UAE Introduces Four New Visit Visa Categories and Key Entry Permit Amendments

The UAE has once again demonstrated its commitment to openness, innovation, and global competitiveness by unveiling four new visit visa categories and introducing several amendments to entry permits. Announced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), these changes are designed to attract global talent, enhance tourism, and streamline residency options while supporting humanitarian needs.

Four New Visit Visa Categories

1. Specialists in Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Aimed at attracting global technology experts, this visa can be issued as a single or multiple-entry permit. Applicants must provide a supporting letter from a licensed technology facility or host entity within the UAE.

2. Entertainment Sector

This visa targets foreign nationals entering the UAE temporarily to perform in entertainment-related events, further boosting the country’s cultural and creative industries.

3. Events Visa

Designed for attendees of festivals, conferences, exhibitions, sports, cultural, or educational events, this visa requires a letter of sponsorship from a UAE entity detailing the event and its duration.

4. Tourism via Cruise Ships and Yachts

Foreigners travelling aboard cruise ships or luxury leisure boats can now apply for a multiple-entry tourist visa, with sponsorship from a licensed tourism facility.

Each of these categories will have defined conditions for duration of stay and extensions, ensuring clarity for applicants and sponsors alike.

Humanitarian Residency Permits

The ICP will now issue humanitarian residence permits valid for one year, extendable under specific conditions. These permits apply to:

• Foreigners from countries affected by wars, disasters, or unrest.
  
• Widows and divorcees, subject to defined criteria.
  
• Relatives brought to the UAE under humanitarian circumstances, with possible exemptions from solvency or kinship requirements.
  

Notably, widows and divorcees may obtain residency within six months of the spouse’s death or divorce, provided they meet housing and financial requirements. Custody considerations will be addressed by the competent committee.

Family, Relatives, and Friends Sponsorship Rules

The new amendments introduce minimum income thresholds for UAE residents wishing to sponsor family or friends:

• Immediate family: Minimum salary of Dh4,000/month.
  
• Second- or third-degree relatives: Dh8,000/month.
  
• Friends: Dh15,000/month.

This move reflects the UAE’s aim to balance openness with sustainable residency management.

Business Exploration Visa Amendments

Applicants for the UAE Business Exploration Visa must now demonstrate financial solvency, either through proof of professional activity, existing establishments abroad, or sufficient resources aligned with the proposed business activity.

Truck Drivers’ Visa Updates

Truck drivers may now obtain single or multiple-entry visas through a licensed freight company or transport provider. Requirements include financial guarantees, prescribed fees, and health insurance coverage.

Why These Changes Matter

These amendments reinforce the UAE’s reputation as a global hub for business, tourism, and innovation, while also addressing humanitarian needs and tightening regulatory oversight. By clarifying rules for sponsorship, tourism, and specialised visas, the UAE aims to:

• Attract skilled professionals in AI and technology.
  
• Expand its cultural and entertainment offerings.
  
• Boost tourism through cruise and yacht travel.
  
• Ensure transparency in sponsorship and residency processes.
  

How Al Kabban & Associates Can Help

With decades of experience advising individuals, families, and businesses in the UAE, Al Kabban & Associates provides tailored legal guidance on:

• Visa applications and entry permit compliance.
  
• Residency options for families, entrepreneurs, and professionals.
  
• Business set-up and immigration support under evolving regulations.

For more information or to schedule a consultation with one of our UAE Immigration lawyers, contact us at +971 4 453 9090 or visit www.alkabban.com. 

You can also follow us on social media for more updates on everything law related in the UAE: @Alkabban_Law

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