The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has made major changes to its visa and residency system, introducing four new visit visa categories.
These reforms aim to attract global talent, boost tourism, and promote inclusivity. The new visas will make it easier for professionals and other visitors to enter the UAE.
New Visit Visas in the UAE
The UAE government has introduced special visas for professionals in high-demand fields and tourism-related sectors. The four new visit visas are:
AI Expert Visa – Designed for Artificial Intelligence (AI) experts, this visa allows single or multiple entries and is sponsored by licensed technology institutions. It aims to grow AI talent in the UAE.
Cruise Tourism Visa – Targeted at cruise passengers and crew, this multiple-entry visa supports the growing cruise tourism sector, boosting tourism and hospitality revenue.
Event Visa – Simplifies entry for professionals and enthusiasts attending conferences, exhibitions, and festivals in the UAE.
Entertainment Visa – For individuals participating in commercial gaming or entertainment activities sponsored by licensed entities, strengthening the UAE’s entertainment and digital gaming ecosystem.
Changes in Residence and Entry Visa Rules
The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has also updated residence and entry visa regulations:
Humanitarian Residence Permits – Issued for one year, these permits are now renewable. They assist foreigners from countries affected by war, disasters, or unrest.
Residence periods can be extended or revoked based on reports from the Directorate General of Identity and Foreigners Affairs.
Support for Widows and Divorcees – Foreign widows or divorced spouses of UAE citizens can now apply for a one-year renewable residence permit if they were residing in the UAE at the time and sponsored by their husband, and if they have legal custody of children they wish to sponsor.
Family, Friend, and Truck Driver Visas – Family and friend visas now allow sponsorship of relatives and friends up to the third degree, depending on income.
Truck drivers can apply for single- or multiple-entry visas with sponsorship from a licensed freight company, financial guarantees, and health insurance.
How to Apply for the New Visas
Applicants must generally obtain sponsorship from a licensed UAE entity relevant to the visa category. They must submit necessary documents such as:
Marriage, divorce, or death certificates
Certificate of financial capacity
Health and security clearances
Applications can be submitted through the official UAE portal or via licensed immigration consultants.
Benefits for Indian Professionals
The new visa categories are especially beneficial for Indian professionals who faced high H-1B visa fees in the U.S., which rose to $100,000 (around Rs 88 lakh).
Indians can now consider moving to the UAE, which is a popular destination. In 2024, about 7.8 million Indians visited the UAE.
