Unlock UAE Career Goals With Dubai Job Exploration Visit Visa

On 16 September 2026, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai reaffirmed the availability of the Job Exploration Visit Visa, which allows skilled professionals and recent graduates to enter the UAE to seek employment, attend interviews, and network without the need for a local sponsor or employer. This program is particularly significant for Indian job seekers, who can secure employment before transitioning their visit visa into a residency permit.

• Single-entry status with no sponsor requirement
• Validity periods of 60, 90, or 120 days
• Extension possible up to approximately 180 days

Visa Features And Eligibility

Key features of the visa include single-entry status with no sponsor requirement, and validity periods of 60, 90, or 120 days. Through GDRFA services, the visa may be extended for a total stay of up to approximately 180 days. Eligibility requires applicants to hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, possess a Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) skill level of 1, 2, or 3, or have graduated from a top 500 global university within the last two years. Required documentation includes a color photograph, a passport valid for at least six months, an attested degree, and a financial guarantee where applicable. Applications can be processed via GDRFA Dubai Smart Services or ICP Smart Services.

Fees, Rules, And Application Details

Fees are approximately AED 200 plus VAT for 60 days, AED 300 for 90 days, and AED 400 for 120 days, excluding refundable security deposits and additional service charges. Engaging in employment while on this visa is prohibited; once a job offer is secured, the employer must initiate the work permit and residency visa process. Overstaying the visa duration incurs a penalty of AED 50 per day. For Indian applicants, mandatory degree attestation follows the process of HRD authentication, MEA apostille, and UAE Embassy attestation. This update was reported by Gulf News and Arab Times between 10-11 September 2026, with further official information available via the UAE government portal and GDRFA Dubai service channels.