More stories

  • in

    Major milestone: Official approval granted for common GCC tourism visa

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    1 hour ago

    In a groundbreaking move, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states have given the green light to a revolutionary GCC tourism visa, reminiscent of the Schengen model.
    This momentous decision was announced by Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, during a gathering of regional interior ministers at the GCC summit in Muscat, Oman, on November 8.
    Emphasizing the significance of this new visa, the Secretary General hailed it as a remarkable achievement for the region. He also stressed the need for the timely implementation of the GCC tourist visa within a specific timeframe.
    A recent statement by Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, the UAE’s Minister of Economy, indicated that the unified tourism visa could become a reality by 2025. The minister explained that the rollout would be contingent upon the development of specific regulations and legislation. If all internal systems of the participating countries are prepared, the launch is anticipated between 2024 and 2025.

    | “أقرَّ أصحاب المعالي والسمو مواضيع هامة أبرزها:١- التأشيرة السياحية الخليجية الموحدة.٢- ربط المخالفات المرورية إلكترونيًا بين دول المجلس.٣- إعداد استراتيجية شاملة لمكافحة المخدرات.”
    |بيان الأمين العام معالي جاسم البديوي عقب الاجتماع الـ40 لأصحاب السمو والمعالي وزراء… pic.twitter.com/zo8OFXAs03
    — Hala FM | هلا أف أم (@Halafmradio) November 8, 2023

    The introduction of a GCC common tourism visa is set to revolutionize travel in the region. Once operational, visitors can utilize a single tourism visa to explore all six GCC states: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
    This visionary initiative aligns with the GCC 2030 tourism strategy, aiming to boost the tourism sector’s contribution to the GDP by fostering increased inter-GCC travel and raising hotel occupancy rates. The ultimate goal is to position the GCC as a premier global destination for both regional and international tourists, as articulated by the UAE Minister.
    The UAE’s Minister of Economy highlighted that this tourism visa is not only a simplification of travel logistics but also a catalyst for an upsurge in tourism across the region.
    This strategic move is poised to make regional travel more accessible and attractive within the next two years.
    For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram: Feature Image: @visitdubai More

  • in

    Saudi Arabia visa on arrival: Which nationalities are eligible for it?

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    5 mins ago

    Saudi Arabia has introduced a significant change to Umrah visas, now offering visa on arrival to citizens from twelve additional countries.
    Effective from August 20, 2023, travelers from nations such as the United States, United Kingdom, various European countries, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, Japan, Kazakhstan, Brunei, and China can obtain Umrah visas upon reaching the kingdom.
    This new system permits entry through air, sea, or land ports, enabling a 90-day stay in Saudi Arabia. These visas not only facilitate spiritual journeys but also promote family connections and tourism experiences.

    أداء العمرة عبر التأشيرة عند الوصول، للعديد من دول العالم. #في_القلب_يا_مكة pic.twitter.com/b6PaN2NiTz
    — وزارة الحج والعمرة (@HajMinistry) August 18, 2023

    This update allows travellers to explore the Kingdom and it’s rich heritage. To take advantage of this opportunity, eligible visitors must pay a $117 visa fee, which includes health insurance coverage. Those interested in applying for a visa on arrival can easily navigate the process on Saudi Arabia’s official eVisa website.
    What is Umrah, the Islamic pilgrimage?

    Umrah, also referred to as the ‘lesser pilgrimage’ or ‘minor pilgrimage’, entails a visit to the Holy Ka’aba, the Sacred Home of God. This sacred practice is open to Muslims throughout the year. In Islamic terms, Umrah involves performing Tawaf around the Holy Ka’aba and Sa’i between the hills of Safa and Marwah while in a state of Ihram, signifying a sacred commitment.
    The core purpose of undertaking Umrah is to establish a connection with Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala – Glory to Him, the exalted), attain His pleasure, and reap the abundant rewards tied to this act of devotion. Through this spiritual journey, individuals cleanse their body, heart, soul, and mind from their past transgressions.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Feature Image: @visitsaudi More

