On Monday, the UAE launched four new visit visa categories, targeting specialists in AI, entertainment, events, cruise ships, and yachts.
This initiative is part of significant changes to entry visa regulations announced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).
The revised rules aim to boost the UAE’s global openness and attract talent, expertise, and entrepreneurs, particularly in technology, entertainment, and tourism sectors.
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Each visa type will have clear schedules detailing the permitted stay duration and extension conditions.
New Visit Visas
The four new entry visa categories include:
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AI Specialists: Single or multiple entry permits available for a set period, requiring a letter from a sponsoring or hosting tech entity.
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Entertainment: Issued to foreigners visiting temporarily for entertainment reasons.
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Events: Granted to foreigners attending festivals, exhibitions, conferences, or similar events, requiring a sponsorship letter detailing the event and duration.
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Tourism: Multiple-entry visas for tourists using cruise ships and leisure boats, contingent on UAE stops and a licensed activity sponsor.
Humanitarian Residence Permit
A humanitarian residence permit is offered for one year, extendable by ICP decision under specific conditions.
ICP may continue issuing visas to foreigners from countries facing wars, disasters, or unrest without a sponsor. Residency can be renewed or cancelled based on Directorate reports. It becomes void if the beneficiary leaves the UAE.
Exceptions for bringing relatives under humanitarian cases allow waiving financial or kinship requirements, adhering to existing regulations.
Widows, Divorcees
New changes include a one-year residence permit for foreign widows or divorcees, renewable for another year.
If Married to Emirati: Residency is granted if applied within six months of husband’s death or divorce.
If Married to Foreigner: Widows or divorcees with child custody can obtain residency within six months if present in the UAE, with the husband as guarantor at the time.
Custody disputes are resolved by a competent committee, requiring financial and housing standards. Extensions are possible for valid reasons.
Relatives, Friends
A visit visa for friends or relatives up to the third degree permits sponsorship based on income.
Sponsors must meet minimum income levels: Dh4,000 for immediate family, Dh8,000 for second- or third-degree relatives, and Dh15,000 for friends.
Business Exploration Visa
The Business Exploration Visa now requires financial solvency aligned with the intended activity or existing business engagement outside the UAE.
Truck Drivers’ Visa
Truck drivers can obtain single or multiple entry visas, needing a freight company sponsorship, financial guarantee, fee, and health insurance.
