The United Arab Emirates introduced four new visit visa categories and updated conditions for several existing permits, aiming to draw specialists and streamline travel.
New visas target artificial intelligence experts, entertainers, event attendees, and cruise tourists
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security announced fresh entry options to support technology, entertainment, and tourism.
Specialists in artificial intelligence can now obtain single or multiple entry visas with a sponsor’s letter from a recognised technology institution.
Foreign performers and crews may apply for an entertainment visa for short stays tied to shows or productions.
An event visa will cover festivals, exhibitions, conferences, seminars, and cultural or religious gatherings with a host entity’s sponsorship and proper documentation.
Authorities also introduced multiple entry permits for tourists arriving by cruise ship or pleasure boat, which require a detailed itinerary and a licensed tourism operator as guarantor.
Officials said the reforms aim to raise quality of life, support trade and transport, and reinforce the UAE’s status as a global hub.
Sponsor income thresholds set for visits to friends and relatives under new rules
Hosts will face clear income requirements when inviting family and friends. A guarantor earning at least four thousand dirhams per month may sponsor a first degree relative.
Second or third degree relatives require a minimum income of eight thousand dirhams.
Friends may only be sponsored if the host earns at least fifteen thousand dirhams monthly.
The changes sit alongside updated visas for foreign truck drivers, who can obtain single or multiple entry permits through licensed shipping or transport companies and must provide a financial guarantee, pay fees, and hold valid health insurance.
Business exploration, humanitarian cases, and residency protections receive structured pathways
Applicants for the business exploration visa must show financial solvency that matches their planned activity or prove related operations abroad.
Humanitarian case visas will run for one year with extensions possible at the discretion of the authority for people from countries facing war or disasters.
The decision also creates a pathway for foreign widows or divorcees of citizens to obtain residency without a sponsor within six months, with provisions for child custody and the ability to act as guarantor.
In every case, officials will require proof of financial solvency and suitable housing.
Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili said the package followed careful studies and responds to both humanitarian and economic needs.
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