UAE Rolls Out 7 Key Visa Updates: New Visas, Residency & Entry Rules

On September 29, 2025, the UAE unveiled major updates to its visa system, introducing new visas and residency options to attract global talent, boost tourism, and support humanitarian cases.

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has introduced four new entry visas and expanded rules for residency, family reunification, and work-related permits.

1. Four New Specialised Visas Introduced

The UAE is targeting fast-growing industries with four fresh visa categories that make entry and work easier for specialists and workers.

AI Specialist Visa

This visa targets AI professionals sponsored by licensed UAE tech companies. It allows single or multiple entries, supporting the country’s goal to become a global hub for AI research and innovation.

Cruise Tourism Visa

The UAE now offers a multiple-entry visa for cruise passengers and staff. It simplifies entry for tourists and workers, strengthening the maritime tourism sector and boosting cruise-related economic activity.

Event Visa

Organisers can sponsor participants for economic, cultural, sports, or educational events via a streamlined event visa. This facilitates attendance at exhibitions, conferences, and festivals across the UAE.

Entertainment Visa

This visa covers individuals in digital gaming, esports, and commercial entertainment, sponsored by licensed entities, reflecting the UAE’s growing focus on its entertainment and gaming industries.

2. Humanitarian Residency Permits

Apart from introducing four new visa categories, the UAE also unveiled new residency permit options, including a one-year renewable humanitarian residence permit, now available to foreigners from countries affected by wars, natural disasters, or unrest.

Unlike other visas, it does not require a guarantor or host. However, authorities may extend or cancel the permit based on individual circumstances, and it becomes void if the holder leaves the UAE.

It is worth noting that it can be issued without the need for a guarantor or host.

3. Residency Options for Widows and Divorcees

Another residency permit option is for widows and divorcees, allowing them to remain in the UAE under certain conditions:

• Widows or divorcees of Emirati nationals can apply for a one-year renewable residence permit if they apply within six months of the spouse’s death or divorce.
• Widows or divorcees of expatriates can also apply if they were UAE residents at the time, were previously under their husband’s sponsorship, and currently have legal custody of their children.

Applicants must meet requirements for housing and financial stability. If custody is contested, a designated committee will make the decision.

4. Visa for Relatives and Friends

Another big update is that the UAE authorities have made family reunification more flexible, allowing residents to sponsor relatives up to the third degree of kinship and friends for short-term visit visas. Sponsorship now depends on the resident’s monthly salary.

• First-degree relatives: minimum AED 4,000/month
• Second- and third-degree relatives: minimum AED 8,000/month
• Friends: minimum AED 15,000/month

5. Business Exploration Visa

Applicants for the updated Business Exploration Visa must now show proof of financial solvency linked to their planned activity, or evidence of an existing business either abroad or through a registered UAE entity.

6. Truck Drivers’ Visa

Truck drivers employed by licensed logistics companies can now apply for single or multiple-entry visas. Requirements include financial guarantees, valid health insurance, and applicable fees.

7. Clear Visa Schedules

Authorities have also published clear schedules outlining the authorised duration of stay for each visa type. These updates specify the conditions under which extensions may be granted, offering more transparency and predictability for travellers and residents alike.

How to Apply

Application requirements vary by visa type, but generally include:

• Sponsorship by a licensed UAE entity
• Proof of financial solvency or relevant documents such as marriage, divorce, or death certificates
• Health and security clearances

Applicants should apply through official UAE government portals or consult licensed immigration consultants for category-specific requirements.

What This Means for Travellers and Residents

The UAE’s visa revamp reflects a broader strategy to expand its role as a hub for innovation, tourism, and humanitarian support. Whether you are an AI professional, a cruise worker, an entrepreneur, or a family member looking to reunite with loved ones, these new pathways provide more flexibility and opportunities than before.