New Amendments to Entry and Residency Visas in the United Arab Emirates – 2025

Introduction

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security has announced a series of substantial amendments to the UAE’s entry and residency visa system. These changes reflect the nation’s commitment to strengthening its position as a global hub for investment, tourism, and innovation while preserving its humanitarian and social values.

The new regulations mark a qualitative shift in governing the legal and procedural relationship between individuals and the state, addressing matters related to entry, residence, and employment, and imposing new obligations on visa applicants and their sponsors.

1. New Categories of Visit Visas

To promote economic diversification and attract global talent, four new categories of visit visas have been introduced:

· Artificial Intelligence Specialists: Targeting the attraction of creative minds and advanced technical expertise in line with the UAE Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031.

· Entertainment and Events Sector: Designed to support the growing tourism and event industries, which have become pillars of economic diversification.

· Tourist Ships and Leisure Boats: Facilitating marine entry procedures to enhance marine tourism.

· Professional and Specialized Visits: Allowing experts and professionals in emerging sectors to enter the country in response to local labor market demands.

These new categories demonstrate the flexibility of the UAE’s system in keeping pace with global trends and attracting visitors and investors from diverse fields.

2. Humanitarian Residency Permit

The Federal Authority has introduced a special one-year renewable residency permit for humanitarian cases, such as widows, divorcees, orphans, or individuals whose exceptional circumstances require them to remain in the country for humanitarian reasons.

From a legal standpoint, this type of residence represents an exception to the general rules of residency and reaffirms the UAE’s commitment to humanitarian standards and its socially conscious legislative framework.

3. Residency for Foreign Widows and Divorcees

This residence permit is granted for one year and may be renewed, provided an official document—such as a death certificate or a divorce judgment—is submitted.

The objective is to protect women and their children and ensure their financial and social stability within the country. This measure embodies the humanitarian dimension of UAE legislation, which seeks to balance legal precision with social responsibility.

4. Visit Visa for Friends and Relatives

This visa allows UAE residents to host a friend or relative up to the third degree, provided the sponsor has sufficient income to cover the guest’s expenses.

This step expands the concept of legal sponsorship, as the sponsor bears direct responsibility for the visitor’s stay and compliance with the Authority’s regulations to prevent misuse.

5. Business Exploration Visa

This visa is specifically designed to support entrepreneurs and investors. It requires proof of financial capability to establish a new company or acquire a share in an existing one.

It may also be granted to self-employed professionals, reinforcing the UAE’s status as a destination that fosters entrepreneurship and economic flexibility.

6. Truck Driver Visa

This visa addresses the needs of the land transport sector and requires a local sponsor, along with health and financial guarantees for the driver.

Legally, the sponsor assumes full responsibility for the driver’s conduct and financial and health obligations, thereby enhancing professional oversight and legal safety within this vital industry.

7. Regulation of Residency Periods and Renewal Rights

The Authority has established clear timelines for the duration of stay permitted under each visa category, along with specific mechanisms for renewal. This ensures transparency and simplifies procedures for both visitors and residents, while reducing administrative confusion and potential violations.

Conclusion

The new amendments to the UAE’s entry and residency visa framework for 2025 strike a careful balance between economic flexibility, legal rigor, and humanitarian consideration.

They not only strengthen the UAE’s role as a global center for investment and tourism but also redefine the legal relationship between residents, visitors, and the state to promote transparency and sustainability.

Companies, individuals, and sponsors are therefore urged to thoroughly review and comply with the updated regulations to avoid any future legal or administrative liabilities.