The United Arab Emirates has introduced four new specialised visit visa types, marking a significant shift in its visa and immigration policy. The reforms aim to attract foreign talent, boost tourism, and aid important economic sectors as part of the UAE’s long-term strategy for diversification and competitiveness.
- The four new UAE visit visa categories
- Application checklists by category
- Additional visa and entry permit reforms
- Application process and timeline
- Strategic goals and impact
- What this means for residents and investors
- How the new visit visas work in practice
- Comparing new visit visas with existing options
- Compliance and good-practice tips
- Sector impact: why these visas matter
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
- CTA: Plan your move with Property Finder
From artificial intelligence specialists to cruise travellers, the new visa policy provides specialised pathways for visitors to engage with the UAE’s society.
The four new UAE visit visa categories
The new visa categories are targeted at professionals, performers, event participants, and tourists. Below is a concise summary table of the types, followed by detailed explanations:
| Visa Category | Target Audience | Key Requirements | Entry Type | |
| 1 | Artificial Intelligence Specialist Visa | AI professionals, researchers, developers | Sponsorship letter from a licensed UAE tech company | Single or multiple entry |
| 2 | Entertainment Visa | Performers, artists, creative professionals | Sponsorship from an entertainment organiser | Temporary stay |
| 3 | Event Visa | Event organisers, speakers, participants | Letter from the hosting organisation | Temporary stay |
| 4 | Cruise Ship & Leisure Boat Visa | Tourists arriving by cruise or leisure boat | Itinerary & sponsorship from licensed operator | Multiple entry |
1- Artificial Intelligence Specialist Visa
The visa is designed for professionals in the fields of AI and emerging technologies. It requires formal sponsorship or an invitation from a UAE-licensed technology company.
Available as both single and multiple-entry visas, it suits short-term projects and frequent collaborations. By attracting AI experts to the UAE, the nation reinforces its ambitions to become the world leader in tech innovation.
2- Entertainment Visa
The Entertainment Visa is designed for performers, artists, and creative professionals participating in temporary entertainment activities, such as concerts, festivals, or film productions.
A recognised entertainment organiser in the UAE must sponsor applicants. This reform supports the growth of Dubai and Abu Dhabi as regional and global entertainment hubs.
3- Event Visa
The Event Visa facilitates entry for individuals attending or participating in conferences, exhibitions, trade shows, and festivals.
Applicants must submit proof from the hosting organisation confirming participation and event details. This category sits perfectly with the UAE as a top destination for international conferences and events, reinforcing its Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) strategy.
4- Cruise Ship & Leisure Boat Visa
The Cruise Ship & Leisure Boat Visa streamlines entry for tourists arriving via cruise ships or private yachts. It requires a valid tourist itinerary and sponsorship from a licensed maritime or leisure operator. With this category, the UAE aims to strengthen naval tourism and attract high-spending international visitors to ports in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Application checklists by category
AI Specialist Visa
• Sponsorship or invitation letter from a UAE-licensed technology company
• Passport valid for at least six months
• Detailed dates, project or engagement plan
• Optional: CV or portfolio highlighting AI capabilities
Entertainment Visa
• Sponsorship letter from a recognised entertainment organiser
• Confirmed venues and dates; role and responsibilities
• Passport validity of at least six months
• Insurance and, if relevant, gear manifests or permits
Event Visa
• Letter from the hosting organisation with event name, dates, and venue
• Registration or participation confirmation (speaker, exhibitor, attendee)
• Passport valid for at least six months
• Information on accommodation for the period of the event
Cruise Ship & Leisure Boat Visa
• Valid cruise or yacht itinerary showing UAE calls
• Sponsorship from a licensed maritime or leisure operator
• Passport valid for at least six months
• Onward travel documents consistent with the itinerary
Additional visa and entry permit reforms
Apart from the four new visa categories, the UAE introduced reforms to existing visas and permits:
- Business Exploration Visa – No longer provides for mere intentions; evidence of financial solvency or active business engagement is a requirement.
