The UAE is taking bold steps to welcome more visitors, professionals, and entrepreneurs by introducing four new visit visa categories.
These visas aim to make the country more accessible for specialists, tourists, and event-goers while also ensuring flexibility for residents bringing family and friends.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has rolled out fresh visa types for AI experts, entertainment seekers, event attendees, and cruise ship travelers.
Along with this, new rules for humanitarian cases, widows/divorcees, and sponsoring relatives have also been introduced.
The Four New Visit Visas
- AI Specialist Visa – For Artificial Intelligence experts, available as single or multiple entry permits, with a letter from a hosting entity.
- Entertainment Visa – For foreigners coming to the UAE for entertainment purposes for a limited time.
- Cruise & Leisure Boat Visa – For those arriving via luxury yachts or cruise ships, provided the UAE is a scheduled stop.
- Event Attendee Visa – For visitors attending festivals, exhibitions, conferences, seminars, or cultural/sports events. Requires a host letter and event details.
Other Key Visa Updates You Should Know
- Humanitarian Residence Visa – Issued for one year (extendable) to people from war-torn or disaster-hit countries, without needing a guarantor or host.
- Widows & Divorcees Visa – Foreign widows and divorcees can now stay in the UAE for up to one year, with renewal options depending on conditions like custody of children.
- Sponsoring Family & Friends – Residents must meet new minimum income requirements:
- AED 4,000/month to sponsor immediate family
- AED 8,000/month for second/third-degree relatives
- AED 15,000/month for friends
- Business Exploration Visa – Applicants must prove financial solvency aligned with the type of business activity.
- Truck Drivers’ Visa – Now available as single or multiple entry permits if sponsored by a registered freight company.
With these updates, the UAE is not just opening its doors wider for tourism, but also creating smoother pathways for professionals, families, and humanitarian cases.
