UAE Adds Four New Visit Visa Types & Revises Rules

The UAE has expanded its visa framework by introducing four new categories of visit visas and tightening rules for existing visa types, according to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP). The move is aimed at boosting tourism, business activity, and specialized talent inflows, while also ensuring greater transparency and regulation.

New Visit Visa Categories

The newly introduced visas include:

• AI Specialists Visa – for professionals and experts in artificial intelligence, sponsored by recognized technology establishments.
• Entertainment Visa – for visitors linked to entertainment and cultural activities.
• Event Visa – for participants attending conferences, exhibitions, festivals, or educational programs, requiring sponsorship from institutions.
• Cruise/Tourism Visa – multiple-entry permits for visitors arriving via cruise ships, in coordination with licensed tourism operators.

Revised Rules for Drivers, Family and Friends

The ICP also updated rules for existing visit visas:

• Truck Drivers: Eligible for single or multiple-entry visas, subject to sponsorship by transport firms and meeting financial and insurance conditions.
• Friends and Relatives: New income thresholds apply for UAE residents sponsoring visitors:
  • AED 4,000 for first-degree relatives
  • AED 8,000 for second- or third-degree relatives
  • AED 15,000 for friends

Business and Humanitarian Visas

Applicants for the Business Exploration Visa must now show proof of financial solvency or professional engagement.
Humanitarian visas will be valid for one year, with possible extensions for people from conflict-hit countries. Widows and divorced women may also obtain residency within six months without a sponsor, provided they meet financial and housing criteria.

Transparency and Oversight

To streamline the system, the ICP has issued a detailed annex defining six categories of entry visa durations and clarifying extension approval authority. Officials said the reforms are part of a long-term strategy to improve the UAE’s global competitiveness, quality of life, and support for trade and tourism.