  • in

    Eid escape: 12 countries with visa on arrival and visa-free entry for UAE residents

    If you’re looking for a much-needed escape for the upcoming Eid Al-Adha holidays without any additional visa hassle, we’re here to help.
    While travel is very much back on everyone’s radars, sometimes certain passports require specific visas, which can quite often be a tedious process. However, for UAE residents, there are many destinations which are visa-free or have a visa-on-arrival option.
    When is Eid Al-Adha?
    Following Arafat Day, Eid Al-Adha will commence on Wednesday, June 28. This joyous celebration honours Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son. The festivities will span from June 27 to July 1, marking a six-day long weekend for the private sector.
    Below, the Emirates Woman editors have curated a guide for all the countries offering visas on arrival for UAE residents.
    Georgia

    All UAE residents who have a valid visa can travel to the country and receive a visa on arrival in Georgia. Holders of other GCC countries can travel visa-free for a period of 90 days and receive an entry stamp upon arrival. From Tblisi’s nightlight to stunning mountains, there’s a long list of endless activities to do on your visit.
    Flight time: 3 hours & 30 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Armenia

    With a rich history and picturesque ancient architecture, a visit to the country should definitely be added to your bucket list. All Indian, Lebanese, Jordanian and South African nationals with a valid UAE residency visa can receive a visit visa on arrival due to the positive relations between the UAE and Armenia leading to a special visa-waiver programme. The cost of the visa is around Dhs20 and details regarding additional requirements can be found online.
    Flight time: 3 hours & 10 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Azerbaijan

    Known for its contemporary design, Azerbaijan is home to iconic buildings including landmarks designed by the famous Zaha Hadid. All UAE residents with a valid residency visa can present their passport at the counter after paying and receive a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa on evisa.com.az to avoid standing in long queues.
    Flight time: 3 hours approx. 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Japan

    If Japan was on your travel bucket list this year, the process to visit is now a whole lot easier with the latest e-visa laws. The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has set up a new online tourist visa system. All residents are required to apply more than seven days before their trip. Applicants will need to apply via the dedicated website Japan eVISA, where upon successful submission, a digital confirmation visa will be sent to the applicant. At immigration, visitors will need to simply log on to the website and show the visa upon entry. The new system allows residents of permitted countries to apply for an online tourist visa which will grant e-visas for up to 90 days in Japan.
    Flight time: 9 hours and 34 minutes
    For the latest visa requirements visit here.
    Maldives

    For a quick idyllic getaway, a tourist visa is granted to all nationalities visiting the country. A few requirements such as a pre-paid hotel or accommodation booking, sufficient funds to last during the stay, confirmed tickets to return to their home country or country of residence and a traveller declaration form which must be filled in and submitted by all passengers going to and from the Maldives within 96 hours of travel. A visa for a maximum time period of 30 days will be granted on arrival for tourists. With an archipelago of islands to visit, travellers can experience nature at its finest.
    Flight time: 4 hours & 15 minutes
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Seychelles

    With Seychelles being a visa-free country, Indian citizens will not require a visa on arrival or an e-visa to enter the country for a short stay. This scenic escape ensures a seamless travel experience, however, a valid passport will be required to gain entry into the country. However, certain documents such as a valid return ticket, confirmed accommodation and sufficient funds for the duration of the stay amounting to $150 (Dhs550) per day are required in case asked for.
    Flight time: 4 hours & 35 minutes
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Nepal

    Most nationalities can receive a visa on arrival for a small price depending on the tenure of the visit. A 15-day visa costs Dhs110, a 30-day visa costs Dhs183 or a 90-day permit for Dhs460 and can be decided accordingly upon arrival. All Indian passport holders do not require any visa and can visit hassle-free.
    Flight time: 4 hours & 20 minutes
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Serbia

    For passports with a valid Schengen, UK or US visa, a visa-free entry is granted upon arrival. For those who do not have the mentioned visas, five documents will be required including travel booking details, proof of vaccine, the original passport and proof of funds to substantiate enough money for the stay and to leave.
    Flight time: 5 hours & 55 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Indonesia