- Family Sponsorship – Updated monthly income thresholds: AED 4,000 for first-degree relatives, AED 8,000 for second- and third-degree relatives, AED 15,000 for friends.
- Humanitarian Visas – Extended validity to one year, renewable for individuals from conflict-affected countries.
- Residency for Widows/Divorcees – Allows women to remain in the UAE without a sponsor under defined conditions.
- Custody Cases – Transferred to designated committees to ensure fairness and transparency.
Application process and timeline
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) oversees the new visa categories. Applicants will need to submit sponsorship letters, event invitations, or itineraries, depending on the visa type.
Category-specific eligibility requirements and application procedures are expected to be announced soon. Processing times and fees vary by category and applicant profile. Applicants are advised to monitor official ICP announcements for updates.
Strategic goals and impact
The new visa categories align with the UAE’s Vision 2021 and long-term development plans. By introducing tailored pathways for professionals, artists, and tourists, the UAE aims to diversify its economy and attract high-value visitors.
Reforms will support key sectors, including technology, entertainment, tourism, and events, while also enhancing the quality of life for residents and their families. Ultimately, these changes reinforce the UAE’s position as a global hub for innovation, creativity, and business.
What this means for residents and investors
Launch of new visit visas will also influence property demand in the UAE.
Artificial Intelligence specialists and tech professionals may seek short-term rentals or serviced apartments in innovation hubs like Dubai Internet City and Abu Dhabi’s Al Maryah Island. These visas aim to facilitate the movements of those with the most in-demand jobs in the UAE.
Entertainment visas will attract performers and creatives to areas near Dubai Marina and Downtown, which are known for vibrant lifestyles.
Event visas are expected to increase demand for hotel apartments and rentals near Expo City Dubai, the Dubai World Trade Centre, and Yas Island in Abu Dhabi.
Cruise and leisure boat tourism will drive demand for hospitality in waterfront communities, such as the Palm Jumeirah and Mina Zayed.
Through Property Finder, expats and visitors can explore rental and ownership opportunities in these thriving neighbourhoods.
How the new visit visas work in practice
The four categories are designed for real-world scenarios. Each one maps to a clear use case and a specific set of documents. Here are practical examples to make planning easier.
AI specialist on a short project
A licensed UAE technology company invites an AI researcher to audit a machine‑learning model. The company issues a sponsorship or invitation letter outlining the purpose and dates. The applicant applies for the AI Specialist Visa and chooses either a single-entry visa for a two-week assignment or a multiple-entry visa if project milestones require trips in and out of the country.
Touring artist or production crew
A singer, DJ, or film crew member enters on an Entertainment Visa for a festival, concert series, or film shoot. The UAE organiser provides the sponsorship letter, confirms the venue, and lists dates and roles. The visa covers the temporary stay, which is tied to the performance or production schedule.
Conference speaker or exhibitor
A startup business owner is invited to speak as a guest at a trade show in Dubai. The host sends a formal confirmation with event dates and location. The owner applies for an Event Visa for the duration of the exhibition or conference.
Cruise passenger with multiple Gulf stops
A traveller boards a cruise that calls at Dubai and Abu Dhabi before sailing to other regional ports. Entry is allowed for scheduled stops under the Cruise Ship & Leisure Boat Visa. A licensed cruise line or operator acts as sponsor, and the approved itinerary serves as supporting documentation. Multiple entry allows for reboarding after shore excursions.
AI specialists and tech professionals often opt for short-term rentals or serviced apartments in hubs like Dubai Internet City and Al Maryah Island. Many explore options using DataGuru, which offers personalised property recommendations based on lifestyle and budget.
Comparing new visit visas with existing options
The choice of route is based on the purpose of the visit, the length of stay, and whether a work permit or residency is required.
Learn about UAE Residency Visas here.
Tourist visa vs new visit visas
Tourist visas suit general leisure travel. The new categories are tailored, attaching you to a specific sponsor and activity, such as an AI project, event, entertainment, or cruise itinerary. They are not interchangeable with standard tourist visits when professional participation is involved.
