available) and include the details of both the parent(s) and accompanying child so the exemption can be applied automatically for eligible applicants.
Also Read: Why UAE Shoppers Still Buy Single-Use Plastic Bags
UAE Child Visa Processing Time
| Visa Category | Estimated Processing Time |
| Short-Term Tourist Visa (30 Days) | 2–5 working days |
| Long-Term Tourist Visa (60 Days) | 3–5 working days |
| Family Visit Visa | 3–7 working days |
| Child Residence Visa (Dependent) | 5–10 working days |
| Golden Visa for Eligible Children | 10–20 working days |
Tip: Apply at least 2–3 weeks before your planned travel date to allow enough time for processing and avoid last-minute delays.
Documents You May Need
Requirements may vary depending on the visa provider, but commonly requested documents include:
Always verify the latest document requirements before submitting your application.
Important Rules Families Should Know
Before making travel arrangements, keep these important points in mind.
The Child Must Travel With a Parent
The exemption is intended for children accompanying their parent or parents.
Travel Dates Matter
The benefit is available only during the annual period from 15 July through 15 September.
Tourist Visa Only
The exemption applies to eligible tourist visas and should not be confused with residence, employment, or other entry permits.
Normal Immigration Rules Still Apply
Receiving a fee waiver does not guarantee entry into the UAE. Travelers must still satisfy immigration requirements and carry valid travel documents.
Why the UAE Introduced This Initiative
The UAE has positioned itself as one of the world’s leading family-friendly tourism destinations.
By reducing visa costs during school holidays, the government aims to:
The initiative complements the country’s wider efforts to attract international visitors through simplified visa services and family-focused tourism policies.
Benefits for Families Visiting the UAE
Families can enjoy several advantages beyond the visa fee exemption.
Lower Travel Costs
Parents save on visa expenses for eligible children, making family holidays more budget-friendly.
Better Summer Travel Planning
The waiver coincides with school vacations in many countries.
Access to Family Attractions
Visitors can explore:
Travel Tips Before Applying
To avoid delays:
- Apply well before your travel date.
- Ensure passports remain valid for the required period.
- Double-check your child’s date of birth.
- Book through approved airlines or licensed travel agencies.
- Keep printed and digital copies of all travel documents.
- Review the latest UAE visa rules before departure.
Conclusion
The UAE’s annual Free Tourist Visa for Children Under 18 initiative makes family travel more affordable during the summer holiday season.
Available from 15 July to 15 September, the program allows eligible children traveling with their parents to receive a tourist visa without paying the standard visa fee.
Since visa regulations may change, checking the latest official guidance before traveling is always recommended.
FAQs
Is the free tourist visa available all year?
No. The exemption is available annually between 15 July and 15 September.
What age qualifies?
Children under 18 years of age are eligible if they meet the program requirements.
Can a child travel alone and receive the exemption?
No. The child must accompany at least one parent traveling on a tourist visa.
Does the waiver include airline tickets?
No. The exemption only covers the eligible child’s tourist visa fee. Flights, accommodation, insurance, and other travel costs remain the traveler’s responsibility.
Can applications be submitted through airlines?
Yes. Several UAE airlines provide tourist visa services for eligible travelers. Licensed travel agencies and authorized visa channels also process applications.
Does every nationality qualify?
Eligibility depends on the applicable UAE visa rules for the traveler’s nationality. Some nationalities already enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access, while others require a tourist visa before travel.
Is the visa automatically free for every child?
The exemption applies only when the eligibility conditions are satisfied and the application is submitted through an approved process.
