UAE residents can now invite friends and relatives to stay in the country for up to 90 days through the Friend or Relative Visa service run by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (FAIC). The service is available entirely online, making the process faster and simpler for both sponsors and visitors.
What Is the UAE Friend or Relative Visa?
The Friend or Relative Visa is a service that allows eligible UAE residents and citizens to formally sponsor a visit for someone they know. The programme offers flexible stay periods of 30, 60, or 90 days, with the choice of single or multiple entries.
Once issued, the visa remains valid for entry for 60 days from the date of issuance. If the visitor needs more time, an extension can be applied for from within the UAE before the original duration expires.
Who Can Sponsor a Visitor?
Not every UAE resident qualifies as a sponsor. The authority requires that:
- The sponsoring resident holds a first- or second-level job classification as defined by FAIC. - The visitor is a friend or relative of the first or second degree of a UAE citizen or qualifying resident.
These conditions are designed to ensure that the visa serves genuine personal connections rather than being misused.
What Does the Visitor Need?
Visitors invited under this scheme must present the following when applying:
- A passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay - A confirmed air ticket (onward or return) - Valid medical insurance covering the duration of the visit
All three documents are mandatory. Applications missing any of these will not be processed.
How to Apply Online
The application process is straightforward. The sponsoring resident logs in to the FAIC website or smart mobile application using their digital ID, selects the desired visa type and duration, fills in the invitee's details, and submits after verifying the information entered.
There is no requirement to visit a service centre in person — the entire process is handled digitally.
Official Comment
Maj-Gen Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, director-general of FAIC, said the visa service is designed to strengthen social bonds and support family reunification. He also noted that the UAE has continued to expand its visa options to make the country more welcoming to international visitors.
The authority reminded residents and their guests that visa duration limits are strictly enforced. Administrative penalties apply for overstaying or failing to depart within the permitted window.
Part of a Broader UAE Visa Strategy
The Friend or Relative Visa sits within the UAE's wider effort to encourage families and friends to spend extended time together in the country. It complements the government's ongoing push to position the UAE as a destination for lifestyle, tourism, and long-term investment — making it easier for residents to host the people who matter most to them.
