UAE Launches Four New Visit-Visa Categories You Should Know About

Got projects and events in the Emirates this year? Well, the UAE has launched four new visit visa categories. You no longer need to spend money on tourist visas. These new UAE visit visas are introduced for purposes like short projects, events, creative work, and even cruise trips. Efficient Tourism will walk you through the new UAE visit visas, and you will be golden for your next trip!

Why These New Visit Visas Matter

While there are millions of tourists in the UAE, not all of them travel for the same reason. People going on cruise holidays who are not planning to spend days in the country don’t need to apply for the regular tourist visa you are familiar with. Here are the four new UAE visit visa options that you can now consider while visiting the country:

• AI Specialist Visa
• Entertainment Visa
• Event Visa
• Cruise / Marine Tourism Visa

Detailed Visa Categories

1. AI Specialist Visa

The UAE is undoubtedly one of the leading destinations for advanced tech exhibitions. So, if you are working in artificial intelligence, robotics, automation, or any similar field, this visa is for you. Without the hassle of going through several tourist visa checkboxes, you can now enter the country for a short period (single or multiple entries) as well!

• You will need a sponsoring or host tech company in the UAE. They must confirm why you are here.
• Eliminates the hassle of applying for a long-term work visa when your stay is for a short period.

2. Entertainment Visa

Actors, crew members, performers, or anyone working in the entertainment industry can apply for this new UAE visit visa. It only needs a licensed entertainment company or organizer in the country to sponsor you.

• They may require some documents to confirm the visit.
• It is also beneficial for those who are flying to host a concert, a cultural program, or a film shoot.
• The visa stay matches the entertainment assignment duration.

3. Event Visa

If you are planning to attend a specific event in the UAE, the event visa is the right choice. From conferences and business meet-ups to trade exhibitions and sports events, you are eligible to apply for this new UAE visit visa as long as you have the invitation.

• The invitation should clearly mention your role and the event dates.
• The stay is open for single or multiple entries, but it depends on the event duration.

4. Cruise/Marine Tourism Visa

If you travel to the UAE on a cruise ship or leisure boat, this new UAE visit visa offers the exact duration of stay as per the cruise itinerary. It is beneficial for those whose routes stop at any of the UAE ports.

• The visa allows you a single or multiple entries into the country.
• You must submit the detailed itinerary of travel and port stops.

A Few Things You Should Check Before Applying

• Each visa needs a sponsor inside the UAE.
• The documents you submit must match your visit purpose.
• The stay period depends on your invitation or itinerary.
• Kindly check the visa specifications, as not all of them allow multiple entries or a renewal option.
• Choose the category that best fits your purpose.
• You can have a quick chat with your host in the UAE to save time and ensure you apply for the correct visit visa type.

Important Updates to Existing Categories

1. UAE Work Visa for Truck Drivers- The foreign truck drivers can now apply for single or multiple-entry visas. Furthermore, you must provide proof of payment for the financial guarantee, visa fees, and health insurance documents, and be sponsored by a licensed transport or shipping company.
2. Visiting Friends or Relatives in the UAE- They have introduced an income-based sponsorship criterion for residents. Below is the list of relationship types and the minimum monthly income of the residents who can then sponsor a family or friend:
   First-degree relatives, such as parents and siblings- 4000 AED
   Second- or third-degree relatives- 8000 AED
   Friends- 15,000 AED
3. Business Exploration Visa- Applicants must show they are financially stable based on the type of business they plan to explore. They also need to prove they already run a business abroad or have strong professional experience in the same field. This visa mainly supports people who want to study the market, look into company setup options, explore investment plans, or consider partnership opportunities in the UAE.
4. Humanitarian Case Visa- There is now a one-year humanitarian visa for foreigners from countries affected by wars, political unrest, or disasters. It stays valid for one year and is renewable only under specific conditions. You don’t need a guarantor or host for it, and it can be issued on recommendation from the General Directorate of Identity and Foreign Affairs. However, once you leave the UAE, the visa becomes invalid.
5. Residence for Widows and Divorcees- As per the latest updates, foreign widows and divorcees of Emirati citizens can now stay in the country without a sponsor.

Conditions:

• You can get residency within 6 months of your husband’s demise or divorce, if you are without children.
• If you are with children and are also their legal custodian, you can apply within 6 months.
• In case of financial solvency, you must have appropriate housing and sufficient income.
• You can apply for an extension for another similar duration as long as there is a valid justification.

Takeaway

The UAE’s new visit visa categories offer you clarity, comfort, and confidence when you plan your trip. Instead of using one standard option for everything, the UAE now gives you more focused choices. This makes your travel smoother and more organised. If you need support choosing the right visit visa or want help understanding the requirements, our team can also guide you through your Dubai visa options., you can always reach out and get the guidance you need.