UAE Visa Changes 2025: 10 Key Updates Every Traveler and Expat Should Know

The UAE has announced significant visa changes for 2025, affecting tourists, expats, and professionals. From new residency options to stricter entry rules, here’s what you need to know before visiting.

Overview of Visa Reforms

The UAE has made visa reforms more accessible for travel, work, and long-term residency. Whether you’re a tourist, professional, retiree, or sustainability expert, these updates are vital for your plans in the UAE.

10 Key Visa Updates for 2025

Here’s a breakdown of the latest UAE visa policy changes and their impact on travelers and expats this year.

1. 5-Year Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa

Dream of frequent trips to the UAE? The new 5-year multiple-entry tourist visa allows 90-day stays. To qualify, you need a $4,000 bank balance, health insurance, a return ticket, and confirmed accommodation.

• Multiple entries for 5 years.
• 90-day stay per visit.
• Financial proof and health insurance required.

2. Easier Visa-On-Arrival for Indian Nationals

Indian citizens with valid visas from the US, UK, EU, Canada, Japan, or Singapore can now enjoy a simplified visa-on-arrival process. This update makes spontaneous trips to the UAE more accessible.

• Applicable to Indian passport holders.
• Requires valid visas from select countries.
• Simplifies travel process.

3. Stricter Entry Documentation Requirements

Travelers must now present stricter entry documentation. Proof of funds (AED 3,000–5,000), confirmed hotel bookings or host invitations, and return tickets are mandatory.

• Proof of funds is required.
• Confirmed accommodation or host invitation needed.
• A return ticket is mandatory.

4. New Blue Visa for Environmentalists

The UAE introduces the Blue Visa, a 10-year residency for climate scientists and environmentalists. Apply online to contribute to the UAE’s eco-friendly initiatives.

• 10-year residency.
• For environmental professionals.
• Online application available.

5. 5-Year Retirement Visa

Expats aged 55 and older with 15+ years of work experience can now apply for a 5-year retirement visa. Financial proof, such as property ownership or savings, is required.

• 5-year residency for retirees.
• Must be 55+ with 15 years of experience.
• Financial proof required.

6. Golden Visa for Superyacht Owners

Owners of superyachts measuring 40 meters or more may qualify for a 10-year Golden Visa through the “Golden Quay to Abu Dhabi” program. This enhances the UAE’s maritime appeal.

• 10-year Golden Visa.
• For superyacht owners (40m+).
• Enhances maritime appeal.

7. No More 10-Day Grace Period for Overstaying

The UAE has eliminated the 10-day grace period for overstaying. Authorities will impose immediate fines, so renew your visa or exit before it expires.

• No more 10-day grace period.
• Immediate fines for overstaying.
• Plan exits carefully.

8. Green Talent Visa for Sustainability Experts

Professionals in renewable energy and sustainable urban development can secure a 5-year Green Talent Visa. This visa includes startup perks to encourage innovation.

• 5-year residency.
• For green technology professionals.
• Includes startup perks.

9. Digital-Only Visa Applications

All visa applications must now be submitted online via the UAE ICP Smart Portal. This digital transformation includes AI-powered checks and SMS/email tracking for an efficient process.

• Online applications only.
• AI-powered checks.
• Efficient processing.

10. Updated Visa Fees and Faster Processing

The UAE has updated its visa fees and improved processing times. The 5-year multiple-entry visa costs AED 650, with processing taking just 3–5 working days.

• 30-Day Single Entry: AED 410.
• 30-Day Multiple Entry: AED 510.
• 5-Year Multiple Entry: AED 650.
• Processing time: 3–5 working days.

Final Thoughts

These visa reforms for 2025 make travel, business, and long-term residency easier. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or an expat looking to settle, these changes open new opportunities. Always check official UAE immigration channels for the latest guidelines before planning your trip.