UAE Launches Four New Visit Visa Categories in 2025

Last updated on Tuesday, 30/09/2025 at 08:08 PM IST

The UAE new visit visa categories 2025 announcement marks a significant milestone in the country’s immigration policy, introducing specialized pathways for global talent and boosting key economic sectors. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) unveiled these changes on September 29, 2025, targeting technology professionals, entertainment industry workers, event attendees, and cruise tourists.

New AI Specialist Visa UAE Attracts Tech Talent

The AI specialist visa UAE represents the most strategic addition among the new categories, offering single or multiple-entry permits for artificial intelligence professionals. This visa requires a sponsorship letter from a UAE-based technology facility and allows stays of 60 to 90 days, with possible extensions up to 120 or 180 days respectively. The timing coincides with the recent H1B visa fee increases to $100,000 under Trump’s 2025 policy, positioning the UAE as an attractive alternative for tech talent seeking opportunities outside the United States.

Entertainment Visa UAE Opens Cultural Opportunities

The entertainment visa UAE grants temporary access for foreigners engaging in entertainment-related activities, strengthening the country’s position as a global cultural destination. This category includes commercial gaming activities and requires partnership with a UAE-licensed host entity. The visa typically allows 30-day stays with possible renewal for another 30 days.

Events Visa UAE Facilitates Business and Cultural Exchange

The events visa UAE enables visitors to attend festivals, exhibitions, conferences, seminars, and various cultural, sports, religious, or educational activities. Applicants must provide a detailed letter from their sponsor explaining the event and intended duration of stay. The visa offers 30 or 60-day stays with possible extensions up to 120 or 180 days.

Tourism Visa Cruise Ships Boosts Marine Tourism

The tourism visa cruise ships category introduces a 30-day multiple-entry visa for tourists arriving via cruise ships, luxury yachts, or leisure boats. This visa requires the UAE to be a scheduled stop and the sponsor must hold proper licensing for tourism activities. The visa can be extended for an additional 30 days.

Updated UAE Visa Requirements 2025 Include Financial Changes

Alongside the new categories, the UAE visa requirements 2025 include revised financial obligations for sponsors. Sponsoring first-degree relatives now requires a minimum monthly income of 4,000 dirhams, while second and third-degree relatives need sponsors earning 8,000 dirhams monthly. Friends of residents must have sponsors earning at least 15,000 dirhams per month.

Strategic Vision Behind UAE Visit Visa Updates

These UAE visit visa updates align with the country’s broader vision to become a global hub for innovation, culture, and tourism while supporting economic growth. The ICP emphasized that these changes enhance the UAE’s global competitiveness and reinforce its openness to attract talent, expertise, and entrepreneurs.

Conclusion

The UAE new visit visa categories 2025 represent a strategic move to attract global talent across technology, entertainment, and tourism sectors while maintaining the country’s position as a leading international destination. These specialized pathways demonstrate the UAE’s commitment to innovation and economic diversification through targeted immigration policies.

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