For many UAE residents, Europe is a dream destination. From Paris and Rome to Zurich and Amsterdam, the Schengen visa makes it possible to explore 29 European countries with just one visa. But if you’re a frequent traveler from Dubai, a multiple-entry Schengen visa is the best option for flexibility and convenience.

In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the multiple-entry Schengen visa from Dubai, including:

• What a multiple-entry Schengen visa means
• How it differs from single-entry and double-entry visas
• Eligibility for UAE residents and expats
• Validity periods (6 months, 1 year, 2 years, 5 years)
• How to apply from Dubai step by step
• Tips to improve your chances of getting one
• Rules to follow (90/180 days stay rule)

Whether you’re applying for the first time or upgrading from a single-entry visa, this guide will help you travel smarter and stress-free.

A multiple-entry Schengen visa (MEV) allows you to enter and exit the Schengen Area multiple times during its validity period.

This means you can travel to Europe several times without reapplying for a new visa, as long as you respect the allowed stay limit.

Key features:

• Multiple trips to any Schengen country within the visa validity.
• Valid for 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, or up to 5 years.
• Stay limit: Maximum 90 days within any 180-day period.

This makes it perfect for business travelers, frequent tourists, or families with relatives in Europe.

When applying from Dubai, you’ll be asked to choose the type of visa:

Visa Type	What It Means	Who It’s Best For
Single-Entry Visa	Enter Schengen once; once you exit, visa becomes invalid	First-time travelers, short vacations
Double-Entry Visa	Enter twice during validity	Travelers with side-trips (e.g., Dubai–France–UK–France–Dubai)
Multiple-Entry Visa	Unlimited entries during visa validity	Frequent travelers, business trips, families

The duration of a multiple-entry visa depends on your travel history and the embassy’s discretion.

• 6-Month MEV – Often granted after 1–2 successful Schengen trips.
• 1-Year MEV – Common for frequent travelers with strong documentation.
• 2-Year MEV – For applicants with consistent travel history and clean visa records.
• 5-Year MEV – Rare but possible for business travelers or those with strong ties to Schengen countries.

Even with a 5-year visa, you must follow the 90/180 rule.

Also Read: How to Get Schengen Visa Extension in Dubai

Having a multiple-entry visa doesn’t mean you can stay indefinitely.

The rule is:

• You can stay up to 90 days within any rolling 180-day period.
  
• After using 90 days, you must leave the Schengen Area and wait until days fall outside the 180-day window.

Example:

• Stay in France from 1 March to 30 April (61 days).
  
• Return in June for 29 days.

Total = 90 days in 180 days. You must leave and cannot re-enter until the rolling window resets.

You may be eligible if you are:

• A UAE resident expat with a valid residence visa (3+ months validity).
• An Emirati national (though short stays are visa-free, long-stay Schengen visas may require applications).
• A frequent traveler with prior Schengen visas and good travel history.
• A business traveler attending multiple meetings or events across Europe.
• A tourist with family or property ties in Europe.

1. Choose the Right Embassy/Consulate

Apply through the Schengen country where you’ll spend the most days.
If days are equal, apply at the country of first entry.

2. Book an Appointment

Most Schengen countries in Dubai use VFS Global. Spain uses BLS International.

 

3. Gather Required Documents

Typical documents include:

• Completed Schengen visa application form.
• Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond travel.
• UAE residence visa (valid for 3+ months).
• Recent passport-sized photos.
• Flight reservation and hotel booking.
• Travel insurance covering €30,000.
• Bank statements (3–6 months).
• Salary certificate or employment letter (or trade license if self-employed).
• Invitation letter (if visiting family/business contacts).

If you’re applying for multiple entry, include documents showing the need for frequent travel (e.g., business letters, family ties, previous visas).

4. Attend Your Appointment at VFS Dubai

• Submit documents.
  
• Provide biometrics (fingerprints + photo).
  
• Pay visa fees + service charges.

5. Pay the Fees

 

6. Wait for Processing

• Normal processing: 7–15 working days.
• Peak season (summer & December): Up to 30 days.

7. Collect Your Passport

You’ll be notified by SMS/email. Collect your passport or request courier delivery.

1. Show travel history – Previous Schengen, US, or UK visas boost your credibility.
2. Provide a clear reason for multiple trips – Business contracts, family in Europe, or frequent holidays.
3. Submit strong financial proof – Bank statements and employer letters.
4. Avoid overstays – A clean record increases your chances for long-validity visas.
5. Request longer validity – Politely ask in your cover letter for multiple-entry visa consideration.

A multiple-entry Schengen visa from Dubai offers the flexibility to travel across Europe multiple times without reapplying each time. For frequent travelers, businesspeople, and families with ties to Europe, it’s the most practical choice.

We help UAE residents by:

• Preparing complete and accurate visa files
• Advising on the right embassy and category
• Assisting with multiple-entry visa requests
• Booking appointments and tracking applications
• Providing travel insurance, flights, and hotel support

With expert guidance, your chances of securing a longer multiple-entry Schengen visa are higher—making Europe just a short flight away whenever you need.

Can I apply for a multiple-entry visa on my first attempt?

 It’s rare but possible. Most first-time travelers get single-entry visas. Multiple entry is usually granted after 1–2 successful trips.

What’s the maximum duration for a multiple-entry Schengen visa?

 Up to 5 years, depending on embassy discretion and travel history.

Does a multiple-entry visa allow me to live in Europe?

 No. It only allows short stays (max 90 days per 180-day period). For long stays, you need a national visa or residency permit.

Can UAE citizens apply for multiple-entry Schengen visas?

 Emiratis don’t need visas for short stays (90 days). For longer stays, yes, they may apply.

Is travel insurance required for every trip under multiple entry?

 Yes. You must have valid travel insurance for every trip into Schengen.