September 30, 2025 | Dubai, UAE: The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has announced the introduction of four new visit visa categories, along with significant amendments to entry permits and residency regulations in the United Arab Emirates. These new UAE visit visas are part of a broader reform aimed at streamlining immigration policies and creating flexible options for professionals, families and tourists.

According to officials, these modifications are intended to advance the nation’s long-term strategy aimed at attracting international talent, bolstering the tourism sector, and providing adaptable options for residents and their families. The updates encompass four new visit visa categories, provisions for humanitarian residency, regulations regarding family sponsorship, and permits designated for certain business and employment classifications. By implementing new UAE visit visas, authorities also aim to position the country as a forward looking global hub.

Four New Visit Visa Categories

The four new visit visa categories target professionals, tourists, and visitors across different sectors.

Artificial Intelligence Specialists

This category is designed for professionals working in artificial intelligence. It allows both single- and multiple-entry options. Applicants must present a letter from a UAE-based company or institution active in the technology sector. The initiative reflects the country’s focus on becoming a leader in advanced technologies.

Four New Visit Visa Categories Announced as Part of New UAE Visit Visas

Entertainment Visa

The entertainment visa is for individuals visiting the UAE to perform or participate in entertainment activities. This includes artists, performers, and others involved in shows and productions. By including this in the four new visit visa categories, the UAE provides easier entry for international talent. The launch of such new UAE visit visas strengthens the country’s reputation as a global entertainment hub.

Event Visa

This visa supports visitors attending or taking part in festivals, conferences, exhibitions, cultural programs, religious gatherings, or sports competitions. Hosts or sponsors must provide event details and confirm the duration of stay. The new category aligns with the UAE’s growing role as a global events hub.

Cruise and Maritime Tourism Visa

Tourists arriving by cruise ships or leisure vessels can now apply for this visa. It allows multiple entries if the travel itinerary includes UAE ports. Only licensed tourism operators can act as sponsors. Authorities expect this to boost maritime tourism, an increasingly important part of the UAE’s visitor economy.

Residency and Entry Permit Amendments

Several amendments have also been announced for existing residency and entry permit categories.

Humanitarian Residence Permit

A one-year renewable permit is now available for individuals from countries affected by war, disasters, or political unrest. It can be granted without a guarantor, providing temporary relief to affected foreign nationals.

Read More: UAE Visit Visa to Residence Visa: New Legal Requirements Explained for UAE Jobseekers

Residency for Widows and Divorcees

Foreign widows and divorcees can now apply for a one-year residency permit, which can be renewed under certain conditions. Applications must be submitted within six months of the husband’s death or divorce. Different rules apply depending on whether the husband was Emirati or a foreign national.

Sponsorship for Relatives and Friends

The UAE has introduced revised minimum income requirements for expatriates wishing to sponsor relatives or friends:

Immediate family members: AED 4,000 per month
Second- or third-degree relatives: AED 8,000 per month
Friends: AED 15,000 per month

The change is aimed at ensuring financial stability for sponsors while regulating sponsorship more effectively.

Updates to Business and Professional Permits

The UAE has also refined visa rules for professionals and workers in specialized sectors.

Business Exploration Visa

Applicants must now prove financial solvency and provide evidence of either an existing business abroad or professional expertise in their field. This ensures that only qualified individuals with a clear business background can access this visa.

Truck Drivers’ Visa

Truck drivers working for freight and transport companies can be granted single or multiple-entry permits. Sponsors must be licensed transport companies, and drivers must meet insurance and financial guarantee requirements. This move supports the logistics and transport industry, a key pillar of the UAE economy.

Broader Implications

Officials emphasized that the revised system aligns with the United Arab Emirates’ commitment to modernizing immigration procedures. By concentrating on vital sectors such as artificial intelligence, entertainment, and tourism, the nation seeks to enhance its capacity to attract skilled professionals and international events.

Furthermore, the introduction of humanitarian residency and family sponsorship regulations demonstrates an approach that integrates economic advancement with social accountability. Concurrently, the establishment of new minimum income thresholds stipulates that only those residents who fulfill specific financial requirements will be entitled to sponsor relatives or friends.

The Immigration Control Program (ICP) has indicated that all newly issued visas and amendments will adhere to defined criteria. Applicants are required to submit supporting documentation, which may include letters from sponsors, proof of income, or business records.

Final Note

The recent introduction of four new visit visa categories, alongside amendments to entry permits, represents a substantial enhancement of the United Arab Emirates’ visa framework. These new UAE visit visas aim to address the diverse requirements of various demographics, including artificial intelligence specialists, performers, tourists, and transport workers.

Government officials have articulated that this revised system will facilitate the nation’s overarching objectives of attracting international talent, advancing tourism initiatives, and addressing humanitarian needs, all while implementing stricter regulations regarding sponsorship and financial accountability.

Through these reforms, the United Arab Emirates reaffirms its commitment to establishing itself as a premier destination for employment, tourism, and investment opportunities, while ensuring that new UAE visit visas contribute meaningfully to long term national goals.