UAE Visit Visa 2025: New Categories, Sponsorship Salary Rules & Humanitarian Permits Explained
The UAE has overhauled its visit visa and residency system to make it more transparent, sector-focused, and aligned with economic diversification. The changes, announced in September 2025 by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), are designed to attract global talent, strengthen tourism, and provide humanitarian safety nets.
This guide answers the most common questions about the UAE’s new visa rules.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security announces new amendments and additions to entry visa regulations pic.twitter.com/YAXxLI4XZF
— UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) September 29, 2025
What are the new UAE visit visa categories?
The UAE has launched four purpose-driven visit visas tailored to high-priority sectors:
| Visa Type | Who it’s for | Sponsor/Requirements | Entries & Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| AI Specialist Visa | Artificial Intelligence professionals & experts | Licensed tech company must provide a sponsorship letter | Single or multiple entries; duration depends on sponsor |
| Entertainment Visa | Performers, entertainers, and gaming professionals | UAE-licensed entertainment/cultural entity | Temporary; tied to project/event |
| Event Visa | Participants in festivals, exhibitions, conferences, seminars, sports & cultural events | Hosting entity (public or private) provides event documentation | Valid for event duration |
| Cruise & Leisure Tourism Visa | Tourists & crew arriving on cruise ships or yachts | Licensed cruise/tour operator + itinerary | Multiple-entry; valid for journey duration |
How much do you need to earn to sponsor family or friends?
The ICP has introduced income-based sponsorship rules for inviting relatives and friends:
| Relationship | Minimum Monthly Income Required |
|---|---|
| First-degree relatives (spouse, parents, children) | AED 4,000 |
| Second-degree relatives (siblings, grandparents, grandchildren) | AED 8,000 |
| Third-degree relatives (uncles, aunts, cousins) | AED 8,000 |
| Friends (non-relatives) | AED 15,000 |
Other requirements:
- Proof of kinship (for relatives)
- Passport valid for 6 months
- Return ticket
- Health insurance coverage
Duration & extensions:
- Standard stay: 30–90 days
- Extension: First 30 days + Second 20 days (with fees and approval)
What are the new humanitarian and social visa updates?
1. Humanitarian Residence Permit
- Valid for 1 year, renewable at ICP discretion.
- Granted to nationals from countries affected by wars, disasters, or unrest.
- Becomes void if the beneficiary leaves the UAE.
- Director General can waive solvency/kinship requirements in special cases.
2. Residency for Widows and Divorcees
- One-year renewable permit.
- Widow/Divorcee of Emirati citizen: Apply within 6 months of death/divorce.
- Widow/Divorcee of foreigner: Eligible if custodian of children and sponsored by spouse at time of death/divorce.
- Must show financial solvency & adequate housing.
- Custody disputes resolved by ICP committee.
What about Business and Labour-related visas?
Business Exploration Visa
Applicants must show financial solvency or proof of ownership/active involvement in a company abroad. This visa encourages entrepreneurs and investors to explore opportunities in the UAE.
Truck Drivers’ Visa
- Available as single or multiple-entry.
- Requires sponsorship by a licensed freight/transport company.
- Must include: financial guarantees, fees, and valid health insurance.
Why did the UAE introduce these changes?
According to Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili (Director General of ICP), the reforms are based on:
- Studies of local & global residency trends
- Feedback from residents and businesses
- Strategic goals: improving quality of life, supporting trade, attracting talent, and strengthening competitiveness
FAQs on UAE’s 2025 Visit Visa Updates
Q1: Can I sponsor my cousin or uncle?
Yes, but your monthly income must be at least AED 8,000.
Q2: Can I bring a friend to visit?
Yes, but only if your monthly salary is AED 15,000 or more.
Q3: Do these changes affect existing visit visa holders?
No. The rules apply to new applications moving forward.
Q4: Can widows or divorcees live in the UAE without a sponsor?
Yes. They can obtain a 1-year renewable residency permit, subject to solvency and housing conditions.
Q5: How do the new AI and Entertainment visas help professionals?
They allow short-term stays for project-based work, conferences, or cultural activities.
Final Thoughts
The UAE’s 2025 visa reforms represent a paradigm shift: visas are now aligned with economic, cultural, and humanitarian priorities. From AI specialists to cruise tourists, widows seeking stability to entrepreneurs, the framework reflects the UAE’s vision of becoming a global, inclusive hub. For expats and residents, these changes bring clarity, accountability, and opportunities — but also stricter responsibility when sponsoring family and friends.
