UAE Visit Visa Rules Update: Hosts must meet new salary requirements — Dh4,000 for first-degree relatives, Dh8,000 for extended family, and Dh15,000 for friends. Learn all details and implications for expats
The United Arab Emirates has introduced major updates to its visit visa system, setting new salary requirements for expatriate residents who wish to host relatives or friends. The changes, announced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) on Monday, are part of the country’s broader strategy to attract talent, boost tourism, and strengthen its position as a global hub for innovation and investment.
Key Changes in UAE Visit Visa Rules
The updated regulations have redefined income thresholds for expatriate residents acting as guarantors or hosts for visitors:
- First-degree relatives (parents, children, spouse): Host must earn at least Dh4,000 per month.
- Second- or third-degree relatives (siblings, grandparents, uncles, cousins): Host must earn at least Dh8,000 per month.
- Friends of foreign residents: Host must earn at least Dh15,000 per month.
This tiered system reflects the UAE’s approach to balancing humanitarian considerations with economic and security needs.
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UAE Visit Visa Rules: Why the Changes Matter
According to Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director General of ICP, the decision followed “careful studies and forward-looking assessments” on global migration, residency, and foreign affairs trends. The ICP also considered feedback from residents through service evaluation channels, call centres, and government platforms.
The reforms are not only about visitor management but also tie into the UAE’s larger goals of:
- Supporting economic diversification by boosting trade, tourism, and transport.
- Strengthening community security through structured visa regulations.
- Attracting global talent and entrepreneurs, particularly in technology, AI, and entertainment sectors.
- Enhancing the UAE’s global competitiveness as a destination for work, living, and investment.
Impact on Residents and Visitors
The revised income thresholds mean expatriates with lower salaries may face restrictions in sponsoring extended family members or friends. However, the Dh4,000 minimum for first-degree relatives reflects a humanitarian approach, ensuring families can remain connected.
Meanwhile, the higher Dh15,000 requirement for friends underscores the UAE’s emphasis on economic stability and security while opening opportunities for well-established residents to host visitors from abroad.
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UAE Visit Visa Rules: Strategic Vision for the Future
These visa reforms align with the UAE’s vision of being more open to the world while carefully managing migration flows. By tightening conditions for certain categories and easing them for close family members, the UAE is seeking to balance social stability with economic progress.
In the long run, these changes are expected to support:
- Growth in the technology and AI sectors.
- More opportunities in tourism and entertainment.
- Stronger positioning of the UAE as a global innovation and business hub.
UAE Visit Visa Rules Update: Conclusion
The UAE’s updated visit visa framework is a significant step toward shaping a more structured, secure, and competitive residency system. For expatriates, it brings both opportunities and challenges — greater ease in bringing immediate family, but stricter conditions for hosting friends and distant relatives.
As the UAE continues to refine its visa policies, the underlying message is clear: the country aims to remain welcoming yet selective, ensuring that its doors are open to those who can contribute to its ambitious growth story.