The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced major changes to its visa and residency regulations starting Monday, as part of its strategy to boost global engagement and attract talent, professionals, and entrepreneurs — particularly in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI), entertainment, and tourism.

According to a report in Dubai-based Khaleej Times, UAE authorities have introduced four new visit visa categories, each with specific durations and conditions for extension.

Visa for artificial intelligence experts

This visa may allow single or multiple entries and is issued for a specific period. Applicants must be sponsored by an entity with expertise in the technology sector.

Leisure visit visa

Issued to foreigners visiting the UAE temporarily for recreational purposes.

Event visit visa

It is meant for foreigners attending festivals, exhibitions, conferences, seminars, or other economic, cultural, sports, religious, community, or educational events.

A government or private institution must sponsor the applicant, providing an official letter with event details and duration.

Tourist visit visa

Offered with multiple entries for tourists arriving via cruise ships or luxury yachts, provided the itinerary includes stopovers in the UAE. Sponsorship must come from a licensed tourism operator.

Humanitarian residency permit

A one-year humanitarian residence permit will be granted to citizens from countries affected by wars, disasters, or unrest.

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) can issue this permit without requiring a sponsor.

If the beneficiary leaves the UAE, the permit becomes invalid.

Residency for widows and divorced women

A one-year residency permit will be available for foreign widows or divorced women.

If the husband is Emirati and there are no children, a one-year permit can be issued within six months.

If the husband is a foreign national and the woman is the guardian of her children, the same conditions apply.

Proof of financial stability and suitable housing is required.

Sponsorship for relatives and friends

Residents can now sponsor relatives and friends based on income thresholds.

Immediate family: Minimum monthly salary of AED 4,000, Second/third-degree relatives: AED 8,000, Friends: AED 15,000

Business exploration visa

Applicants must either have financial resources or be actively involved in business-related activities in their home country or through a registered company.

Visa for truck drivers

Truck drivers can apply for single or multiple-entry visas. Sponsorship must come from a licensed freight or transport company. Financial guarantees and health insurance are mandatory.

These new visa and residency reforms align with the UAE’s efforts to strengthen its position as a global hub for economy, technology, and tourism.