How to Apply for a UK Visit Visa from Dubai in 2025
Travelling to the United Kingdom from Dubai requires careful preparation. Use this in-depth guide to understand the latest UK Standard Visitor Visa requirements, timeline expectations, and the expert support you receive from NextStep Travel & Tourism.
UK Visit Visa Overview
The Standard Visitor Visa allows Dubai residents to enter the UK for tourism, family visits, medical treatment, or short-term business trips. Approvals typically permit up to 180 days per visit, with multi-entry options for frequent travellers. Our consultants keep your application compliant so you can focus on planning your trip.
Step-by-Step Application Journey
- Eligibility Call: Confirm your travel purpose, travel history, and intended stay.
- Checklist Delivery: Receive a personalised document checklist with employment, financial, and travel evidence.
- Application Draft: We complete and review the UK visa form, ensuring answers match your supporting proof.
- Document Upload: High-quality scans are prepared and uploaded to the UKVCAS portal on your behalf.
- Appointment Booking: VFS appointments in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah are scheduled and confirmed for you.
- Biometric Submission: Attend your biometric session with a curated file and briefing prepared by our case team.
- Decision Follow-up: We track the decision status and notify you when your passport is ready for collection.
Documents You Need
- Passport valid at least six months beyond your travel dates with two blank pages.
- UAE residence visa valid for six months from the intended travel date.
- Two UK-compliant photographs (45mm x 35mm) taken within the last six months.
- Copy of Emirates ID and recent utility bill or tenancy contract to confirm residency.
- Six months of stamped bank statements showing salary credit and savings.
- No-objection letter from your employer with salary, designation, and approved leave dates.
- Detailed travel itinerary outlining flight plans and accommodation arrangements.
What Our Consultants Handle
Every application benefits from a dedicated case executive who provides:
- Tailored cover letter presenting the purpose of travel and ties to the UAE.
- Flight and hotel reservation assistance, plus travel insurance coordination.
- Document quality checks to catch discrepancies before submission.
- Mock interview preparation for applicants flagged for potential call-backs.
Fees and Processing Timeline
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Embassy Fee | ≈ 631 AED | Paid online during submission via the UK Home Office portal. |
| Service Fee | 799 AED | Includes consultation, document review, and appointment scheduling. |
| Total Estimated Cost | ≈ 1,430 AED | Does not include optional priority upgrades or courier services. |
Processing Time: Standard decisions take 14–30 days. Priority appointments can reduce processing to around five working days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a personal interview required? Interviews are rare when documentation is complete, but the embassy may request additional evidence.
How long can I stay? Successful applicants can stay up to 180 days per visit within the visa validity.
Can I extend my stay? Extensions inside the UK are limited. It is usually easier to return to the UAE and re-apply with a fresh purpose.