UAE unveils new visa categories & entry permit reforms to boost innovation, tourism, and humanitarian support
In a major shake-up of its immigration framework, the UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has announced sweeping changes to visa and entry permit rules. The reforms, unveiled on September 29, 2025, aim to reinforce the UAE’s openness, attract global talent, support the tourism and entertainment sectors, and build humanitarian pathways.
What’s new: four new visit visa categories
One of the most noticeable changes is the introduction of four new visit visa categories targeting specific sectors:
- AI specialists – this visa (single or multi-entry) is meant for professionals in artificial intelligence. Applicants will need to present a sponsorship or hosting letter from a recognized AI or technology entity.
- Entertainment – this visa covers individuals involved in performances, gaming, OTT, music, and similar domains, allowing them temporary access for projects or events.
- Events – this visa is designed for those attending or participating in exhibitions, conferences, festivals, cultural or educational events. A host or sponsoring entity must provide details of the event and its duration.
- Cruise and leisure (Tourism) – for tourists arriving via cruise ships or leisure boats, this visa allows multiple entries provided that routes include UAE stops and that a licensed sponsor or host is involved.
Each visa type will have a defined authorized stay period and conditions for extension, which will be clarified in the regulations.
These new visa options are part of the UAE’s strategy to align its immigration policy with its economic and sectoral goals (particularly in technology, entertainment, and tourism).
Beyond visit visas: broader residency and permit reforms
The updates extend well past just visit permits, touching on residency, family sponsorship, and humanitarian cases:
- Humanitarian residence permit: a new one-year renewable permit can be granted to individuals from war-torn, disaster-affected, or unstable countries. No guarantor or local sponsor is required in certain cases, though housing and financial criteria apply.
- Widows and divorcees: foreign widows or divorcees are now eligible for one year of residence (renewable) under specific conditions. If the husband was Emirati, the permit must be sought within six months; if foreign, conditions include child custody and proof of sponsorship at time of death/divorce.
- Sponsorship of relatives and friends: the income requirements for sponsoring visitors have been revised:
- To sponsor immediate family, a resident must have a monthly salary of at least AED 4,000
- For second- or third-degree relatives, the threshold is AED 8,000
- To sponsor a friend, the sponsoring resident must have a minimum salary of AED 15,000
- Business exploration visa: individuals seeking to explore business opportunities in the UAE can apply, provided they meet financial solvency criteria, have business experience, or hold shares in a foreign enterprise.
- Truck driver visa: The conditions for truck drivers have been modified. They can now receive single or multiple entry visas provided they are sponsored by freight or transport companies, meet financial guarantee requirements, and hold valid health insurance.
The UAE’s new visa reforms strengthen its role as a global hub for talent, tourism, and innovation. By opening doors to specialists, entrepreneurs and visitors, the country shows its commitment to inclusivity, growth, and future-ready opportunities.