    With the perfect blend of culture, nature, culinary delights and design mastery, this haven should be on your list of destinations to travel to. Bali is now open for tourists after the pandemic, as this irresistible country offers a visit visa on arrival for a period of 30 days, which can be easily extended for another 30 days at any visa office in the country. Upon arrival in Indonesia, there is a checkpoint available for visa on arrival which is priced at $35 (Dhs128).
    Flight time: 8 hours & 27 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Mauritius

    Known for its expansive beaches, lagoons and reefs, this country is most definitely a must-visit for all. For those who love nature, there’s a wide range of forests, waterfalls and hiking trails to experience the outdoors. The maximum duration of stay is three months and it is free for UAE citizens. Upon arrival, passengers need to visit the immigration counter and show the original passport to obtain an entry stamp.
    Flight time: 6 hours & 35 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Sri Lanka

    All UAE residents can receive an e-visa which can be obtained from the comfort of their homes. A visa can be applied for online prior to visiting with the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) initially limited to 30 days validity from the date of arrival and extended for up to six months. All applicants require a mandatory passport to be valid for six months from the date of arrival. It is important to check the list of countries eligible for Sri Lanka ETA before applying.
    Flight time: 4 hours & 30 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Thailand

    All UAE residents will need to apply for a Thailand Pass which takes up to one to two hours when the application is submitted. After submitting the required documents, passengers will receive a QR entry code and a Thailand Pass ID needed for entry. With the UAE included in the Visa Exemption Scheme of Thailand, UAE citizens can stay up to a period of 30 days.
    Flight time: 6 hours and 20 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @aatras More

  • in

    Eid escape: 12 destinations with visa on arrival and visa-free entry for UAE residents

    If you’re looking for a much-needed escape for the upcoming Eid Al-Adha holidays without any additional visa hassle, we’re here to help.
    While travel is very much back on everyone’s radars, sometimes certain passports require specific visas, which can quite often be a tedious process. However, for UAE residents, there are many destinations which are visa-free or have a visa-on-arrival option.
    Below, the Emirates Woman editors have curated a guide for all the countries offering visas on arrival for UAE residents.
    Georgia

    All UAE residents who have a valid visa can travel to the country and receive a visa on arrival in Georgia. Holders of other GCC countries can travel visa-free for a period of 90 days and receive an entry stamp upon arrival. From Tblisi’s nightlight to stunning mountains, there’s a long list of endless activities to do on your visit.
    Flight time: 3 hours & 30 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Armenia

    With a rich history and picturesque ancient architecture, a visit to the country should definitely be added to your bucket list. All Indian, Lebanese, Jordanian and South African nationals with a valid UAE residency visa can receive a visit visa on arrival due to the positive relations between the UAE and Armenia leading to a special visa-waiver programme. The cost of the visa is around Dhs20 and details regarding additional requirements can be found online.
    Flight time: 3 hours & 10 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Azerbaijan

    Known for its contemporary design, Azerbaijan is home to iconic buildings including landmarks designed by the famous Zaha Hadid. All UAE residents with a valid residency visa can present their passport at the counter after paying and receive a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa on evisa.com.az to avoid standing in long queues.
    Flight time: 3 hours approx. 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Japan

    If Japan was on your travel bucket list this year, the process to visit is now a whole lot easier with the latest e-visa laws. The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has set up a new online tourist visa system. All residents are required to apply more than seven days before their trip. Applicants will need to apply via the dedicated website Japan eVISA, where upon successful submission, a digital confirmation visa will be sent to the applicant. At immigration, visitors will need to simply log on to the website and show the visa upon entry. The new system allows residents of permitted countries to apply for an online tourist visa which will grant e-visas for up to 90 days in Japan.
    Flight time: 9 hours and 34 minutes
    For the latest visa requirements visit here.
    Maldives

