The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is shaking up its visa system. Starting August 10, 2025, the UAE will introduce four new visa types, tighten financial requirements for business explorers, adjust income rules for visiting friends or family, and extend residency rights to certain foreign widows and divorcees.
If you’re planning to work, invest, or reunite with family in the UAE, these updates could directly affect your eligibility and application process.
1. New UAE Visa Categories
The UAE is launching four new visa types aimed at attracting talent, tourists, and investors in emerging sectors:
AI Professionals Visa
- Who it’s for: Foreign professionals in artificial intelligence.
- Type: Multiple-entry.
- Stay duration: 60 or 90 days, extendable up to 120 or 180 days.
Event Visa
- Who it’s for: Visitors attending cultural, educational, religious, sports, or business events.
- Stay duration: 30 or 60 days, extendable up to 180 days.
Commercial Gaming Activities Visa
- Who it’s for: Individuals involved in commercial gaming activities (definition still unclear).
- Type: 30-day visa, renewable once.
Cruise Ship Tourist Visa
- Who it’s for: Tourists arriving via cruise ships or leisure boats.
- Type: 30-day multiple-entry, with a 30-day extension option.
2. Stricter Rules for Visas to Explore Business Opportunities
Previously, skilled individuals could enter the UAE on this visa without proving financial capacity. That’s changing. But now,
- All applicants must now prove financial solvency—even if they have top qualifications.
- Evidence can include bank statements, company financials, or investment records.
Impact:
This move raises the bar for entry and may sideline early-stage entrepreneurs with limited funds.
3. Updated Entry Visa Rules for Visiting Friends or Relatives
The UAE is making it easier for more people to sponsor visits, but with new income thresholds.
Key Changes:
| Relationship | Minimum Monthly Income Required |
|---|---|
| First-degree relatives | AED 4,000 |
| Second/third-degree relatives | AED 8,000 |
| Friends | AED 15,000 |
- Expanded Sponsor Eligibility: Sponsors no longer need to meet specific professional levels under the Ministry of Human Resources.
- Broader Reach: Third-degree relatives are now included—previously, only first- and second-degree relationships were considered.
Impact:
- More expats, including those in lower-income or mid-skilled jobs, can now invite loved ones.
- However, the income barrier might limit access for some who previously qualified under older rules.
4. Residency Rights Extended to Foreign Widows and Divorcees
Foreign women who were married to UAE nationals but have no children will now be allowed to apply for a residence permit—a right previously restricted to those with children.
- Time Limit: Applications must be submitted within six months of the husband’s death or divorce.
- Why this matters: Offers more stability to widowed or divorced foreign nationals navigating life in the UAE.
5. Other Notable Changes
Here are a few additional updates worth noting:
Residence Permits for Foreign Widows and Divorcees: Foreign widows or divorcees of UAE nationals without children can now apply for a residence permit within six months of their spouse’s death or divorce, a significant expansion from previous rules limited to those with children.
Income Thresholds for Dependents: Specific income requirements will apply to sponsors supporting six or more dependents.
Travel Restrictions: The UAE will restrict travel flexibility and remove sponsor requirements for nationals from countries affected by wars, disasters, or unrest.
Clarified Truck Drivers Visa: The Truck Drivers Entry Visa can now be issued for single or multiple entries, with updated conditions for eligibility.
What This Means for Travellers and Expats
These sweeping changes reflect the UAE’s evolving priorities: attracting global talent, expanding tourism, and ensuring financial stability in visa approvals.
If you’re an entrepreneur, AI expert, cruise traveller, or someone looking to bring family to the UAE, it’s essential to review these updated requirements before applying.
Final Thoughts
The UAE’s new visa rules are a mixed bag, offering fresh opportunities while tightening access in other areas. Whether you’re planning a short trip, scouting for investment, or reuniting with family, understanding these changes is key to a smoother entry process.