The UAE has added four new visit visa categories aimed at specialists in artificial intelligence, entertainment, events, and cruise ship tourism.
These changes are part of updated entry visa regulations announced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).
New visit visas explained
The UAE’s new visa categories are designed to attract global talent and visitors in key sectors like technology, tourism, and entertainment. The categories include:
Artificial intelligence specialists: These visas allow single or multiple entries for AI experts. Applicants must provide a sponsorship letter from a relevant technology-focused organisation.
Entertainment professionals: Issued for short-term visits to work in entertainment, this visa supports the growing cultural sector.
Event attendees: For visitors attending festivals, exhibitions, conferences, seminars, or cultural and sports events. Sponsors must be public or private entities with an official invitation letter detailing the event and its duration.
Cruise ship tourists: This multiple-entry visa applies to tourists arriving on cruise ships or leisure boats stopping in the UAE, with sponsorship from licensed maritime facilities.
Humanitarian residence permits
The ICP will also issue humanitarian residence permits valid for one year, with the option to extend. These permits aim to assist foreigners from countries affected by war, disasters, or unrest. Importantly, these permits do not require a guarantor or host.
Residency under this permit can be renewed or cancelled based on reports from the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs. The permit becomes void if the holder leaves the UAE.
Residency for widows and divorcees
New rules allow foreign widows or divorcees to obtain one-year renewable residence permits.
If the husband is Emirati: The widow or divorcee can apply for residency within six months of the husband’s death or divorce, even without children.
If the husband is a foreigner: Residency is granted if the widow or divorcee has custody of children and meets residency requirements within six months of the event.
Financial solvency and adequate housing remain essential requirements. Custody disputes will be resolved by a competent committee.
Sponsoring relatives and friends
The UAE now requires minimum income levels for residents sponsoring family or friends:
Immediate family: Minimum monthly salary of Dh4,000.
Second- or third-degree relatives: Minimum salary of Dh8,000.
Friends: Minimum salary of Dh15,000.
Business exploration visa update
Applicants for the Business Exploration Visa must now demonstrate financial solvency relevant to their business activity. They should also already be engaged professionally or through an existing company outside the UAE.
Truck drivers’ visa amendments
Truck drivers can obtain single or multiple entry visas if sponsored by a freight or transportation company. Requirements include a financial guarantee, applicable fees, and valid health insurance.
These visa changes reflect the UAE’s commitment to openness and its aim to attract global talent and visitors while streamlining entry requirements for key sectors. They also offer humanitarian support and clarify residency rules for widows, divorcees, and sponsors.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
