Expert: Roberto Gomes - 12/21/2010

Question
Hello Mr. Gomes,
In January, I am planning to travel to Malaysia from the US (I am a US citizen holding a US passport) via Emirates Airlines, which has a 3 hour layover in Dubai. If I do not leave the airport, do I need to have a visa?
Many thanks in advance!

Answer
Dear Joseph,

First of all, sorry for the delay but I wasn't notified of your question.
As far as travel via Dubai, since you hold a US passport a visa is required, except for transit passengers continuing their journey to a third country by the same or the first connecting
aircraft within 24 hours and holding:
- tickets with confirmed seats; and
- documents required for their next destination; and
- not leaving the transit area.

If there is a problem-delay with the flight the visa can be issue on arrival (free of charge) for a stay of max. 30 days (extension of another 30 days possible, at a fee of AED 600.-) to
 nationals of U.S.A.

This facility is not applicable to passengers arriving on flights operated by Singapore Airlines.

My best Regards,
R. Gomes