Islamabad, July 11, 2025: The UAE introduces four new visas for AI experts, event visitors, cruise tourists, and commercial gaming professionals, starting August 10, 2025.
To support innovation and tourism, the UAE has announced four brand-new visa types launching on August 10, 2025, targeting AI professionals, event attendees, cruise tourists, and those in the commercial gaming industry. These visas offer flexible entry and extended stay options, making travel to the UAE easier and more purpose driven.
1. UAE AI Professionals Visa
Aimed at experts in artificial intelligence, this multiple-entry visa allows 60 or 90-day stays, extendable up to 180 days.
- Type: Multiple-entry
- Duration: 60/90 days, extendable to 120/180
- Eligibility: Foreign AI professionals
- Purpose: Enables short-term projects, research, and consulting in the UAE’s growing AI ecosystem.
2. UAE Event Visa
This visa supports access to economic, cultural, religious, educational, and sports events held across the UAE.
- Type: Single-entry
- Duration: 30 or 60 days, extendable to 180
- Eligibility: International event attendees
- Purpose: Simplifies travel for global participants attending exhibitions, festivals, and forums.
3. Visa for Commercial Gaming Activities
The UAE steps into the gaming world by offering a visa for professionals in commercial gaming.
- Type: Single-entry
- Duration: 30 days, renewable for another 30
- Eligibility: Individuals in gaming (exact scope pending)
- Purpose: Promotes investment and development in the UAE’s emerging gaming sector.
4. Cruise Ship Tourist Visa
Tourists arriving via cruise or leisure boats can now enjoy smoother entry with this multiple-entry visa.
- Type: Multiple-entry
- Duration: 30 days, extendable by 30
- Eligibility: Cruise and boat passengers
- Purpose: Boosts cruise tourism across ports in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah.
Freelance Visas Temporarily Paused
While these new visa categories roll out, freelance visa applications are currently suspended, affecting remote workers and independent professionals. Renewals remain open, but new applications are on hold until further notice.
Why These New UAE Visas Matter
These four UAE visa categories are designed to attract global talent, event tourism, entertainment investors, and maritime travelers:
- AI Visa: Supports short-term tech projects
- Event Visa: Facilitates participation in UAE-hosted global events
- Gaming Visa: Opens doors for commercial gaming ventures
- Cruise Visa: Simplifies entry for sea travelers
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With these strategic changes, the UAE’s visa policy is evolving to align with its vision for tech advancement, tourism growth, and economic diversification. For travelers, professionals, and investors, these new visas offer smoother, faster, and more targeted access to the Emirates.
