The UAE has confirmed a series of visa rule updates for 2025, introducing new visa categories and revising existing regulations to improve entry, residency, and long-term stay options. Federal authorities said the changes are aimed at supporting tourism, attracting skilled professionals, and strengthening the country’s global competitiveness.
The updates were announced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) and were rolled out gradually across 2024 and early 2025. Officials said the revised visa framework reflects the UAE’s efforts to modernise immigration services while aligning them with economic and social priorities.
According to authorities, the updates include new visit visa categories, changes to visit visa sponsorship rules, expanded access to long-term residency options, and administrative updates to standardise visa procedures across emirates.
New Visa Categories Added
The UAE has officially introduced the following new visit visa categories:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) Specialist Visit Visa
- Entertainment Visit Visa
- Event Visit Visa
- Cruise and Leisure Tourism Visa
Officials said these categories are designed to provide clearer entry options for visitors linked to technology, culture, events, and tourism sectors.
Focus on Long-Term Residency
Several of the updates announced during the year focus on long-term residency. Authorities expanded Golden Visa categories to recognise long-term contributions in selected fields and introduced a new residency option linked to environmental efforts, highlighting the UAE’s focus on sustainability.
Officials stressed that the visa updates do not represent a single policy shift but a series of targeted changes introduced over time. Authorities said visa policies will continue to be reviewed, and further refinements may be announced during 2025. Residents and visitors are advised to follow official government channels for accurate and up-to-date information.
