UAE Introduces New Visit Visas and Streamlines Residency Rules to Boost Global Appeal

In a significant move to strengthen its position as a global hub for talent, tourism, and technology, the UAE's Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) has announced a sweeping update to its visa system. The decision introduces four new visit visa purposes and refines the conditions for several existing visas, aiming to attract skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and tourists.

Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, ICP Director General, stated that the reforms are the result of comprehensive studies and customer feedback. He emphasized their role in supporting the UAE's economic diversification, community security, and global competitiveness by meeting the evolving needs of those wishing to live, work, or invest in the country.

New Visa Categories for a Modern Economy

The update introduces four targeted entry visas:

• AI Specialist Visa: For experts in artificial intelligence, sponsored by a technology-focused establishment.
• Entertainment Visa: For foreigners visiting for temporary entertainment purposes.
• Event Visa: For attendees of festivals, conferences, exhibitions, and other activities, requiring a letter from the public or private sector host.
• Tourism Visa for Cruise Passengers: A multiple-entry visa for tourists arriving via cruise ships, with a licensed tour operator as the sponsor.
• Revised Regulations for Existing Visas

Key changes to current visas include:

• Truck Drivers: A new visa category for foreign truck drivers, with a shipping or logistics company as the sponsor.
• Visiting Friends/Relatives: Stricter financial requirements for sponsors, with minimum salaries ranging from Dh4,000 for first-degree relatives to Dh15,000 for friends.
• Business Exploration: A new condition requiring applicants to demonstrate financial solvency related to their intended business activity.
• Humanitarian Cases: Visas for those from conflict zones are now limited to one year, subject to renewal or cancellation by authorities. The rules also provide more clarity and flexibility for sponsoring relatives in humanitarian situations.

Support for Families Through Life Changes

A notable humanitarian provision addresses the residency of foreign widows and divorcees of UAE citizens. The decision allows them to obtain residence without a sponsor for six months from the date of death or divorce. For those with children, residency can be granted provided they are the legal custodian and meet conditions of financial solvency and suitable housing.

To ensure clarity and transparency, the decision also includes a detailed schedule governing visa durations and extension authorities, tailoring the stay period to the specific purpose of each visa type.

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