UAE Launches Four New Visit Visa Categories

The UAE has launched a major overhaul of its visa system, introducing four new visit visa categories that are designed to bolster its positions in technology, tourism, and entertainment. 

These visas include special permits for AI specialists, entertainment professionals, event participants, and maritime tourism via cruise or leisure vessels. 

Under the new framework, the AI specialists visa allows single or multiple entries for foreign experts in artificial intelligence, provided they have sponsorship from a licensed tech entity. The entertainment visa targets individuals engaged in commercial entertainment or performance activities temporarily.

Meanwhile, the event visa applies to those attending exhibitions, conferences, festivals, cultural or sports events, with required backing from event organizers. Finally, the maritime tourism visa supports visitors arriving via cruise ships or leisure boats, granting multiple entries if itineraries include UAE ports and the host entity is licensed. 

In tandem with these new visas, the Humanitarian Residence Permit has been expanded. Now, individuals from countries affected by war, conflict, or natural disasters can obtain a one-year permit without needing a sponsor or guarantor. This permit remains valid so long as holders remain in the UAE, though leaving the country voids it. 

Significant changes were also introduced for other visa and residency types. Widows and divorcees can now apply for residence without a sponsor for one year (renewable), provided applications are submitted within six months of death or divorce and certain conditions are met.  

The revised rules also affect family sponsorship: hosts must meet income thresholds to sponsor visits by relatives or friends. For example, to bring in a first-degree relative, the sponsor must earn at least AED 4,000/month, while sponsoring a friend requires AED 15,000/month. 

The Business Exploration Visa has been overhauled as well: applicants must now demonstrate financial solvency aligned with their intended business, or show they already operate a similar venture abroad. 

Meanwhile, truck drivers involved in logistics can now apply for single or multiple-entry visit visas, sponsored by a freight company, and must fulfil financial guarantees and health insurance requirements. 

These reforms reflect the UAE’s ambition to become a more open, dynamic global hub — one that attracts talent, supports tourism, fosters innovation, and offers humanitarian pathways to those in crisis.