Jobseeker and exploration routes
Jobseeker or business exploration permissions are used for market research or employment searches. The latest reforms focus on financial solvency and legitimate business activity. If you are entering to perform, speak, or deliver a defined project, the new visit categories are a better fit.
Golden Visa and long‑term residency
Golden Visas offer multi‑year residency for investors, exceptional talent, and key professionals. They differ from visit visas, which are temporary and tied to a sponsor or itinerary. If your goal is a long-term residence or family relocation to the UAE, consider exploring Golden or other residency pathways instead.
Learn about the types of residency visas here.
Freelance permits and work authorisation
Freelance permits and labour authorisations enable ongoing paid work in the UAE. Visit visas are not a substitute for a work permit. Use the new visit categories for short, structured engagements where the organiser or company is the sponsor.
Compliance and good‑practice tips
- Match documents to the exact purpose of travel. The event name, dates, venue, and role must align with the information provided in the sponsor letter.
- Check entry type. Select the multiple-entry option if you plan to leave and return during the engagement period.
- Keep copies of your sponsorship letter, itinerary, and accommodation details on your phone and in print.
- Arrange health insurance that covers the whole stay. Some organisers require proof of cover.
- Check permitted stay and renew or exit before expiry. Overstays can result in fines and negatively impact future applications.
- Confirm whether equipment, including cameras, instruments, and exhibition materials, needs a customs declaration.
Sector impact: why these visas matter
Technology ecosystem
The AI Specialist Visa facilitates the transfer of knowledge and the rapid deployment of expert skills. Short assignments and repeat visits enable companies to prototype, audit, and launch AI features more quickly.
Entertainment economy
A straightforward route for performers and crews lowers friction for festivals, tours, and productions. It supports stable event calendars and consistent audience experiences in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
MICE and global events
The Event Visa strengthens the UAE’s position in the meetings and exhibitions market. Simpler access for speakers, exhibitors, and organisers makes it easier to commit to regional dates.
Cruise and maritime tourism
Multiple‑entry support helps cruise lines plan shore time confidently. This encourages longer calls, more excursions, and higher local spending around ports.
Key takeaways
The UAE’s introduction of four new visit visa categories marks a significant shift in its immigration strategy. From AI specialists to cruise ship tourists, these reforms are designed to boost the economy, attract talent, and promote tourism. Additional changes to family sponsorship, humanitarian visas, and residency rules reflect a broader push to enhance inclusivity and competitiveness. For expats, investors, and visitors alike, the new visa framework creates fresh opportunities to experience and engage with the UAE.
Disclaimer: The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) publishes the official rules. Always verify the latest eligibility, fees and documentation requirements with ICP.
FAQs
Professionals working in artificial intelligence or related fields, provided they are invited or sponsored by a licensed UAE technology company.
Yes, if you are sponsored by the event organiser and your visit is for entertainment purposes.
Applicants must hold a valid itinerary and be sponsored by a licensed maritime or leisure operator.
Some categories, such as the AI Specialist Visa and the Cruise Ship Visa, offer multiple-entry options.
Visit the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) website or consult registered immigration advisors.
AED 4,000 for first-degree relatives, AED 8,000 for second- and third-degree relatives, AED 15,000 for friends.
Currently, they are designed for temporary stays, but long-term residency options may be available through other UAE visa pathways.
CTA: Plan your move with Property Finder
The UAE’s evolving visa framework is opening new opportunities for professionals, tourists, and investors. The latest visit visas are opening doors for professionals, creatives, event organisers, and tourists alike.
Whether you’re here for a short stay, a career project, or exploring long-term opportunities, finding the right home is essential.
With Property Finder, you can:
- Browse thousands of apartments and villas for rent or sale across the Emirates.
- Connect instantly with a SuperAgent for trusted, responsive guidance.
- Use DataGuru for personalised property insights.
- Plan your finances with the built-in Mortgage Calculator.
Start exploring your options today on Property Finder and make your UAE experience seamless from the very first step.
