Airport to Airport (A2A) visa change is a convenient procedure that allows travelers to renew their UAE visa by taking a short international flight to a neighboring country and returning to the UAE with a new visa status. This service helps tourists, visit visa holders, and those transitioning from resident visa cancellations extend their stay in the UAE without traveling back to their home country.
The A2A visa change process has specific requirements and procedures that, when followed correctly, can provide a smooth visa renewal experience. This comprehensive guide explains common issues travelers may encounter and how to avoid them for a successful visa change.
What is A2A Visa Change Meaning?
Airport to Airport (A2A) visa change refers to the process of departing from a UAE airport (Dubai, Sharjah, or Abu Dhabi), flying to nearby destinations like Muscat, Kuwait, or Doha, and returning within hours or the same day with an approved new visa. This process allows you to extend your UAE stay efficiently when planned properly.
Common UAE Airport Visa Change Issues and How to Avoid Them
Issue #1: Incomplete Documentation
One of the most common reasons for visa processing delays or rejections is incomplete or incorrect documentation.
What Happens: When documentation is incomplete, the visa application may be delayed for review or rejected. In case of rejection, travelers will need to return to their home country or current location and reapply with complete documents.
How to Avoid: Ensure all required documents are prepared and verified before starting your A2A visa change. Working with an experienced travel agency like White Sky Travel ensures your documentation is complete and meets current requirements.
Issue #2: Choosing Wrong Day for Travel
Common Issue: Scheduling your A2A visa change on Friday can create complications.
Why This Matters: Since Saturday and Sunday are holidays in the UAE, if any visa delays happen when you travel on Friday, you may face extended waiting periods over the weekend when government offices are closed.
How to Avoid:
- Best Days: Monday to Thursday
- Avoid: Friday departures
- Plan your A2A visa change on weekdays for smoother processing
Issue #3: Passport Validity and Condition
Common Issue: Passports with less than 6 months validity can cause visa rejection.
How to Avoid:
- Ensure passport is valid for at least 6 months from your intended return date
- Ensure passport is in good condition (no torn pages, water damage, or unclear stamps)
- Renew passport before starting A2A process if needed
Issue #4: Previous Immigration History
Common Issue: Previous visa violations, overstays, or unpaid fines can affect new visa applications.
How to Avoid:
- Clear any previous overstay fines before applying
- Ensure previous UAE visas were properly cancelled
- Disclose any previous immigration issues to your travel agent for proper assessment
Issue #5: Processing Time Delays
What May Happen: Visa processing during A2A may take longer than expected. Traditional processing is 6-12 hours, but some applications may require 24-48 hours or more.
How to Manage:
- Plan flexible travel dates with buffer time
- Avoid booking A2A during peak seasons or UAE public holidays
- Keep essential items for potential airport waiting (phone charger, snacks, reading material)
- Maintain communication with your travel agent throughout the process
Issue #6: Incorrect eGate Usage
Common Mistake: Using the eGate automated immigration system at Terminal 2 before visa approval is properly registered in the system.
How to Avoid:
- Do NOT use eGate when returning to Dubai until your travel agent confirms visa is approved and registered
- Use manual immigration counters for visa verification
- Wait in Terminal 2 designated area if visa is still processing upon your return
Issue #7: Flight Timing Challenges
Common Issue: Booking flights with insufficient time between departure and return can create pressure if visa processing takes longer than expected.
How to Avoid:
- Book flights with minimum 5-hour gap between departure and return
- Choose early morning departures for maximum processing window
- Work with White Sky Travel to select optimal flight timings
Issue #7: Understanding Visa Rejection Process
What Happens if Visa is Rejected: If your visa application is rejected by UAE Immigration Authorities, you will need to book a flight to your home country or current location. Visa processing fees are non-refundable as they cover government processing costs.
Common Rejection Reasons:
- Incomplete documentation
- Passport validity issues
- Previous immigration violations
- Documentation errors or unclear scans
- Professional background not meeting requirements for certain nationalities
- Security or background check concerns
How to Minimize Rejection Risk: Work with experienced travel agents who verify all documentation before you travel. White Sky Travel reviews all documents thoroughly to maximize approval chances.
Services Currently Available and NOT Available
Currently Available: 60-Day A2A Visa Change Only
Important Update: As of now, airport to airport visa change is only available for 60-day tourist visas. The 30-day and airport to airport visa change 90 days options are temporarily not available but may resume soon.
