DUBAI: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has rolled out major visa reforms, introducing new categories for artificial intelligence (AI) specialists, tourists, and event visitors, while also extending humanitarian support to refugees and widows without the need for sponsors.
The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) unveiled four new entry visa types.
AI Specialists: Single or multiple entry permits available, with applications requiring a letter from a recognized technology entity.
Entertainment: Temporary visas for foreigners participating in entertainment projects.
Events: Issued for attendance at festivals, exhibitions, conferences, and seminars, with host entities required to provide details of the event.
Tourism: Multiple-entry maritime visas for tourists arriving on cruise ships and leisure boats.
Officials noted the move reinforces the UAE’s vision of attracting global expertise and enhancing its role as a hub for technology, tourism, and culture.
Humanitarian residence permits
In a landmark decision, the UAE will grant one-year residence permits to people fleeing wars or natural disasters. These can be extended based on ICP decisions and do not require a guarantor or host.
Residency will be void if the beneficiary leaves the UAE, but exemptions may apply for certain humanitarian cases, including relatives of Emirati citizens or residents.
Support for widows and divorcees
The reforms also extend support to widows and divorced women, who will now be able to obtain one-year residency permits without sponsorship.
If the husband was Emirati: Residency can be issued within six months of death or divorce.
If the husband was a foreigner: Residency may be granted if the widow or divorcee has custody of her children and was sponsored by the late husband.
Renewals will depend on financial solvency, adequate housing, and valid reasons.
New rules for family, friends
Expatriates seeking to sponsor relatives or friends will now need to meet new income thresholds:
AED 4,000/month for first-degree relatives.
AED 8,000/month for second- or third-degree relatives.
AED 15,000/month for sponsoring friends.
Meanwhile, Business Exploration Visas require proof of financial solvency or ownership of an overseas company.
Truck drivers will also benefit from new single or multiple-entry visas. However, they must be sponsored by licensed freight or transport companies, backed by financial guarantees and valid health insurance.
