A new requirement is being discussed for all Dubai visa applicants — you may soon need to upload the external passport cover page (the front cover showing the emblem, country name etc.), in addition to your regular bio page.
This change hasn’t been officially confirmed yet, but travel agents and visa service providers are already acting as if it will go into effect.
What That Means for Applicants
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Both the bio page (photo, details) and the external cover page may be required.
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This could apply to all nationalities and across all visa categories: tourist, business, transit, etc.
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If you’re applying now or planning to, it’s safer to prepare the cover page; having it ready could help avoid delays or rejections.
How to Prepare
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Scan or take a clear photo of the passport’s front cover. Ensure the emblem and all text are legible.
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Save as a common format (JPEG, JPG, or PDF).
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Be ready to upload it alongside other required documents (bio page, photos, etc.).
What to Watch Out For
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Because the rule hasn’t been formally announced, it may appear gradually on different visa application platforms.
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Check with UAE immigration portals, official visa sites or embassies for updates.
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Submissions missing the cover page may be held up or asked for additional documents.
Final Thought
Even though nothing is official yet, this kind of small addition can catch many by surprise. If you plan to apply for a Dubai visa soon, adding the passport cover page ahead of time is a smart move. Better safe than stuck in paperwork.