UAE Introduces 4 New Visit Visas Along With Major Residency Rules Updates
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The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has rolled out four new visit visa categories as part of the latest update to entry and residency rules, as specified in the recent announcement by the federal authority of Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).
These visas have been designed to attract global talent in sectors like technology, entertainment, tourism, and events, while also serving as a measure to reinforce the UAE's commitment to openness and innovation. The clear timelines or schedules will now specify your stay duration, and visa conditions renewals for each new category.
Newly Announced UAE Visit Visa Categories
The newly announced Visit Visa categories by the UAE include:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Specialists in Artificial Intelligence (AI) | This is a single or multiple-entry visa which will be issued for a specific period of time, and applicants must submit a letter from the sponsoring or hosting entity, such as a technology facility |
| Entertainment Professionals | These visas are for foreigners entering the country temporarily for entertainment-related purposes. |
| Event Participants | This visa is for festivals, exhibitions, conferences, seminars, or economic, cultural, sports, religious, and community activities. A host from the public or private sector must provide a letter with the complete event details and dates. |
| Tourism by Sea | This multiple-entry visa is for visitors arriving on cruise ships or leisure boats. However, the schedule must include a stop in the UAE, and the sponsor must be a facility licensed for search activity. |
New Humanitarian Residence Permit
- A new one-year renewable humanitarian residence permit has been introduced by the UAE for foreigners from countries facing war, disasters, or political instability.
- No guarantor or host is required to avail this visa; however, the permit becomes void if the holder leaves the UAE.
- The Director General may also waive financial and kinship requirements in humanitarian cases, where relatives are brought along
New Residence Permits for Widows or Divorcees
The ICP will now offer a one-year renewable Residence Permit for widows and divorcees, in the following cases:
- If the husband were Emirati, the application must be made within six months of death or divorce
- If the husband were a foreigner, residency may be granted if the widow has custody of the children and applies within six months. The deceased must have been the guarantor, and the applicant must already be residing in the UAE, making her eligible to sponsor her children under her name.
The applicants are also required to prove their financial stability and meet the adequate housing requirements, while any custody disputes would be handled by a competent committee
Sponsorship Rules for Relatives and Friends
The UAE has updated income thresholds for sponsors to be eligible for sponsoring relatives and friends to the UAE. The updated income thresholds are as follows:
- Immediate Family: DH 4,000 per month
- Second and Third Degree Relatives: DH 8,000 per month
- Friends: DH 15,000 per month
Business Exploration Visa Requirements Updates
The Business Exploration Visas now require applicants to prove their financial solvency suitable for the business activity and provide evidence of running an overseas company, or demonstrate professional engagement in the relevant sector.
Truck Drivers' Visas in the UAE
The revised rules now allow single or multiple entry permits for truck drivers sponsored by licensed flight or transport companies. Applicants are also required to provide a financial guarantee, pay the required fees, and hold a valid health insurance.
Explore Opportunities in the UAE with a Job Seeker Visa
The updated UAE framework reflects the country’s vision of being the global hub for talent, innovation, and tourism, while also providing humanitarian support and family-friendly policies.
If you are also interested in considering opportunities in the UAE, consider reaching out to GetGIS for UAE immigration and Job Seeker Visa assistance.
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