Traveling from Dubai to Thailand is a popular choice for both UAE nationals and expatriates living in the UAE. One of the first questions most travelers ask is: How much does a Thailand visa cost from Dubai? The answer depends on your passport, the purpose of your visit and the type of visa you apply for. Let’s explore the details step by step.
Thailand Visa-Free Entry for UAE Nationals
If you are a UAE passport holder, you are in luck. Thailand allows UAE citizens to travel visa-free for short visits.
- Duration allowed: 30 days per entry.
- Purpose: Tourism and leisure visits only.
- Cost: Free of charge (0 AED).
This makes it very convenient for Emiratis who wish to visit Thailand for holidays. However, if you plan to stay longer than 30 days or travel for work or study, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa in advance.
Thailand Visa Costs for Expatriates Living in Dubai
Dubai is home to millions of expatriates who hold passports from India, Pakistan, Egypt, the Philippines, Bangladesh and many other countries. For these residents, the visa-free entry does not apply. Instead, the cost depends on the type of visa chosen.
a) Tourist Visa (Single Entry)
- Valid for 3 months from the date of issue.
- Allows a stay of up to 60 days in Thailand.
- Cost: Around 300–350 AED.
This option is ideal for travelers planning a one-time holiday to Thailand.
b) Tourist Visa (Multiple Entry)
- Valid for 6 months.
- Allows multiple visits, with each stay up to 60 days.
- Cost: Around 750–850 AED.
This visa is best for frequent travelers who want the flexibility to enter and leave Thailand multiple times during the validity period.
c) Non-Immigrant Visa (Work, Study, Business)
- Suitable for employment, education, family reunions or long-term stays.
- Validity ranges from 3 months to 1 year, depending on the visa category.
- Cost: Starting from 750 AED and can be higher.
This type of visa is required if the purpose of your trip is not tourism.
Visa on Arrival Fee in Thailand
Some nationalities can obtain a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at Thailand’s international airports and land borders.
- Duration allowed: 15 days only.
- Cost: 2,000 Thai Baht, which is approximately 210–220 AED.
- Requirements: Confirmed return ticket, proof of hotel booking and sufficient financial means (usually around 10,000 Baht per person).
This is a quick option but is limited to a short stay.
Thailand eVisa on Arrival (E-VOA)
Thailand also provides an eVisa on Arrival system, allowing travelers to apply online before their trip.
- Cost: Approximately 220 AED plus small processing fees charged by the service provider.
- Advantage: Saves time at the airport because approval is granted in advance.
This option is convenient for travelers who prefer handling paperwork before flying.
Extra Costs to Consider Beyond Visa Fee
When budgeting for your Thailand visa, remember that the official fee is only part of the total expense. Additional costs may include:
- Service charges if applying through a travel agency.
- Travel insurance (recommended and sometimes mandatory).
- Flight booking and hotel reservation costs, often required as part of the application.
- Document preparation fees (such as attestations or translations for business visas).
These extra expenses vary but are important to factor into your budget.
What Affects the Total Visa Cost?
The total cost you pay can depend on:
- The type of visa (single entry is cheaper, multiple entry is higher).
- The duration of stay (short stay vs. long-term).
- Whether you apply directly at the Thai Consulate in Dubai or through an agent.
- Any fast-track services you may use for urgent applications.
So, how much is a Thailand visa from Dubai? The answer depends on your passport and purpose of travel:
- UAE citizens: Free entry for 30 days (0 AED).
- Expatriates in Dubai: Tourist visa costs 300–350 AED for single entry and 750–850 AED for multiple entry.
- Visa on Arrival: About 220 AED for 15 days.
- Non-Immigrant Visas: Start from 750 AED and increase depending on category.
To avoid confusion, it’s always best to confirm the latest fees with the Royal Thai Consulate in Dubai or a licensed travel agency before applying.
In summary, while UAE passport holders enjoy free entry, expatriates should expect to pay anywhere between 300 AED and 850 AED, depending on the visa type. Careful planning will help ensure smooth travel to Thailand without unexpected costs.