The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) announced several key amendments and additions to entry visa regulations on September 29, 2025 in a significant move to bolster the UAE’s position as a global hub for innovation, tourism, and humanitarian support.
With these changes, the UAE aims to attract specialized professionals, support emerging industries and also plans to provide assistance to individuals facing challenging circumstances.
Introduction Of Four New Specialized Visit Visas
Under this development, the UAE has introduced specialized visas for attracting professionals in high-demand sectors and supporting the tourism-related industries.
- AI Specialist Visa
This visa is mainly designed for experts in artificial intelligence as it allows single or multiple entries and is sponsored by licensed tech entities. UAE’s this initiative is aligned with its goal of becoming a leading hub for AI research, innovation, and implementation.
- Cruise Tourism Visa
This visa category is targeting the passengers and workers in the cruise industry as it supports the growing maritime tourism sector. Its multiple-entry permits facilitate smooth travel for cruise ship staff and visitors arriving via cruises hence boosting tourism and hospitality revenue.
- Event Visa
This visa category is mainly designed for the participants who are keen on attending economic, cultural, educational, or sports-related events, sponsored by event organizers as it simplifies entry for professionals and enthusiasts attending conferences, exhibitions, and festivals.
- Entertainment Visa
This category is especially designed for individuals participating in commercial gaming or entertainment activities which are sponsored by licensed entities in the UAE. This will help and support the UAE’s growing entertainment and digital gaming ecosystem.
All in all, these initiatives are aimed at attracting global talent at the same time driving innovation further strengthening the UAE’s position in tourism, technology, and entertainment industry.
Upgrade To The Visa Rules
Apart from the new visas, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has also implemented broad amendments to the UAE’s residency and entry visa regulations.
In this upgrade they have covered a range of areas which includes humanitarian residence permits, expanded residency options for widows and divorcees, new sponsorship rules for relatives and friends, updated business exploration visas, and revised regulations for truck drivers’ visas.
These changes are aimed at enhancing flexibility, support, and economic growth.
The above mentioned humanitarian residence permit is valid for one year,which also comes with the option of renewal.
Basically this permit provides support to the foreigners from countries affected by war, disasters, or unrest and it can be granted without the need for a guarantor or host.
It is noteworthy here that residency may be extended or canceled based on reports by the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs and it becomes void if the holder leaves the UAE.