What This Means:
- All A2A visa changes through Fly Dubai and Air Arabia are for 60-day visas
- If you need a different visa duration, consider in-country extension or other visa options
- Contact White Sky Travel for updates on when other durations become available
A2A Visa Change by Bus – NOT Available
Airport to airport visa change specifically requires air travel through UAE airports. Land border visa changes are a separate process (not A2A) available for specific nationalities like Filipino, Indian nationals.
Airport to Airport Visa Change UAE Price
Current A2A Visa Change Cost (60-Day Visa – 2025/2026)
White Sky Travel offers transparent pricing for A2A visa changes:
For Tourist Visa Holders:
- Price: AED 1,850 (No deposit required)
- Visa Duration: 60 days
- Payment Options: Tabby and Tamara installments available for UAE residents
- Includes: Flight tickets + visa processing + service coordination
For Resident Visa Cancellation Status:
- Price: AED 1,550 (No deposit required)
- Visa Duration: 60 days
- Payment Options: Flexible installment plans through Tabby and Tamara
- Includes: Flight tickets + visa processing + documentation assistance
Additional Charges:
- Nationality Surcharge: AED 100 for specific nationalities requiring extended processing
No Hidden Costs: All fees are transparent with no surprise charges.
Alternative: Visa Extension Without Exit
Cost: AED 1,200 for 30-day extension within UAE
Advantages: Straightforward processing, no travel required, processed within 48 hours
Disadvantages: Only 30-day extension (vs 60-day with A2A), slightly more expensive per day
Best For: Those needing only 30-day extension and preferring in-country processing
Complete Airport to Airport Visa Change Process
Required Documents
Essential Documents for A2A Visa Change:
- Passport
- Valid for at least 6 months
- Minimum 2 blank pages
- Clear, undamaged condition
- Recent Photograph
- Passport-sized (43mm x 55mm)
- White background
- Taken within last 6 months
- Previous Visa or Resident Cancellation Paper
- Current/previous UAE visa copy (for tourist visa holders)
- Official cancellation paper (for resident cancellation)
- Passport Back Cover Photo
- Clear image of the back cover
That’s it! The A2A visa change process requires only these basic documents. No need for bank statements, hotel bookings, return tickets, or travel insurance.
Step-by-Step A2A Visa Change Procedure
Before Travel (3-5 Days in Advance)
Step 1: Complete Guarantee Form Fill out the official guarantee form at: https://applyvisa.app
Step 2: Document Verification Contact White Sky Travel for complete document review and verification
Step 3: Flight Booking White Sky Travel books your Fly Dubai flights to Muscat, Kuwait, or available destinations
Day of Travel – Departure
Step 4: Arrive at Airport Arrive at Dubai International Airport Terminal 2 at least 5 hours before departure
Step 5: Check-In Process
- Complete check-in at Fly Dubai counters
- Collect boarding passes for both outbound and return flights
- Take clear photos of both boarding passes
- Send photos to White Sky Travel agent via WhatsApp (+971 52 292 1011 | +971 4 220 2133)
Step 6: Immigration Clearance
- Proceed to immigration area
- Use automated passport machines
- Ensure exit stamp is registered
- Inform your agent immediately after clearing immigration
Step 7: Board Flight
- Stay near departure gate
- Board when announced
At Destination Airport
Step 8: Transit Procedures
- Complete any required transit formalities
- Proceed to return flight check-in area
- Stay in transit zone
Step 9: Return Flight Check-In
- Check in for your return flight
- Locate designated waiting area
- Maintain contact with your agent
Return to Dubai
Step 10: Visa Status Update Your agent will update you on visa approval status:
- If approved: You’ll receive visa PDF via WhatsApp
- If pending: You can stay at the airport – both Fly Dubai and Air Arabia allow passengers to wait until visa is approved
Important: Flight timing is not an issue. Both airlines accommodate passengers who need to wait for visa approval, so you can return on your scheduled flight even if visa is still processing.
Step 11: Arrival at Terminal 2
Once Agent Sends PDF Visa:
- You can use eGate for quick entry
- Present your passport at eGate
- Receive entry stamp automatically
If Visa is Still Processing:
- Use manual immigration counters
- Wait in Terminal 2 designated area
- Stay in communication with your agent
- Once PDF is ready, proceed with entry
Step 12: Entry and Completion Once you have your visa PDF from your agent, complete immigration entry and enjoy your extended UAE stay.
