The UAE just rolled out a special visa for artificial intelligence professionals, putting the country ahead in the global race for tech talent. This new AI specialist visa, announced September 30, 2024, lets tech companies sponsor AI experts for quick entry into the Emirates.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) launched four new visa categories targeting high-demand sectors. Beyond AI specialists, the program includes visas for entertainment workers, event organizers, and cruise tourism staff.
AI Professionals Get Priority Access
The AI specialist visa stands out as the most strategic addition. Tech companies in the UAE can now sponsor international AI experts for single or multiple entries. These professionals need only a sponsorship letter from a licensed technology company operating in the Emirates.
This puts the UAE in direct competition with countries like Singapore, Canada, and Australia for the world’s limited pool of AI talent. According to recent data, the UAE already ranks among the top 20 countries attracting AI professionals globally, holding 0.7% of international AI talent.
“These updates address the needs of applicants and encourage individuals to live, work and explore opportunities in the UAE,” said Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, director general of the ICP. The changes support the country’s goal of becoming a global AI leader by 2031.
Global Competition for AI Talent Heats Up
Countries worldwide are fighting to attract AI experts as demand far exceeds supply. Singapore leads the region with 1.5% of global AI talent, while Australia holds 1.3%. The UAE’s new visa program aims to close this gap quickly.
The Emirates offers unique advantages beyond visa convenience. Tax-free salaries, world-class infrastructure, and proximity to emerging markets in Asia and Africa make it attractive for AI professionals. The country also provides access to government AI projects and partnerships with international tech giants.
Major tech companies already operating in the UAE include Microsoft, Google, Amazon, and IBM. These firms can now use the AI specialist visa to bring in experts for regional operations and research centers.
Three Other New Visa Categories Launch
The entertainment visa targets professionals in film, music, and digital content creation. The UAE wants to become a regional hub for creative industries, competing with established centers like Los Angeles and London.
Event visas serve professionals organizing conferences, exhibitions, and cultural activities. Dubai and Abu Dhabi host hundreds of international events annually, requiring specialized expertise for planning and execution.
Maritime tourism visas support the growing cruise industry in the Arabian Gulf. Tourism officials expect cruise passenger numbers to double over the next five years as new ports open across the Emirates.
Humanitarian Rules Get Broader Scope
The ICP also expanded humanitarian residence permits for people fleeing war zones and natural disasters. These permits now last one year and don’t require sponsorship, making the UAE more accessible for displaced professionals.
Widows and divorced women can obtain residency without sponsors within six months of their husband’s death or divorce. This change removes previous barriers that left many women in difficult legal situations.
Income Requirements Set for Family Sponsorship
New rules establish clear income requirements for UAE residents sponsoring family and friends. First-degree relatives need sponsors earning at least AED 4,000 ($1,090) monthly. Second and third-degree relatives require AED 8,000 monthly income from sponsors.
Friend sponsorship demands the highest income threshold at AED 15,000 monthly. These requirements ensure sponsors can financially support their guests during their stay.
Business exploration visas now require proof of financial capacity matching intended business activities. This change prevents unqualified applicants from entering on business pretenses while supporting legitimate entrepreneurs.
Implementation Timeline and Next Steps
The new visa categories took effect immediately after the September 30 announcement. Tech companies can start submitting applications for AI specialist visas through the ICP’s online portal.
Processing times vary based on the complexity of applications and sponsoring company credentials. Established tech firms with proven track records can expect faster processing than new market entrants.
The UAE plans to review these visa categories annually, adjusting requirements based on market demand and economic conditions. Officials expect significant uptake in the AI specialist category given current market conditions.
This visa expansion is the largest immigration policy update in the UAE since the Golden Visa program launched in 2019. The changes position the Emirates as a more flexible and responsive destination for international talent across multiple sectors.
