The UAE government has introduced significant changes to its visa and residency system, unveiling new categories designed to attract global talent and strengthen sectors such as tourism, technology, and entertainment. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) stated that these updates aim to improve quality of life, drive economic growth, and also address humanitarian needs.
The new regulations include four specialised visit visas, expanded residency options for widows, divorcees, and those in humanitarian situations, as well as revised rules for visiting relatives, friends, and business travellers. Officials said the changes were developed after detailed studies and feedback from both residents and international stakeholders.
Four new categories of visit visas
The AI Specialist Visa will be issued for single or multiple entries, based on a letter from a sponsoring technology company. An Entertainment Visa has been introduced for foreigners visiting temporarily for leisure. An Event Visa will allow entry for festivals, exhibitions, conferences, seminars, or other activities in cultural, economic, sports, religious, or educational fields. The Cruise Tourism Visa will be a multiple-entry option for tourists arriving on cruise ships or leisure boats, subject to an approved itinerary and a licensed host company.
Expanded residency options
A Humanitarian Residency Permit will be available for individuals from countries affected by war, disasters, or unrest. It will be valid for one year, with the option of extension. Foreign widows or divorcees will be able to apply for residency within six months of the death or divorce of their spouse, subject to certain conditions. Residents will also be allowed to sponsor relatives and friends up to the third degree, depending on their income level.
Business and labour visas
The Business Exploration Visa will require applicants to provide proof of financial solvency, ownership of a stake in a foreign company, or evidence of professional practice. A new Truck Drivers’ Visa will permit foreign lorry drivers to apply for single or multiple trips, provided the sponsor is a licensed transport or freight company and offers health insurance and financial guarantees.
These updates underline the UAE’s commitment to building an inclusive and competitive environment for professionals, families, and businesses. Authorities have advised applicants to check official UAE portals or consult licensed immigration experts for detailed eligibility and application processes.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News LinkedIn Account | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Facebook | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Youtube | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Twitter |The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Whatsapp Channel | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Instagram
About us:
The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News is a premier platform dedicated to delivering latest news, updates, and insights from the tech industry. With its strong foundation of intellectual property and thought leadership, the platform is well-positioned to stay ahead of the curve and lead conversations about how technology shapes our world. From its early days as CIO News to its rebranding as The Mainstream on November 28, 2024, it has been expanding its global reach, targeting key markets in the Middle East & Africa, ASEAN, the USA, and the UK. The Mainstream is a vision to put technology at the center of every conversation, inspiring professionals and organizations to embrace the future of tech.
