The UAE has introduced major updates to its entry and residency regulations. These changes aim to attract talent, boost tourism, and support families and humanitarian cases. Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s new.

Four New Visit Visas.

AI Specialists: For experts in Artificial Intelligence, with a letter from a tech host or company.
Entertainment: For performers and entertainers visiting for a short period.
Events: For festivals, conferences, exhibitions, sports, cultural, and community events. Requires a host entity.
Tourism: For cruise ship and yacht visitors, with a licensed facility as host.

Humanitarian Residence Permit.

A new one-year renewable permit for people from countries affected by wars, disasters, or unrest. No host or guarantor is required.

Widows and Divorcees.

Foreign widows and divorcees can now get a one-year renewable residency. Conditions vary depending on whether the husband was Emirati or foreign.

Sponsoring Relatives and Friends.

To bring relatives or friends to the UAE, income requirements now apply:

• Dh4,000 monthly salary to sponsor immediate family

• Dh8,000 to sponsor extended relatives

• Dh15,000 to sponsor friends

Business Exploration Visa.

Applicants must now prove financial solvency, either by showing they practice the activity abroad or by having an existing company.

Truck Drivers’ Visa.

Truck drivers can now apply for single or multiple entry visas, with a freight company as sponsor.