The UAE has just announced some big changes to its visa rules, and they’re going to affect both residents and expats. But don’t worry, these changes actually aim to make things easier when it comes to visas, jobs, and traveling around.

In this article, we’ll break down what exactly these new rules are and what they mean for you, whether you’re a student, a working professional, or just someone looking to explore the Emirates as a visitor. Let’s dive in and see how these changes might impact your experience in the UAE!

UAE Visa Rules in 2024

In recent times, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has implemented several fresh visa regulations. These changes have made it more convenient and attractive for skilled labourers, investors, and retirees to reside and engage in work within the country. These adjustments have been initiated by the new cabinet regulations.

Here are some new visa rules in 2024

Unified GCC tourist visa

During its 40th Interior Ministers council in Muscat, Oman, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) officially agreed a unified tourist visa. Thus, marking a significant step towards improving regional tourism and economic engagement.

By allowing visa holders entry to all six GCC nations, the unified Gulf tourist visa seeks to facilitate travel between residents and visitors while also promoting local tourism and financial integration. By keeping tourists in the Gulf area, this deliberate action seeks to improve relations between the GCC countries.

The newest sources state that the GCC countries’ tourism ministers have approved the single Gulf tourist visa. It seems likely that this visa will be put into effect in 2024 or 2025. This depending on the internal requirements of each GCC nation.

Multiple-entry visa

New multiple-entry visas for business and leisure travelers are available in the UAE. The UAE government intends to introduce a new five-year, multiple-entry tourist visa. According to new visa rules, it will not require a sponsor and permit stays of up to 90 days, with the possibility of an additional 90 days.

This eliminates the need for repeat visa applications. Thus, allowing travelers to more easily explore and do business in the United Arab Emirates. Before submitting an application for a visa, the applicant must have a balance of no less than AED 14,700. Or its equivalent in foreign currencies within the previous six months.

Business visa

Investors, entrepreneurs, and business people are eligible for a business visa to the UAE without a host or sponsorship.

Family/friends visit visa

If a foreigner has friends or relatives who are citizens or residents of the UAE, they may apply for this visa on their behalf. In a similar vein, no sponsor or host is necessary for this visa. In the UAE, renewing a visit visa typically costs AED 1,100, though this might change.

Temporary work visa

Candidates for this specific visa may be required to complete project-based or probationary work assignments, among other temporary employment assignments. Eligible applicants must provide documentation of their employment, such as:

• Temporary job agreement
• Employment letter
• Medical certificate

In order to be granted this visa.

Study visa

This visa caters to students or potential talent who wish to take part in academic courses, join specific training courses, or pursue internship opportunities. Educational research institutes in the public and private sectors can provide sponsorship opportunities.

A statement of intent detailing the duration and specifics of the study/training course must also be provided by the entity.

Family visa

Parents could sponsor their children up until the age of 18 under the prior family residency legislation. Male children are able to be sponsored until the age of 25. Likewise, female daughters can be sponsored in perpetuity. Plus, kids with special needs need a special permit, according to the UAE’s new visa rules.

Job seeker visa

The UAE government has taken a ground-breaking action to assist job seekers and streamline the application procedure. No hosts or sponsors are necessary for this visa, and applicants must have at least:

• Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent.
• Be recent grads from the world’s top 500 colleges.
• Applicants who fit into the MOHRE’s first, second, or third competency levels.

UAE re-entry permit

Agents at the Dubai Travel and Typing Center confirm that residents with residence visas who are going to be abroad for longer than six months are eligible to request for a re-entry permit.

With this permission, residents can avoid having their residence dismissed by returning to the United Arab Emirates within 30 days of approval.

Residents must present documentation of their eligibility and give an explanation for why they are staying outside of the nation.

For all Emirates with the exception of Dubai, the permission may be obtained via the ICP official website. Visas issued by Dubai will require a somewhat different procedure.

Entry permit extensions

• Depending on the reason for the visit and additional circumstances, entry permits to the UAE can be extended for a maximum of 90 days.
• Candidates must apply through the appropriate travel agency and have a passport that has been valid for at least 6 months.
• By registering an account and paying costs, entry permit renewals can be obtained using the ICP smart system within 48 hours.
• GCC citizens can purchase two 30-day extensions for AED 610, in exchange for AED 260 and a copy of their passport.

Extensions for education, healthcare, and GCC associate entry permits may be longer than one month. AED 510 permits for healthcare may be extended for up to 90 days. AED 260 permits for GCC companions, and AED 610 permits for study purposes.

How to Dubai visa apply online easily in 2024

UAE Offers various ways to secure your visa. You may apply Dubai visa on

• GDRFA’s official website. 
• Reaching your  nearest Dubai embassy.
• Through an online visa service provider.

EvisaDubai & VisitsVisa are very popular visa and immigration service providers. You may reach out to their website. Their Application form is very easy and the overall process is convenient. Even in 10 mins you can apply for the visa form. After processing the visa you will get your visa within your mailbox.