The move supports the UAE’s goal of opening up to the world
DXB is targeting to welcome 100 million passengers to its hub by 2026.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has announced the launch of new visit visa categories, along with revised durations, conditions, and regulations for several existing visas.
This initiative aligns with the UAE’s vision of strengthening global connectivity and positioning itself as a hub for skilled professionals, innovators, and entrepreneurs, particularly in the fields of technology, artificial intelligence, entertainment, and tourism.
Among the amendments, one key modification has been made in conditions for issuing a visa to visit a friend or relative.
If a foreign national wants to visit a first-degree relative of an expat in the country, the monthly income of the guarantor/host must not be less than Dh4,000. If the foreigner coming to the country is a second- or third-degree relative, the monthly income of the guarantor/host must not be less than Dh8,000. If the foreigner is a friend of a foreign resident, the monthly income of the guarantor/host must not be less than Dh15,000.
Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director General of the ICP, explained that the decision is the outcome of extensive studies and forward-looking reviews carried out by the authority. These assessments took into account both present and future developments in residency and foreign affairs at the local, regional, and global levels. They were also informed by continuous evaluations of services and feedback gathered from customers through ICP’s councils, call centre, complaint and inquiry channels, and the government services observatory. He added that the updates are in line with the authority’s mission to enhance community security while contributing to economic diversification and sustainable growth.
He added that the updates are designed to meet the needs of customers while considering the humanitarian and economic circumstances of those wishing to live, work, or explore business opportunities in the UAE. These changes aim to improve quality of life, boost trade and transport, support technology sectors, and enhance the UAE’s competitiveness both regionally and globally.
