What To Know
- Once launched, it will allow travelers to move freely between the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman using a single visa.
- A new Golden Visa category has been introduced for Waqf donors who financially support humanitarian and charitable initiatives.
- Dubai continues to update its visa system to attract global talent, support professionals, and simplify residency and travel.
Dubai continues to update its visa system to attract global talent, support professionals, and simplify residency and travel. In 2026, several important visa changes and initiatives are either newly launched or moving closer to full rollout. Whether you’re planning to live, work, or visit Dubai, here’s what you need to know.
New Golden Visa Services for Holders
Golden Visa holders can now access consular services while travelling abroad. This benefit was previously reserved for Emirati citizens. The initiative provides added support and protection for long-term residents and was introduced in collaboration with federal authorities.
Dubai Launches a New Golden Visa Category
A new Golden Visa category has been introduced for Waqf donors who financially support humanitarian and charitable initiatives. Both residents and non-residents can qualify, provided they meet eligibility criteria under existing Cabinet resolutions.
New UAE Visit Visa Categories Announced
The UAE has launched new visit visas for specialists in artificial intelligence, entertainment, events, cruise tourism, and leisure boating. Updates were also made to visas for humanitarian purposes, visiting friends, and truck drivers.
The 10-Year Blue Visa Is Now Live
The Blue Visa offers a 10-year residency to individuals who have made meaningful contributions to environmental protection. Eligible applicants include sustainability leaders, environmental researchers, activists, and award winners, with applications available online worldwide.
GCC Unified Tourist Visa Nears Rollout
A new Schengen-style GCC tourist visa is approaching its trial phase. Once launched, it will allow travelers to move freely between the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman using a single visa.
Nurses Granted Golden Visas in Dubai
Nurses who have served Dubai’s healthcare system for more than 15 years are now eligible for Golden Visas. The move recognizes their long-standing contribution to public health and healthcare quality in the emirate.
Influencers and Creators Get Golden Visa Support
Content creators, including influencers, photographers, writers, and digital artists, can now receive structured support when applying for Golden Visas. Applications are assessed based on creative impact and contribution to the UAE’s media and creative economy.
AI-Powered Dubai Visa Renewals Introduced
Dubai has launched an AI-driven platform called Salama, allowing residents to renew visas in minutes. The system also supports visa cancellation and sponsored residency services, reducing processing time significantly.
Golden Visa Expanded for Teachers
Exceptional educators are now eligible for Golden Visas based on performance, impact, and contribution to Dubai’s education sector. The initiative applies mainly to private education professionals who meet strict evaluation criteria.
Dubai Visa Renewals Linked to Traffic Fines
Visa renewal and cancellation services are now connected to Dubai Police systems. Residents are prompted to clear any outstanding traffic fines before completing immigration processes, either in full or through instalment plans.
