4 New UAE Visit Visas Announced – Full Details and Rule Updates 2025
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a major update to its visa system, unveiling four new visit visa categories along with significant amendments to several existing visa types. The announcement was made on September 29, 2025, by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP).
These reforms are designed to make the UAE more accessible for global professionals, strengthen family ties, and enhance regulations for visitors and residents alike.
🔹 Introduction of 4 New UAE Visit Visas
The new visit visa categories will cater to specialists in key sectors:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) Specialists
- Targeted at researchers, developers, and innovators in AI.
- Aligned with the UAE’s commitment to becoming a global leader in advanced technologies.
- Entertainment Industry Professionals
- Designed for performers, artists, and creative professionals.
- Supports Dubai’s fast-growing cultural and entertainment scene.
- Event Sector Visitors
- For organizers, speakers, and participants in international exhibitions, trade shows, and conferences.
- Aims to strengthen the UAE’s role as a global hub for events.
- Cruise Ship & Leisure Boat Travelers
- Facilitates smoother entry for tourists arriving by sea.
- Encourages growth in the UAE’s maritime and coastal tourism sector.
The full eligibility requirements and application process for these visas will be announced by the ICP shortly.
🔹 Key Amendments to Existing UAE Visa Rules
The ICP has also introduced important updates to current visa types:
1. Humanitarian Residence Permit
- Issued for 1 year, with the possibility of renewal under special conditions.
2. Visit Visa for Friends & Relatives
- Sponsors can now invite friends or relatives up to the third degree of relation.
- Approval depends on the sponsor’s income level.
3. Residence Permit for Widows & Divorcees
- Foreign widows or divorcees can apply for a 1-year residence permit, renewable for another year if they meet the required conditions.
4. Business Exploration Visa
- Applicants must now show:
- Proof of financial solvency.
- Evidence of ownership or shares in a company outside the UAE.
- Or valid proof of professional practice in their field.
5. Truck Driver Visa
- Now requires the presence of a sponsor.
- Applicants must provide health and financial guarantees.
🔹 General Rule Applicable to All Visas
A new regulation has been introduced requiring all UAE visa types to include:
- A defined schedule of the authorised stay period.
- Clear conditions for extension.
This change ensures transparency for applicants and better monitoring of permitted stays.
✅ Why This Matters
- Professionals – AI, entertainment, and events experts now have tailored visas.
- Families – Easier sponsorship of relatives and friends up to third degree.
- Women – Special support for widows and divorcees with renewable permits.
- Business Investors – Clearer financial proof required for exploration visas.
- Tourists & Travelers – Cruise and leisure visitors benefit from smoother entry options.
📌 Final Word
The UAE continues to adapt its immigration policies to attract talent, promote tourism, and safeguard residents’ rights. While the new categories have been announced, detailed requirements, validity periods, and application procedures will be published soon by the ICP.
For the most up-to-date guidance and professional visa assistance, visit DubaiVisa.com – your trusted partner for UAE visa services.
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