Family just got closer! UAE now allows residents to sponsor 3rd-degree relatives and friends.
The UAE has rolled out fresh visa categories to keep pace with its growth in technology, culture, events, and tourism. Among these new visas:
An AI Specialist Visa is created for professionals in artificial intelligence, allowing them to enter or stay under conditions tailored to their skills.
An Entertainment Visa supports artists, performers, and creators coming to take part in cultural or entertainment projects.
An Events Visa covers people attending or working on concerts, conferences, exhibitions, sports, festivals, or educational programs.
A Cruise / Tourism Visa targets travelers arriving by cruise ships or leisure vessels, facilitating easier visits during port stops.
Alongside these new categories, existing visa rules have also been updated:
Relatives and friends sponsorship rules are revised (as above), making it easier to invite loved ones.
Residence visas for widows or divorcees now have more clarity and access in certain cases.
Humanitarian permits are introduced for people from conflict-affected or disaster-hit countries.
Overall, these changes aim to make UAE more inviting—for talent, creativity, events, and families. The shift reflects the country’s ambition to grow as a global hub—not just for business, but for culture and human connection.
