Travelling to the UAE just got a lot easier with the introduction of four new visit visas! Whether you’re attending an event, working on a tech project, or setting sail on a cruise, these new UAE visas cater to your needs. This major update to the country’s entry permit system aims to bolster key economic sectors and reinforce the UAE’s position as a hub for innovation, entertainment, and tourism. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) announced these changes as part of a broader package of amendments. If you’re planning to visit the Emirates soon and are clueless about the latest visa options, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
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All The New Visit Visa Categories
1. AI Specialist Visa
This visa targets professionals working in the field of artificial intelligence, allowing them to temporarily enter the UAE to support AI-centric projects, conduct research, or undertake specialised tasks. To apply, individuals must secure a letter from a sponsoring or hosting entity, typically provided by a licensed organisation within the tech sector.
2. Entertainment Visa
Planning to visit the UAE as a performer? Or are you a part of a production crew? In that case, this visa is intended for foreigners visiting the UAE for entertainment activities on a temporary basis. This visa must be sponsored by a licensed public or private-sector entity engaged in the entertainment industry.
3. Events Visa
This visa is for those visitors attending festivals, exhibitions, conferences and seminars. Additionally, the visa also applies to those events related to economics, culture, sports, religion, community, or education. To obtain this visa, the sponsor or host must be a public or private-sector entity. Applicants will also need a letter from the hosting organisation that must include details about the event and its duration.
4. Tourism Visa (Cruise and Leisure Boats)
Offering a multiple-entry visa, this visa permits visitors arriving by cruise ships and leisure boats to enter the UAE. The sponsor or host must be a licensed facility that organises cruise ship or leisure boat tourism. Additionally, the vessel’s itinerary must include stops in the UAE.
Extended Residency for Special Cases
While these new visa categories broaden the chances for visitors to enter the UAE, the ICP has also announced some important updates to residency and visa regulations. One update is the introduction of a humanitarian residence permit. This permit provides temporary or long-term residency to anyone facing conflict or disaster. The permit also helps anyone who needs to reunite with their family. It’s valid for one year and can be renewed under certain conditions. Another one-year residency permit is specifically for widows and divorcees. Applicants can renew this once they meet the specific criteria. The authorities have also expanded sponsorship rules for friends and relatives, allowing UAE residents to sponsor individuals up to the third degree of kinship.
Additional Visa Amendments
Recent amendments have clarified the requirements for the business exploration visa. Applicants must now provide proof of financial stability, demonstrate ownership of shares in a foreign company, or present evidence of professional practice. The truck driver visa, an authorised sponsor is now required, along with health and financial guarantees. The ICP also retains the authority to approve visas for nationals from countries facing conflict, disasters, or unrest, without the need for a guarantor or host. A humanitarian residence permit can be issued for one year and may be renewed under certain circumstances.
With the introduction of new visit visas and permits, these reforms highlight the UAE’s ongoing commitment to flexibility and economic diversification as it adjusts its entry pathways.
For more information about visit visas, visit the official ICP website.
