As the UAE looks ahead to 2026, a series of visa reforms are set to reshape how residents, visitors, and professionals enter and stay in the country. Announced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, the updates include new visit visa categories, revised sponsorship requirements, and service changes for Golden Visa holders. These changes are all aimed at creating a more streamlined and transparent system. Whether you’re planning to travel to the UAE for business or pleasure, this guide is your go-to for all the latest visa updates.
Also Read: 8 Major Changes Coming To UAE In 2026
New UAE Visit-Visa Categories
From 2026 onwards, the UAE has introduced four new visit visa options under its updated visa system. These revisions aim at supporting emerging industries, tourism growth, and large-scale international events. The visas include:
- Artificial Intelligence Specialists: An AI specialist visa is available for single or multiple entries. This must be sponsored by licensed, AI-focused entities operating in the country.
- Entertainment Visa: These visas have been introduced for visitors participating in cultural, artistic, and tourism-related activities.
- Events Visa: This visa covers conferences, exhibitions, and festivals, as well as sporting, religious, and educational gatherings.
- Maritime Tourism Visa: This is a multiple-entry visa designed for cruise passengers and travellers arriving on leisure vessels.
Key Updates To Existing UAE Visa Rules
As we approach 2026, several existing visa categories have also been revised to improve clarity and regulation.
1. Foreign Truck Drivers
Foreign truck drivers can now apply for single or multiple-entry visas, subject to stricter conditions. These include sponsorship by accredited logistics companies, financial guarantees, and compliance with health requirements.
2. Sponsorship Rules
Sponsorship rules for visitors will take effect in 2026. The revised minimum income thresholds are now linked to the relationship between the sponsor and the visitor. Sponsors must earn at least:
- AED 4,000 per month to bring first-degree relatives
- AED 8,000 for second and third-degree relatives
- AED 15,000 when sponsoring a friend
3. Business Visa
For this visa, applicants need to demonstrate financial capacity. Additionally, overseas professional experience or formal recognition of their occupation by relevant authorities is required.
4. Humanitarian Residency Visas
This visa is granted on a case-by-case basis to individuals from conflict or disaster-affected countries. These visas are valid for one year, renewable, and do not require a sponsor.
5. Visa Provisions For Widows & Divorcees
Visa provisions also apply to widows and divorcees previously married to UAE nationals or residents. For this visa, eligible applicants may receive six-month residencies with possible extensions. Additionally, custodial mothers can sponsor their children, subject to housing and financial requirements.
6. Unified Schedule
To improve transparency and consistency, authorities have also adopted a unified schedule outlining visa durations and approving entities across categories.
Golden Visa Service Updates
While several key changes take effect from the New Year, new service enhancements will take effect for Golden Visa holders. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with the federal authority, has launched five new services to provide greater support and protection abroad.
These services include
- Electronic return documents for lost passports
- 24-hour emergency assistance
- Humanitarian evacuation services
- Repatriation of remains
- Access to a dedicated global hotline for Golden Visa holders.
For all the latest updates, don’t forget to keep reading Gulf Buzz, or for more information about visas, visit the official Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security website.