Airport to Airport Options by Emirate
Fly Dubai Airport to Airport Visa Change (Dubai)
Operating From: Dubai International Airport Terminal 2
Airlines: Fly Dubai
Destinations: Muscat (Oman), Kuwait City, Doha
Best For: Dubai residents and those in nearby emirates
Airport to Airport Visa Change Sharjah (Air Arabia)
Operating From: Sharjah International Airport
Airlines: Air Arabia
Destinations: Muscat (Oman), Kuwait City
Best For: Sharjah residents
A2A Visa Change Abu Dhabi
Operating From: Abu Dhabi International Airport
Airlines: Air Arabia
Destinations: Muscat (Oman), Kuwait City
Best For: Abu Dhabi residents
Tips for Successful A2A Visa Change
1. Preparation is Key
- Start document preparation 5-7 days before travel
- Verify all requirements are met
- Complete guarantee form in advance
- Work with experienced travel agents
2. Choose Optimal Timing
- AVOID FRIDAY DEPARTURES – If delays occur, you’ll face weekend waiting (Sat-Sun are holidays)
- Best Days: Monday to Thursday
- Avoid UAE public holidays and peak seasons
- Apply when you have 10-15 days remaining on current visa
3. Don’t Worry About Flight Timing
- Both Fly Dubai and Air Arabia allow you to stay at the airport until visa is approved
- You can return on your scheduled flight even if visa is processing
- No need to book extra-long gaps between flights
- Airlines are familiar with A2A process and accommodate passengers
4. Stay Organized
- Keep all documents in one folder
- Have digital copies on phone and cloud storage
- Save agent contact numbers
- Carry phone charger and essentials for airport waiting
5. Maintain Communication
- Keep WhatsApp active throughout the process
- Respond promptly to agent requests
- Inform agent of any changes or issues
- Ask questions if anything is unclear
6. Be Patient and Flexible
- Understand processing times may vary
- Stay calm if there are delays
- Trust the process and your travel agent
- Once you get PDF from agent, you can use eGate for quick entry
Understanding Visa Approval and Rejection
Visa Approval: Visa applications are reviewed and approved by UAE Immigration Authorities based on documentation completeness, eligibility criteria, and security checks. Most properly prepared applications are approved within 6-24 hours.
In Case of Rejection: If your visa is rejected, you will need to book a flight to your home country or current location. You can then reapply for a UAE visa through proper channels, addressing any issues that caused the rejection.
Important to Know:
- Visa processing fees are non-refundable (cover government processing)
- Flight tickets may be partially refundable depending on airline policy
- Rejection decisions are made solely by UAE Immigration Authorities
- Travel agents provide coordination service but cannot guarantee approval
Watch Our A2A Visa Change Video Guide
For a visual walkthrough of the complete process, watch our detailed guide:
This video demonstrates:
- Step-by-step procedure
- Document preparation
- Airport navigation
- Common questions answered
- Current requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does A2A visa change take?
A: Typically 6-12 hours from departure to return entry. Some applications may take 24-48 hours. Don’t worry – both Fly Dubai and Air Arabia allow you to stay at the airport until your visa is approved.
Q: What visa duration is available through A2A?
A: Currently, only 60-day tourist visas are available through A2A. The 30-day and 90-day options are temporarily not available but may resume soon.
Q: What if my visa is still pending when I return to Dubai?
A: You can stay at the airport – both airlines accommodate this. Wait in Terminal 2 designated area with your essentials (phone charger, reading material). Once your agent sends the PDF visa, you can use eGate for quick entry.
Q: Do I need to book flights with long gaps between departure and return?
A: No, flight timing is not an issue. Both Fly Dubai and Air Arabia allow passengers to wait at the airport for visa approval. You can book convenient flight times.
Q: Can I use eGate when I return?
A: Yes! Once your agent sends you the PDF visa output, you can use eGate for quick and easy entry.
Q: What day should I avoid for A2A visa change?
A: Avoid Friday departures. If any delays occur, you’ll face weekend waiting since Saturday and Sunday are holidays. Best days are Monday to Thursday.
Q: Can I get a refund if my visa is rejected?
A: Visa processing fees are non-refundable as they cover government processing costs.
Q: Which airport is best for A2A visa change?
A: All three (Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi) follow similar procedures. Choose based on your location. Dubai has most flight options through Fly Dubai.
