The United Arab Emirates has rolled out four new visit visa categories, aimed at attracting specialists and visitors in fields such as artificial intelligence, entertainment, global events, cruise ships, and luxury yachts.
Ad powered by advergic.com
The announcement, made by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), is part of a broader set of amendments to entry and residency rules. Officials said the new framework reflects the UAE’s commitment to openness, as well as its efforts to draw global talent, innovators, entrepreneurs, and tourists.
Clear guidelines will specify the duration of stay for each visa type, along with rules for renewal and extensions.
The New Visit Visas
- Artificial Intelligence Specialists: Available as single or multiple-entry permits for set periods, provided applicants submit a letter from a recognised entity in the technology sector.
- Entertainment Industry: Granted to individuals visiting the UAE for temporary entertainment-related purposes.
- Event Participants: Issued for short stays linked to conferences, festivals, exhibitions, seminars, and other cultural, economic, educational, sports, or community events. A host entity from the public or private sector must provide details of the event.
- Tourism via Cruise Ships and Yachts: Allows multiple entries for visitors arriving through cruise liners or leisure boats, on the condition that their itineraries include UAE ports and that a licensed facility sponsors their visit.
Humanitarian Residency
The UAE has also introduced a one-year humanitarian residency permit, extendable upon ICP approval. This visa applies to people from conflict or disaster-affected countries, with no guarantor or host required.
It may be renewed or cancelled depending on reports from the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs, and will automatically be cancelled if the holder leaves the UAE.
For residents bringing in relatives under humanitarian grounds, exemptions may be granted for financial and kinship requirements in specific cases.
ALSO READ
Pakistani Expat in Dubai Suffers Rare Heart Rupture
Residency for Widows and Divorcees
The updated rules also include a one-year residency permit for widows and divorcees, renewable for another year:
- If the husband was Emirati: The foreign widow or divorcee without children can apply within six months of the death or divorce.
- If the husband was a foreign resident: The foreign widow or divorcee may apply if she has custody of her children, provided she was in the UAE at the time of death or divorce and her late husband was the guarantor.
Custody disputes will be handled by the relevant committee, and applicants must meet financial solvency and housing requirements.
ALSO READ
UAE Confirms Dates for 3 Supermoons and 3 Meteor Showers Before the End of 2025
Sponsorship for Relatives and Friends
Expatriates wishing to sponsor relatives or friends must now meet minimum income thresholds:
- Immediate family: Dh4,000 monthly salary.
- Second- or third-degree relatives: Dh8,000 monthly salary.
- Friends: Dh15,000 monthly salary.
Business Exploration Visa
Applicants for the Business Exploration Visa must now demonstrate financial solvency or proof of professional engagement in their chosen field, either through an existing business abroad or relevant experience.
Truck Drivers’ Visa
The revised rules also cover truck drivers’ entry permits, which can be single or multiple entry. These require sponsorship by a licensed freight or logistics company, submission of a financial guarantee, payment of fees, and valid health insurance.
DATE . Oct/1/2025