In a significant move to bolster the UAE’s position as a global hub for innovation, tourism, and humanitarian support, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) announced several key amendments and additions to entry visa regulations on September 29, 2025. These changes aim to attract specialized professionals, support emerging industries, and provide assistance to individuals facing challenging circumstances.
UAE introduces specialized visas for AI professionals and cruise industry workers
The UAE has introduced specialized visas to attract professionals in high-demand sectors and support tourism-related industries:
AI Specialist Visa : Designed for experts in artificial intelligence, this visa allows single or multiple entries and is sponsored by licensed tech entities. The initiative aligns with the UAE’s goal of becoming a leading hub for AI research, innovation, and implementation.- Cruise Tourism Visa: Targeting passengers and workers in the cruise industry, this visa supports the growing maritime tourism sector. Multiple-entry permits facilitate smooth travel for cruise ship staff and visitors arriving via cruises, boosting tourism and hospitality revenue.
- Event Visa: For participants attending economic, cultural, educational, or sports-related events, sponsored by event organizers. This visa simplifies entry for professionals and enthusiasts attending conferences, exhibitions, and festivals.
- Entertainment Visa: Designed for individuals participating in commercial gaming or entertainment activities, sponsored by licensed entities in the UAE. This visa supports the UAE’s growing entertainment and digital gaming ecosystem.
These initiatives aim to attract global talent, drive innovation, and strengthen the UAE’s position in tourism, technology, and entertainment.
Updated visa rules for families, professionals, and humanitarian cases
Besides introducing four new visa categories, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has implemented broad amendments to the UAE’s residency and entry visa regulations. These changes cover a range of areas including humanitarian residence permits, expanded residency options for widows and divorcees, new sponsorship rules for relatives and friends, updated business exploration visas, and revised regulations for truck drivers’ visas—aimed at enhancing flexibility, support, and economic growth.
Humanitarian Residency Permit
The humanitarian residence permit is valid for one year, with the option of renewal. This permit supports foreigners from countries affected by war, disasters, or unrest and can be granted without the need for a guarantor or host. Residency may be extended or canceled based on reports by the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs and becomes void if the holder leaves the UAE.Additionally, according to Khaleej Times, the Director General of Identity and Foreigners Affairs is authorized to waive certain requirements, such as financial solvency or kinship degree, for humanitarian sponsorship cases involving relatives or in-laws, while ensuring compliance with existing regulations. This flexibility aims to provide protection and stability to vulnerable individuals during critical times.
Residency for Widows and Divorcees
Further amendments focus on supporting vulnerable women and families, particularly widows and divorcees. The updated regulations now allow for:
- Foreign widows or divorcees of Emirati nationals to apply for a one-year renewable residence permit, provided the application is made within six months of the death or divorce.
- Foreign widows or divorcees of expatriates to apply under similar conditions, granted they were residing in the UAE at the time, were previously sponsored by their husband, and currently hold legal custody of any children they wish to sponsor.
In all cases, requirements for financial stability and adequate housing must be met. Where custody is disputed, the matter will be resolved by a designated committee.
Visa for Relatives and Friends
The revised framework also facilitates short-term visit visas for friends and relatives up to the third degree of kinship. Sponsorship is now permitted based on the resident’s monthly income. According to Khaleej Times, the thresholds are as follows:
- First-degree relatives: minimum salary of AED 4,000/month
- Second- and third-degree relatives: minimum salary of AED 8,000/month
- Friends: minimum salary of AED 15,000/month
These provisions aim to balance flexibility in family reunification with economic considerations.
Business Exploration Visa
Updates to the Business Exploration Visa now require applicants to demonstrate financial solvency appropriate to their intended business activity. Alternatively, applicants must prove they are currently involved in the same business either abroad or through a registered UAE entity. Lastly, regulations for truck drivers’ visas have been streamlined. Drivers may now apply for single or multiple-entry visas, sponsored by a licensed freight or logistics company. Conditions include fulfilling financial guarantees, health insurance coverage, and payment of applicable fees.
How to apply: Requirements and guidelines
Applicants for these new visa categories must generally:
- Secure sponsorship by a licensed UAE entity relevant to the visa category.
- Provide official documentation, such as marriage certificates, divorce or death certificates, and proof of financial solvency.
- Pass health and security clearances, ensuring compliance with UAE regulations.
Requirements vary depending on the visa category and individual circumstances, and applicants are advised to consult official UAE portals or licensed immigration consultants.The UAE’s new visa system is a strategic, multi-pronged initiative designed to attract talent, support families, and expand its economic and tourism sectors. Whether you are a professional in AI, a cruise worker, or a widow/divorcee seeking residency, the UAE now offers flexible, targeted visa options to support your goals.
