The UAE has rolled out major updates to its entry visa system, introducing new categories and revised conditions for residents who wish to sponsor friends and relatives. The changes, announced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), are aimed at making the process more structured while supporting the country’s long-term vision as a global hub for tourism, talent, and innovation.
New Visit Visa Categories
As part of the reforms, four fresh visit visa categories have been introduced:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) Visa – For AI professionals and specialists, designed to support the UAE’s growth in advanced technology.
- Entertainment Visa – For those visiting the country for performances, shows, or media-related engagements.
- Event Visa – Tailored for attendees of conferences, exhibitions, and cultural festivals.
- Cruise and Leisure Boat Visa – A multiple-entry option for visitors arriving on licensed cruises or leisure vessels.
These categories reflect the UAE’s strategy to strengthen niche industries while providing flexibility for visitors linked to professional and cultural events.
Sponsorship Rules for Friends and Relatives
Dubai and UAE residents can now invite friends and relatives under new sponsorship conditions. The ICP has set salary-based eligibility criteria to ensure financial stability for hosts:
- Immediate family members – Minimum monthly salary of AED 4,000.
- Second- and third-degree relatives – Minimum monthly salary of AED 8,000.
- Friends – Minimum monthly salary of AED 15,000.
This structured approach ensures that sponsors are financially prepared to support visitors during their stay.
Additional Visa Reforms and Requirements
The ICP has also introduced several other adjustments to streamline entry and residency processes:
- Humanitarian Residence Permit – Available for foreign widows or divorcees with children, allowing them to legally reside in the UAE under defined conditions.
- Business Exploration Visa – Applicants seeking to explore business opportunities must demonstrate financial solvency or active professional engagement in the intended sector.
- Truck Driver Visa – Foreign truck drivers can obtain this visa if sponsored by licensed freight companies and meet health and financial requirements.
- Mandatory Passport Cover Submission – All visa applicants must now submit a copy of their passport’s outer cover page alongside standard documentation to ensure smooth verification and processing.
These measures aim to make visa approvals more efficient while ensuring the integrity of sponsorship and entry requirements.
Awareness among residents
Residents planning to host friends or relatives should familiarise themselves with the updated rules. Understanding the income thresholds and new visa categories will help avoid delays and ensure compliance with ICP regulations. The changes also offer new opportunities for professionals, entertainers, and business visitors to enter the UAE under structured and transparent procedures.
Important Takeaways
- Four new visit visa categories: AI, entertainment, event, and cruise/leisure boat.
- Updated sponsorship income thresholds to ensure the financial preparedness of hosts.
- Additional reforms include humanitarian residence permits, business exploration visas, truck driver visas, and mandatory passport cover submission.
By keeping up with these updates, UAE residents can effectively plan visits for friends, relatives, and business contacts while staying aligned with local regulations.
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