UAE Introduces Major Changes to Visa Rules

The United Arab Emirates has announced major changes to visa rules, introducing several new visa types to support professionals, tourists, and residents.

Among the most notable updates is a new special visa for artificial intelligence experts. This move highlights the UAE’s push to attract global talent in advanced technologies.

Additionally, a new event visa will allow entry for those attending festivals, exhibitions, conferences, or sports events held in the country.

Tourists arriving through cruise or recreational ships will now benefit from a multiple-entry visa.

This aims to boost tourism by making it easier for travelers to explore the UAE.

In another humanitarian step, the UAE will now offer a one-year residency permit to individuals affected by war or natural disasters, even without a sponsor.

This change reflects the country’s growing focus on compassion and global responsibility.

Widows and divorced women can now obtain residency without needing a sponsor, offering them greater independence and security.

The new rules also set a minimum income requirement for sponsoring relatives or friends on visit visas.

To sponsor a friend, for example, a monthly income of at least 15,000 dirhams is now required. These rules aim to balance flexibility with financial accountability.

For entrepreneurs, the business visa will now be issued based on financial proof or ownership of a foreign company.

This change is expected to attract international investors and startup founders.

In the transport sector, only licensed transport companies can now sponsor foreign drivers, ensuring better regulation and oversight.

These updates show the UAE’s intent to modernize and regulate its immigration system more effectively.

Overall, the UAE introduces major changes to visa rules to meet new global needs and economic goals.

With a mix of skilled-worker visas, humanitarian permits, and tourism-friendly options, the UAE is positioning itself as a more open and innovative destination.

These changes reflect both flexibility and control, shaping a future-ready immigration system.