Four new travel visa categories were announced by the UAE on Monday, and they are available to experts in artificial intelligence, entertainment, events, cruise ships, and luxury yachts.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) announced several significant changes and additions to entrance visa restrictions, including this one.
The updated laws are designed to "reinforce the UAE’s approach of openness to the world and its efforts to attract talent, expertise, and entrepreneurs in the fields of technology—particularly artificial intelligence—as well as entertainment and tourism."
New visit visas:
AI Specialists – single/multiple entry; requires host letter from tech entity.
Entertainment – for foreigners visiting temporarily for entertainment purposes.
Events – for festivals, conferences, exhibitions; needs host entity approval and event details.
Tourism – multiple-entry via cruise ships/leisure boats with licensed facility as host.
Humanitarian residence permit: Valid 1 year, extendable; for foreigners from conflict/disaster zones or for relatives under humanitarian cases, with possible exemptions.
Widows/Divorcees: 1-year renewable permit; must apply within 6 months of death/divorce, conditions vary depending on husband’s nationality and custody status.
Relatives/Friends sponsorship: Salary requirements – Dh4,000 (immediate family), Dh8,000 (2nd/3rd-degree relatives), Dh15,000 (friends).
Business Exploration Visa: Requires proof of solvency or existing business activity.
Truck Drivers Visa: Single/multiple entry; host must be a freight/goods transport company; health insurance required.