    For a quick idyllic getaway, a tourist visa is granted to all nationalities visiting the country. A few requirements such as a pre-paid hotel or accommodation booking, sufficient funds to last during the stay, confirmed tickets to return to their home country or country of residence and a traveller declaration form which must be filled in and submitted by all passengers going to and from the Maldives within 96 hours of travel. A visa for a maximum time period of 30 days will be granted on arrival for tourists. With an archipelago of islands to visit, travellers can experience nature at its finest.
    Flight time: 4 hours & 15 minutes
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Seychelles

    With Seychelles being a visa-free country, Indian citizens will not require a visa on arrival or an e-visa to enter the country for a short stay. This scenic escape ensures a seamless travel experience, however, a valid passport will be required to gain entry into the country. However, certain documents such as a valid return ticket, confirmed accommodation and sufficient funds for the duration of the stay amounting to $150 (Dhs550) per day are required in case asked for.
    Flight time: 4 hours & 35 minutes
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Nepal

    Most nationalities can receive a visa on arrival for a small price depending on the tenure of the visit. A 15-day visa costs Dhs110, a 30-day visa costs Dhs183 or a 90-day permit for Dhs460 and can be decided accordingly upon arrival. All Indian passport holders do not require any visa and can visit hassle-free.
    Flight time: 4 hours & 20 minutes
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Serbia

    For passports with a valid Schengen, UK or US visa, a visa-free entry is granted upon arrival. For those who do not have the mentioned visas, five documents will be required including travel booking details, proof of vaccine, the original passport and proof of funds to substantiate enough money for the stay and to leave.
    Flight time: 5 hours & 55 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Indonesia

    With the perfect blend of culture, nature, culinary delights and design mastery, this haven should be on your list of destinations to travel to. Bali is now open for tourists after the pandemic, as this irresistible country offers a visit visa on arrival for a period of 30 days, which can be easily extended for another 30 days at any visa office in the country. Upon arrival in Indonesia, there is a checkpoint available for visa on arrival which is priced at $35 (Dhs128).
    Flight time: 8 hours & 27 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Mauritius

    Known for its expansive beaches, lagoons and reefs, this country is most definitely a must-visit for all. For those who love nature, there’s a wide range of forests, waterfalls and hiking trails to experience the outdoors. The maximum duration of stay is three months and it is free for UAE citizens. Upon arrival, passengers need to visit the immigration counter and show the original passport to obtain an entry stamp.
    Flight time: 6 hours & 35 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Sri Lanka

    All UAE residents can receive an e-visa which can be obtained from the comfort of their homes. A visa can be applied for online prior to visiting with the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) initially limited to 30 days validity from the date of arrival and extended for up to six months. All applicants require a mandatory passport to be valid for six months from the date of arrival. It is important to check the list of countries eligible for Sri Lanka ETA before applying.
    Flight time: 4 hours & 30 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Thailand

    All UAE residents will need to apply for a Thailand Pass which takes up to one to two hours when the application is submitted. After submitting the required documents, passengers will receive a QR entry code and a Thailand Pass ID needed for entry. With the UAE included in the Visa Exemption Scheme of Thailand, UAE citizens can stay up to a period of 30 days.
    Flight time: 6 hours and 20 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @clairerose More

  • in

    New Schengen-style visa for GCC countries will ease travel across the region

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    31 mins ago

    The Schengen-style approach will allow travellers to roam across all GCC countries in a hassle-free manner.
    Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. After this change is implemented, tourists from across the globe can plan a trip to all these countries without worrying about multiple visas.

    The important announcement came under light at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM). Fatima Al Sairafi, Minister of Tourism for the Kingdom of Bahrain said,”We see that happening very soon because we see people flying from abroad to Europe usually spending their time in several countries rather than in one country. We really saw the value this can bring not to each country but all of us.”
    Pointing to last year’s FIFA World Cup as a successful “test pilot” in terms of GCC collaboration, she further added, “We have huge opportunity, the effort is in how to unify all the countries in the GCC. We had 9.9 million visitors in 2022. How? There was one key initiative that year, we started to co-promote Bahrain as a unified destination with the GCC.

