UAE Introduces Four New Visit Visa Categories. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced four new visit visa categories as part of its strategy to attract skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and global visitors in sectors such as technology, artificial intelligence (AI), entertainment, and tourism.
According to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP), these updates align with the UAE’s long-term goal of becoming a global business and innovation hub while improving quality of life and expanding opportunities for international talent.
Overview of the New UAE Visit Visa Categories
| Visa Category | Purpose | Sponsor Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| AI Specialist Visa | For experts in Artificial Intelligence and technology | Sponsor’s letter from a recognized tech institution |
| Entertainment Visa | For visitors involved in short-term entertainment activities | Event or production sponsor |
| Event Visa | For conferences, exhibitions, and festivals | Host entity’s official documentation |
| Cruise & Pleasure Boat Visa | For tourists arriving via cruise or yachts | Licensed tourism operator as guarantor |
These new visas are part of the UAE’s ongoing visa system reforms that aim to support the nation’s tourism, business, and transport sectors
1. Entry Visa for Artificial Intelligence Specialists
The UAE now offers a special entry visa for professionals and experts working in Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics, and related fields.
Key Features:
- Available for single or multiple trips.
- Requires a sponsor’s letter from a recognized technology or research institution.
- Designed to attract tech innovators and AI experts to participate in projects, research, and innovation initiatives.
This move highlights the UAE’s vision to become a global leader in AI and digital transformation, in line with its Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031.
2. Entertainment Visa – For Artists and Performers
The Entertainment Visa allows foreigners to visit the UAE for short-term cultural or entertainment events, such as:
- Film shoots or performances
- Cultural festivals
- Stage plays or musical events
- Temporary art exhibitions
Key Points:
- Usually short-term and non-renewable.
- Requires a registered entertainment company or sponsor.
- Must include event documentation or invitation letters.
This visa aims to strengthen the UAE’s entertainment and cultural sectors, attracting more creative professionals and global talent.
3. Event Visa – For Conferences and Festivals
The Event Visa is a major development in the UAE’s tourism and business event industry. It allows entry for:
- Exhibitions
- Business conferences
- Religious or cultural festivals
- Sporting events
Requirements:
- A host entity such as an event organizer or company must sponsor the applicant.
- Applicants must provide official event documentation and proof of invitation.
- Available for single or multiple entries, depending on event duration.
The Event Visa strengthens the UAE’s role as a regional hub for global conferences and expos, complementing Dubai’s Expo legacy and Abu Dhabi’s growing MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector.
4. Cruise and Pleasure Boat Visa
The UAE’s tourism sector has expanded rapidly, especially in marine and cruise tourism. The new Cruise & Pleasure Boat Visa caters to international travelers arriving through:
- Cruise ships
- Yachts or pleasure boats
Highlights:
- Multiple-entry permit during the journey.
- Requires a licensed tourism operator as a guarantor.
- Must include a detailed itinerary of travel and port stops.
This visa supports Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s growing reputation as leading cruise destinations in the Middle East.
Other Updated Visa Categories
In addition to the four new visit visa types, the UAE also announced important updates to existing categories, including truck driver visas, business exploration visas, and humanitarian case visas.
UAE Work Visa for Truck Drivers
The UAE has introduced single and multiple-entry visas for foreign truck drivers.
Conditions:
- Must be sponsored by a licensed shipping or transport company.
- Applicant must submit:
- Financial guarantee
- Health insurance
- Visa fees payment proof
This update aims to facilitate logistics and trade operations, supporting the UAE’s key transport sector.
Visiting Friends or Relatives in the UAE
The UAE has revised its rules for visiting relatives and friends, introducing income-based sponsorship criteria for residents.
| Relationship Type | Minimum Monthly Income (AED) |
|---|---|
| First-degree relatives (parents, siblings) | 4,000 |
| Second or third-degree relatives | 8,000 |
| Friends | 15,000 |
Residents meeting these income levels can sponsor family or friends for short-term visit visas, ensuring that sponsors have financial capability to host visitors.
Business Exploration Visa – Updated Conditions
The Business Exploration Visa has been refined to make it easier for entrepreneurs and investors to evaluate opportunities in the UAE.
New Conditions:
- Applicants must show financial solvency relevant to their business activity.
- They must prove existing business operations abroad or professional experience in the proposed field.
- The visa supports individuals exploring company registration, investment, or partnership opportunities.
This aligns with the UAE’s goal of becoming a global business incubator and investment-friendly destination.
Humanitarian Case Visas
For foreigners from countries affected by wars, disasters, or political unrest, the UAE has introduced a one-year humanitarian visa.
Key Details:
- Valid for one year, renewable under special conditions.
- No guarantor or host required.
- Issued on recommendation from the General Directorate of Identity and Foreign Affairs.
- Visa becomes invalid upon leaving the UAE.
This humanitarian approach reflects the UAE’s commitment to global compassion and human rights.
Residence for Widows and Divorcees
Under the new humanitarian rules, foreign widows and divorcees of Emirati citizens can stay in the UAE without a sponsor.
| Condition | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Without Children | May obtain residency within 6 months of husband’s death or divorce |
| With Children | Can apply within 6 months if she is the legal custodian |
| Financial Solvency | Must have sufficient income and suitable housing |
| Extension | Residency may be extended for another similar period upon valid justification |
This update ensures stability and security for women and children during difficult personal circumstances.
Purpose Behind the New Visa System
According to Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director General of ICP:
“The changes were based on careful studies and forward-looking assessments that reviewed residency and foreign affairs trends locally and internationally.”
He explained that the reforms are designed to:
- Enhance the quality of life in the UAE.
- Support trade, tourism, and transport sectors.
- Strengthen the UAE’s global competitiveness.
- Address humanitarian and economic needs of expatriates.
Why These Changes Matter
The UAE’s new visit visa categories make it easier for global talent to connect with the country’s fast-growing sectors — from AI and business innovation to entertainment and tourism.
These updates will:
- Boost international collaboration.
- Simplify short-term entry for professionals.
- Increase tourism and economic activity.
- Provide flexibility and inclusivity for families, workers, and investors.
Conclusion
The UAE’s introduction of four new visit visa categories marks a major step forward in its mission to become a global hub for innovation, creativity, and opportunity.
From AI specialists to entertainers and cruise travelers, the new system creates diverse pathways for visitors to contribute to the UAE’s economy and culture. Combined with updates for humanitarian cases, business exploration, and family sponsorships, the country continues to lead the region in smart immigration reforms that balance growth with compassion.
FAQs About new visit visa categories
1. What are the four new UAE visit visa categories?
They include visas for AI specialists, entertainment professionals, event participants, and cruise or pleasure boat tourists.
2. Can a visitor work in the UAE on these visas?
No. These are visit visas, not work permits. Visitors must apply for a work visa to be employed legally.
3. How long are these visas valid?
Duration depends on the type — most are short-term (30–90 days), while some multiple-entry options may last longer.
4. Who can apply for the AI Specialist Visa?
Professionals in AI, robotics, or tech innovation with a sponsor’s letter from an approved institution.
5. What income is required to sponsor a friend or family member?
AED 4,000 for first-degree relatives, AED 8,000 for extended relatives, and AED 15,000 for friends.
