In 2026, you generally do not need a transit visa in Dubai if you remain within the airport's international transit area and your connection time is less than 24 hours. You must have a confirmed onward ticket and all necessary documents for your final destination. If your layover exceeds 24 hours or you wish to pass through immigration to stay in a hotel or see the city, you will likely need a transit visa (48-hour or 96-hour) or be from a country that qualifies for a visa-on-arrival. It is important to note that if you are changing airlines and need to collect and re-check bags, you may need to clear immigration, which would require a visa.