    With tourism becoming a major money-making arm across GCC, this initiative will further accelerate the revenue that travellers bring in.
    While there is yet to be an announcement about the offical implementation and the timeline, but so far, this unified effort feels like a step in the right direction.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram More

  • in

    UAE Green Visa: Here’s how freelancers and skilled workers can get 5-year residency

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    1 hour ago

    If you want to move to UAE without being tied to an employer, the UAE Green visa is tailor-made for you.
    UAE’s Green visa allows its holder to sponsor themselves for 5 years without the requirement of a UAE national or employer to do the same.
    As per Abu Dhabi Residents Office (ADRO), the vision behind this new visa is to make the job market more felxible and invite extraordinary talent from across the globe to UAE. It comes with  not just a long-term residency solution but also serves more benefits to the families of the visa holder, as opposed to those with a standard residence visa.

    Who is eligible for this visa?
    Freelancers, self-employed and skilled employees can apply for a Green visa.
    Benefits of the Green Visa
    Removes  the need for employment to reside in the UAE.
    Allows sponsorship for sons up to the age of 25 and unmarried daughters of any age.
    The Green Visa also offers an extended grace period of six months after the 5-year validity is over.
    Application criterias for freelancers and/or self-employed people
    Freelancers and/or self-employed need to submit a freelance/self-employment permit from Ministry of Human Resources.
    Emiratisation proof of a bachelor’s degree or a specialised diploma.
    Evidence of annual income from self-employment for the previous two years amounting to not less than AED 360,000, or proof of financial solvency throughout their stay in the UAE.
    Application criterias for Skilled employees
    Must have a valid employment contract.
    Should be classified in the first, second or third occupational level as per Ministry of Human Resources.
    Hold a minimum of bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
    Have a salary of not less than AED 15,000 per month.
    Application criteria for investors
    Approval from the ICP on the investment as per the investors’ rating system.
    Investment proof, if the investor/partner has more than one licence, the total invested capital will be calculated accordingly.
    Approval from competent local authorities.
    Green Visa process and cost
    Visit www.gdrfad.gov.ae or download the GDRFA-Dubai application.
    Create a new user account.
    Select the required service – Issuance of entry permit for green residence under Entry Permissions
    Click on the relevant subcategory: Skilled worker, investor, partner or freelance work
    Attach the required documents
    Pay the fees due for the service (Dhs2,280)
    Submit the request
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Image: Instagram More

  • in

    GCC residents can now enter Oman visa-free

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    For those thinking of hassle-free escape, Oman’s visa rules have now been updated for all GCC residents.
    Per an official announcement by Oman’s airport authority, all GCC residents have the right to enter the Sultanate for commercial professions without a visa.
    GCC residents in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates can pay for visas on arrival for a more seamless travel experience.

    The circular issued by the Directorate General of Passports and Residence regarding the visa of residents stated.

    All residents of the GCC countries have the right to enter the Sultanate of Oman for all commercial professions.
    It is not required for people to come from the country of residence. For example, a resident of any GCC country is not required to arrive directly from that GCC country to avail of this facility.
    It is permitted at any time and from any destination they arrive from.
    For the application of what is stated in items 1 and 2 above, it is required that the residence visa be valid in the GCC for a period of no less than three months.
    The procedures mentioned above referred to are applied, taking into account the importance of following the policy of granting visas to restricted nationalities.

    Known for its bustling hotspots, the country attracts tourists all year round to visit some of its most fascinating sites including Musandam, Wahiba sands, Jebel Akhdar and more.
    Implemented to boost tourism in Oman, the new visa scheme will now allow enhanced corporation between states in the region marking a new era of travel.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @visitoman  More

