DUBAI, Dec 12: The United Arab Emirates continues to rank among the most desirable destinations globally for tourism, residency, and professional opportunities. To maintain its appeal and strengthen its position as a hub for global talent and investment, the UAE regularly updates its visa framework.

In 2025, the country introduced several important visa reforms — from new visit visa categories and expanded visa-on-arrival facilities to enhanced Golden Visa pathways and new compliance requirements. These changes significantly shape how visitors, residents and professionals plan their travel and long-term stay in the UAE.

Below is an in-depth look at the key visa rule changes introduced in 2025, and what they mean for different categories of travellers and expats.

In September 2025, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) unveiled four new visit visa categories, designed to attract specialists and support emerging sectors.

a. Specialists in Artificial Intelligence (AI)

b. Entertainment Sector

c. Events and Conferences

d. Tourism via Cruise Ships and Luxury Yachts

These additions reflect the UAE’s focus on diversifying its tourism and talent inflow.

From September 2025, UAE residents who wish to sponsor relatives or friends on a visit visa must meet updated minimum salary thresholds, depending on the relationship:

Applicants also need to provide proof of kinship for sponsorship eligibility.

In February, the UAE broadened its visa-on-arrival programme for Indian passport holders. Now, Indian citizens with valid residence permits from the following six countries qualify:

This is in addition to the previously eligible categories — holders of valid visas, residence permits, or Green Cards from the US, UK, or EU.

In April, UAE Ambassador to Pakistan Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Al Zaabi announced the introduction of a five-year multiple-entry tourist visa for Pakistani nationals.

This came after resolving issues related to increased scrutiny over concerns involving unlawful activities. The visa allows travellers to enter the UAE multiple times over five years without needing a local guarantor or host.

From September, all entry permit applications must include a copy of the passport’s external cover page, in addition to:

This measure helps streamline identity verification.

In July, Dubai launched a pilot system linking residency visa issuance and renewal to the settlement of outstanding traffic fines.

Residents must clear all fines before completing visa procedures. The GDRFA stated that the initiative intends to promote compliance with traffic laws and prevent accumulation of unpaid violations.

Under directives from Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai introduced a Golden Visa category for nurses:

The initiative recognises their vital contribution to Dubai’s healthcare sector.

Dubai launched a new Golden Visa pathway for content creators, part of the Creators HQ programme aimed at attracting global creative professionals.

Eligible applicants include:

Applications must be submitted through the Creators HQ website, where experts assess eligibility under the “Content Creators and Creative Talent” category.

In October, a new Golden Visa category was introduced for Waqf (Islamic endowment) donors, classified as “financial supporters of humanitarian work.”

Under a cooperation agreement between GDRFA–Dubai and Awqaf Dubai, qualifying donors — whether residents or non-residents — may be nominated for the visa, based on criteria outlined in Cabinet Resolution No. 65 of 2022.

To provide enhanced support to long-term residents abroad, the UAE announced dedicated consular assistance for Golden Visa holders, including:

This ensures affected families face fewer bureaucratic hurdles during emergencies.

The UAE introduced a 180-day multiple-entry permit for individuals applying for the Blue Residency Visa, a 10-year residency awarded to those who have made exceptional environmental contributions.

This permit allows eligible applicants outside the UAE to enter the country and complete all required procedures seamlessly.