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UAE Introduces New Visit Visa Categories and Residency Permits: What Expats and Businesses Need to Know

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  The UAE continues to strengthen its position as a global hub for talent, tourism, and innovation. In a recent announcement, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) introduced new visit visa categories and residency permits aimed at attracting specialists, supporting the tourism sector, and providing humanitarian support to individuals in need. For expats, entrepreneurs, and businesses, these updates are more than policy changes—they are opportunities to access new markets, expand networks, and create long-term plans in the UAE. New Visit Visa Categories The UAE has unveiled four new categories of visit visas , each designed to cater to specific industries and visitor needs. 1 . AI Specialists Visa Artificial Intelligence remains a key focus in the UAE’s long-term vision. This visa targets professionals in AI and related technologies. Available as single or multiple-entry . Applicants must provide a supporting letter from a hosting or...

UAE suspends tourist and work visa applications for nine countries: Full breakdown of the 2026 visa ban

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  Introduction: What’s the Scoop? In September 2025 , multiple media outlets published that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has issued an internal circular suspending the issuance of tourist visas and work permits for citizens of nine countries starting in 2026 .  The suspension reportedly covers new visa applications only; individuals with existing valid visas would not be affected.  However, as of now, there is no official confirmation from UAE authorities (e.g. immigration ministry) publicly validating the ban.  This mixture of media reporting, internal circular leaks, and diplomatic denials makes the situation fluid and uncertain. Which Countries Are Reportedly Affected? According to multiple reports, the nine countries are (in no strict confirmed order) : Afghanistan  Bangladesh  Cameroon  Lebanon  Libya  Somalia  Sudan Uganda  Yemen  These lists stem from media citing an “internal immig...

Avoid Setbacks: Choosing the Right Business Licence in Dubai for Lasting Growth

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  Starting a business in Dubai is an exciting step — but it comes with crucial decisions that shape your company’s future. One of the most important is choosing the right business licence . This decision determines what activities your company can legally carry out, where you can operate, and how smoothly your business will grow. Choosing the wrong licence may lead to delays, penalties, and even business disruption — but with the right approach, you can set your company up for lasting success. Understanding Business Licences in Dubai Dubai offers multiple licence categories to support its diverse business ecosystem. Each licence is designed to fit a specific type of business activity: Commercial Licence – Ideal for businesses involved in trading, retail, or e-commerce. Professional Licence – Suited for service-oriented businesses such as consultancy, marketing, IT, or design firms. Industrial Licence – Required for manufacturing, production, or industrial operations...

UAE Green Visa: Five-Year Residency for Skilled Professionals

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  The UAE continues to strengthen its position as a global hub for talent by offering long-term residency options that make it easier for skilled professionals to live and work in the country. One such initiative is the UAE Green Visa , which allows qualified individuals to secure five-year residency — no sponsor required. This visa is a game-changer for professionals who are looking to build a stable career and life in the UAE. What Is the UAE Green Visa? The Green Visa is a residency program designed to attract skilled workers, freelancers, and investors to the UAE. Unlike traditional work visas, the Green Visa allows individuals to sponsor themselves for a five-year stay, giving them greater flexibility and security. Eligibility Criteria for Skilled Workers For skilled professionals, the Green Visa is available under the following conditions: Minimum Salary Requirement: AED 15,000 per month Employment Contract: Must have a valid work contract in the UAE Skil...

Business Setup Insights for Every Entrepreneur

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    Starting a business is an exciting journey, but it also comes with challenges that require preparation, strategy, and the right insights. Whether you are a first-time entrepreneur or an experienced business owner, understanding the essentials of business setup can help you build a strong foundation for long-term success. 1 . Define Your Business Idea Clearly Every successful venture starts with a strong idea. Beyond identifying a product or service, consider: Who your target audience is. What problem you are solving. How your solution is different from the competition. Clarity at this stage ensures you are not just starting a business, but building a purpose-driven brand. 2 . Choose the Right Business Structure Your business structure influences ownership, liability, and taxation. Common options include: Sole Proprietorship – Simple, but with personal liability. Partnership – Shared responsibility and resources. Limited Liability Company (LLC) –...

Why Summer in the UAE is the Perfect Time to Launch Your Business

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  When you think of summer in the UAE, you might picture quieter streets, families traveling, and a slower business pace. But here’s the truth: while many people press pause, smart entrepreneurs press play. Summer could be your golden opportunity to set up and launch your business—and the advantages are far greater than you might think. Below, we explore seven powerful reasons why summer in the UAE can be the smartest time to start your entrepreneurial journey —and how you can make the most of it. 1 . Less Competition, More Visibility Many entrepreneurs wait until after summer to start new ventures, which means fewer competitors in the market. This quieter business landscape gives you a unique chance to stand out, secure attention from your target audience, and build relationships without the usual noise. 2 . Faster Government and Licensing Processes Government departments, free zones, and licensing authorities often have lighter workloads during summer. This can translate t...

New UAE Rule: Clear All RTA Fines Before Renewing Your Visa

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  The UAE has introduced a significant new regulation that links visa renewal to your traffic record — specifically, your outstanding RTA fines. Under this rule, all fines issued by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) must be cleared before you can proceed with your visa renewal application. Stay Updated, Subscribe our Whatsapp Channel   This means that whether you have unpaid parking tickets, speeding fines, or Salik violations, you will need to settle them before your residency status can be extended. Why This Rule Matters The initiative aims to encourage timely payment of traffic fines, promote safer driving habits, and ensure compliance with local regulations. It also streamlines government processes by linking multiple services under one requirement. Types of RTA Fines Affected If you are a driver in Dubai or elsewhere in the UAE, the following fines must be cleared before renewing your visa: Parking violations Speeding tickets Red light signal violation...

UAE 2‑Year Employment Visa Process — August 2025

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  UAE 2 ‑Year Employment Visa Process — August 2025 Looking to land a two‑year work visa in the UAE? This step-by-step guide walks you through the entire process as of August  2025 , with updated timelines, fees, and procedures. Stay Updated, Subscribe our Whatsapp Channel 1. Secure a Job Offer & Signed Contract Your journey begins when a UAE-based employer offers you a position and registers a signed employment contract with the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE) or relevant authority. 2. Employer Applies for Work Permit (Entry Permit) The employer applies for a work permit—often called a "labor card" or "entry permit"—through MOHRE's new digital platform. Approval typically takes around 3–7 working days . 3. Entry to UAE Once approved, you receive an entry permit valid for 60 days , allowing you to enter the country and complete visa formalities. 4. Medical Screening & Biometric Enrollment On arrival, you undergo a medical fitnes...

Mainland or Free Zone? Why This Decision Defines Your Business Journey in Dubai

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  When it comes to starting a business in Dubai, the first and most important question isn’t about your marketing plan or funding source. It’s a decision that determines your business’s flexibility, scalability, and even your day-to-day operations: Stay Updated, Subscribe our WhatsApp Channel Should you choose Mainland or Free Zone? While Dubai offers a world-class business ecosystem, understanding the difference between these two setups is crucial. The right choice can lay a strong foundation for your success, while the wrong one can lead to limitations that slow you down. Let’s break it down. Understanding the Basics Free Zone Setup Dubai has over 40 Free Zones, each catering to specific industries such as media, technology, logistics, or finance. These zones are designed to attract foreign investment with business-friendly benefits. Key Advantages: 100% foreign ownership Full repatriation of profits and capital No personal or corporate income taxes (subject t...