Q: How many days before visa expiry should I do A2A?
A: We recommend starting the process when you have 10-15 days remaining on your current visa. This provides buffer time for any processing needs.
Q: What’s the difference between tourist visa holder and resident cancellation pricing?
A: Tourist visa holders pay AED 1,850 (need new 60-day visa). Resident cancellation status pays AED 1,550 (transitioning from cancelled residency to 60-day tourist visa).
Q: Can I extend my visa without doing A2A?
A: Yes, in-country extension costs AED 1,200 for 30 days. This option is straightforward but gives you only 30 days vs 60 days with A2A.
Q: What documents do I need for A2A visa change?
A: You only need 4 basic documents: (1) Valid passport, (2) Recent photo, (3) Previous visa or cancellation paper, (4) Passport back cover photo. No need for bank statements, hotel bookings, or return tickets!
Q: What nationalities pay the additional AED 100 fee?
A: Specific nationalities requiring extended processing pay AED 100 additional. Contact White Sky Travel to check if this applies to you.
Q: What happens if my passport has less than 6 months validity?
A: Your visa will likely be rejected. Renew your passport before attempting A2A visa change.
Why Choose White Sky Travel for A2A Visa Change?
Our Services Include:
✅ Complete Documentation Review: Verify all requirements before travel
✅ Current Requirements Consultation: Updated guidance on UAE visa regulations
✅ Fly Dubai Flight Booking: Competitive pricing with flexible timing
✅ 24/7 WhatsApp Support: Real-time communication (+971 4 220 2133)
✅ Visa Application Processing: Immediate submission upon your exit
✅ Status Monitoring: Continuous tracking throughout the process
✅ Flexible Payment: Tabby and Tamara installments, no deposit required
✅ Expert Guidance: Experienced team supporting your success
Why White Sky Travel?
- ✓ Licensed UAE travel agency with proper credentials
- ✓ Years of experience with A2A visa changes
- ✓ Updated daily on current immigration requirements
- ✓ Thorough documentation review maximizes approval chances
- ✓ Honest assessment before you commit to travel
- ✓ Will recommend best option for your situation (A2A or in-country extension)
- ✓ Comprehensive support from application to UAE entry
- ✓ Fair pricing with flexible payment plans
- ✓ Clear communication about process and requirements
Contact White Sky Travel
Ready to process your UAE airport to airport visa change? Contact us for professional assistance:
White Sky Travel and Tourism L.L.C
📍 Location: Room 202, Royal Class Building, Green Community Village, Dubai Investment Park 1, Dubai, UAE
📞 Telephone: +971 4 220 2133
📱 WhatsApp: +971 52 292 1011
✉️ Email: support@whitesky.ae
🌐 Website: whitesky.ae | whitesky.travel
🔗 Quick Links: https://linktr.ee/whiteskytravel
📋 Complete Guarantee Form: https://applyvisa.app
🎥 Watch Process Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zW8CrnCr9Sw
Get Started Today
- Fill out guarantee form at https://applyvisa.app
- Contact us via WhatsApp: +971 52 292 1011 | +971 4 220 2133
- Schedule free documentation review
- Receive personalized quote and timeline
- Book your A2A visa change with confidence
Flexible Payment Options: Pay through Tabby or Tamara installments with no deposit required for UAE residents.
Summary: Your Path to Successful A2A Visa Change
The airport to airport visa change process is simple and efficient when you:
✓ Prepare Basic Documents: Only need passport, photo, previous visa/cancellation paper, and passport back cover
✓ Choose Right Travel Day: Avoid Friday
✓ Don’t Worry About Flight Timing: FlyDubai, Air Arabia Airlines allow you to wait for visa approval
✓ Work with Professionals: Let experienced agents handle the process
✓ Follow Procedures: Complete each step as instructed
✓ Stay Patient: Processing takes 6-48 hours, and you can wait comfortably at airport
✓ Use eGate: Once agent sends PDF visa, quick entry through eGate
Current A2A Visa Available: 60-day tourist visa only (30 and 90-day options may resume soon)
Pricing:
- Tourist visa holders: AED 1,850
- Resident cancellation: AED 1,550
- Flexible payment through Tabby and Tamara
White Sky Travel is here to guide you through every step of your A2A visa change, ensuring you have the best chance of success. Our experienced team stays updated on all current requirements and provides the support you need for a smooth visa renewal experience.
Contact us today to start your A2A visa change process with confidence!