  • in

    Visa changes in the UAE: 6 new options available from today

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    As the UAE continues to bring in new changes post the COVID-19 pandemic, visas are a major topic of discussion.
    Back in April, the UAE Cabinet approved a number of new visas, as the country continues to welcome expats from around the globe.
    “The new system of entry and residence is aimed at attracting and retaining global talents and skilled workers,” the cabinet said via a statement from the media office.
    With a host of new visas being granted from today, October 3, 2022, below is everything you need to know.
    Visitor visa
    Tourist visas were previously limited to 30 days, but as of today visitors are now able to stay for a total of 60 days.
    Visitors can apply for a new entry permit that allows them to enter without a sponsor or host if they are a relative or friend of a UAE citizen or resident.
    Tourists who wish to visit for a longer period of time can also apply for a five-year multi-entry tourist visa, which lets visitors stay for up to 90 days in one go in the UAE, without exceeding 180 days in one year. A bank balance of $4,000 (Dhs14,692) in the last six months will be required, as proof of sufficient funds.
    Business visa
    For those who wish to start their own company or invest in other companies, a business visa can be granted without a sponsor.
    Temporary work visa
    For any project-based work or temporary work assignments, candidates can receive a temporary work visa after submitting a temporary work contract or a letter from the employer and a valid health certificate, per the government website.
    Visa for studying/training
    This visa is required for internship programmes, study courses and training purposes. The requirements for such a visa include the details of the study or the internship and its overall duration. It can be sponsored by public and private sector educational and research institutes.
    Family visa
    Families now have the option of sponsoring male children until the age of 25, where it was previously 18 years old only. Sponsorship can also be granted to disabled children and unmarried daughters for an indefinite time.

    The new Entry and Residence Scheme offers 10 types of entry visas with simplified requirements and more benefits. New visas require no host or sponsor, offer more flexibility, multi entry, 60 days validity and one unified platform to apply at pic.twitter.com/0PsCJYaoyR
    — UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) April 18, 2022

    Job visa
    After graduating from the best 500 universities, job-seekers can avail of this latest visa that will be given to bachelor’s degree holders or its equivalent to exploring more job opportunities in the UAE. This visa can be granted to those who fall under the first, second or third skill levels category as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
    Already available in the UAE
    Multi-entry tourist visa
    If tourists wish to visit the UAE and stay for a longer time frame, that’s now possible for up to 90 days and it can be extended for another 90 days without a sponsor with this five-year multi-entry tourist visa. The requirements include a minimum bank balance of $4000 (Dhs14,700) or its equivalent in the last six months before applying.
    Green visa
    If residents wish to bring their families without a sponsor or employer, this five-year visa is granted to skilled workers, self-employers and freelancers who have a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent and a minimum salary of Dhs15,000.
    Golden visa
    Launched as part of a programme in 2019, however, effective in full force since 2021. The Golden visa is now offered to a host of professionals that have changed over the course of time. Golden visa holders can now sponsor their families including their wife and kids without any age limit along with domestic workers.
    For entrepreneurs
    With the UAE considered a startup hub and with an influx of innovative business, entrepreneurs are now eligible to apply under this category. The requirements are for any small and medium enterprise (SME) to generate not less than Dhs1m in revenue or the individual should be a founder of a previous project that was sold for not less than Dhs7m and it needs to be approved by the Ministry of Economy or competent local authorities.
    For real estate owners
    The visa categories included those who have a property with a minimum investment of Dhs2 million in real estate, with investors who purchase properties on a mortgage plan where the total investment is Dhs2 million or more.
    For ‘exceptional talents’
    The categories for receiving the visa have been expanded. Under this category, individuals in fields such as culture & art, sports, investors & innovators, and digital technology can now be beneficiaries of this esteemed visa scheme.
    For scientists & researchers
    Any notable scientists and those conducting intense research in their field will have an opportunity to apply, based on the recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council. The requirements for this category include a Ph.D. or master’s degree in either of the heads that include engineering, technology, life sciences and natural sciences from well-reputed universities along with proof of research and any achievements.
    For outstanding students
    Students in UAE secondary schools and exceptional graduates from UAE universities and 100 of the best situated worldwide have an opportunity to apply for this visa. The requirements include sharing their academic performance, year of graduation and university classification.
    For skilled workers
    Workers who have a Bachelor’s degree, and a valid contract of employment, are classified under the occupational level one or two as defined by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation and have a minimum monthly income of Dhs30,000 will be granted this visa in the UAE.
    For more information visit the UAE government website. 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @kasialukaszczuk More