UAE Introduces 4 New Visa Categories for AI, Gaming, and Tourism Starting August 2025

On August 10, 2025, the UAE will roll out four new visa categories aimed at AI professionals, event attendees, cruise ship tourists, and those involved in commercial gaming. These changes aim to attract global talent, enhance tourism, and support emerging industries.

The UAE is expanding its visa options again, making it easier for international experts and tourists to enter and stay in the country. Let’s explore what each new visa offers, who qualifies, and why these changes matter.

New UAE Visa Categories

The UAE is launching four new visa types to draw in global talent and boost tourism. Whether you work in tech, attend events, are part of the gaming industry, or arrive by sea, there’s a new visa for you.

1. UAE Visa for Artificial Intelligence (AI) Professionals

The UAE is introducing a dedicated visa for AI specialists. This multiple-entry visa allows stays of either 60 or 90 days, with extensions possible for up to 120 or 180 days.

• Type: Multiple-entry
• Duration: 60 or 90 days per stay, extendable to 120 or 180 days
• Who it’s for: Foreign nationals in AI roles
• Why it matters: This visa simplifies the process for AI experts, enabling them to take short-term contracts, lead projects, or consult for UAE companies without lengthy procedures. It’s ideal for those in research, product development, or applied AI.

2. UAE Event Visa

Foreign nationals can now apply for an Event visa to attend various events, including economic, cultural, sports, religious, and educational activities. Visitors may stay for 30 or 60 days, with extensions available up to 120 or 180 days.

• Type: Single-entry
• Duration: 30 or 60 days, extendable up to 120 or 180 days
• Who it’s for: Attendees of various events
• Why it matters: This visa reduces administrative hurdles, enhancing access for global visitors participating in exhibitions, tournaments, or festivals.

3. Visa for Commercial Gaming Activities

A new visa dedicated to the gaming sector is also being introduced. This 30-day visa will cater to individuals engaged in commercial gaming activities, though exact qualifying details are still forthcoming.

• Type: Single-entry
• Duration: 30 days, with one possible 30-day renewal
• Who it’s for: Individuals involved in commercial gaming
• Why it matters: This addition signals the UAE’s growing interest in gaming, potentially attracting international operators and investors while promoting entertainment zones.

4. Tourist Visa for Cruise Ship and Leisure Boat Passengers

Tourists arriving via cruise ships or leisure boats can now obtain a 30-day multiple-entry visa, with an option for a 30-day extension.

• Type: Multiple-entry
• Duration: 30 days, extendable for another 30 days
• Who it’s for: Tourists arriving via maritime travel
• Why it matters: This visa simplifies entry for maritime travelers, addressing common challenges like return tickets or hotel bookings. It aims to boost cruise tourism at UAE ports like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Freelance Visas on Hold

In addition to the new categories, the UAE has paused new freelance visa applications. This affects remote workers and self-employed individuals looking to relocate. While renewals are still allowed, the hold raises questions about the future of freelancing in the UAE.

Final Thoughts

With these four new visas, the UAE is refining its immigration system to align with national priorities, including tech innovation, event tourism, and maritime travel. For global travelers and professionals seeking flexible, short-term entry, these new options could significantly enhance their experience in the UAE.