UAE Introduces Four New Visit Visa Categories Aimed at AI, Entertainment, and Cruise Tourism

The UAE has once again reinforced its reputation as a future-ready, globally attractive destination, this time, through a major expansion in its visa policy.

As of Monday, December 31, 2023, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) introduced four new categories of visit visas. These newly announced visas are specifically designed to attract specialists in Artificial Intelligence, entertainment professionals, global event attendees, and cruise ship tourists.

A Move to Attract Global Talent and Tourism

These regulatory updates are part of a broader push to align with the UAE’s long-term strategic goal: to become a global hub for technology, innovation, culture, and experiential tourism. The ICP stated that the amendments aim to “reinforce the UAE’s approach of openness to the world and its efforts to attract talent, expertise, and entrepreneurs”—with a particular emphasis on AI and digital-first industries.

What’s New? Breakdown of the 4 Visit Visa Categories

→ AI Specialists Visa

This is a single or multiple-entry permit intended for a limited duration. A letter of sponsorship from a UAE-based entity in the technology field is mandatory to apply. The move signals a focused commitment to developing the UAE’s artificial intelligence ecosystem.

→ Entertainment Visa

For foreign nationals participating in entertainment activities on a short-term basis. This includes performers, artists, and crew members coming for gigs, shoots, or cultural showcases.

→ Event Visa

Geared toward attendees of conferences, exhibitions, festivals, and other public/private sector events. Applicants must submit a letter from the UAE-based hosting organization detailing the nature and length of the event.

→ Tourism via Cruise & Leisure Boats

This visa category allows for multiple-entry tourist visas tied to cruise ships and leisure vessels that dock in UAE ports. Sponsorship from a licensed cruise operator is required.

Additional Policy Updates Worth Noting

→ Humanitarian Residence Permit

A one-year renewable visa for residents affected by war, disasters, or unrest in their home countries. This visa does not require a local sponsor.

→ Residency for Widows & Divorcees

Foreign widows or divorcees—whether married to Emiratis or expatriates—can now apply for a one-year residency permit with renewal options, subject to specific eligibility rules, such as custody of children and financial solvency.

→ Relatives & Friends Sponsorship

To sponsor immediate family, residents must earn at least AED 4,000/month.

To sponsor extended family (second/third degree), the threshold is AED 8,000/month.

To sponsor friends: AED 15,000/month income is required.

→ Business Exploration Visa

New eligibility criteria apply: the applicant must either be financially solvent, actively engaged in the proposed field abroad, or own a business aligned with the intended UAE venture.

The Bigger Picture: What This Means for the UAE’s Market Entry Landscape

These changes are more than regulatory tweaks, they are strategic signals. The UAE is doubling down on attracting skilled professionals, high-value tourists, and entrepreneurial talent, especially in fields that align with its Vision 2031 roadmap.

Whether you’re a founder exploring expansion, a professional seeking opportunity, or a tourism operator looking to scale routes into the Gulf, this shift opens doors.

Final Thoughts

The UAE is laying out a clear welcome mat for global talent in sectors shaping the next decade.

For founders, startups, and advisors working on regional market entry strategies, this is a golden moment to recalibrate your GTM approach and align it with the UAE’s new openness.

Want help positioning your business to take advantage of these regulatory updates?

Get in touch with our team for a UAE Go-To-Market Consultation.