As an expat-friendly nation, the UAE has always tried to attract the best talent to its shores. To this end, the rulers of the UAE have recently approved and implemented sweeping changes in visa regulations. This makes it easier for talented, ambitious people to live and work in the UAE. Here is what you need to know about visas into the UAE:
Entry permits into the UAE can be issued for various different purposes: employment, tourism or transit through UAE, visiting family in the UAE, medical treatment, business or attending conferences, mission or study visas etc. Visitors can apply for the 96 Hour Transit Visa, 30 Days Tourist Visa or 90 day visit visa.
Those planning to work and live in the UAE would require a residence visa (except UAE and GCC citizens). The UAE residence visa is typically sponsored by the company that employs the individual. A residence visa is a prerequisite for getting a driver's licence, opening a bank account, registering a car, buying a postpaid mobile plan etc.
In his tweet, His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, said that UAE will now start receiving applications for long term visas. These are meant for investors, entrepreneurs, innovators and professional talent in various fields.
The rulers of UAE aim to attract the best talent into the country and wish to promote the country as a permanent destination for pioneers. The UAE also aims to create educational avenues and attract researchers in the fields of science, knowledge and outstanding students. The visa benefits also include spouse and children to allow long term residents to enjoy a full, rounded lifestyle with familial support in a stimulating environment.
Long term visas are aimed at attracting people with special talents and researchers in science as well as outstanding students. It is also meant to create an encouraging investment environment for the growth of business for investors, entrepreneurs. The objective behind the long term visas is to offer stability to people coming to the UAE to work or research and to position UAE as an optimal business environment. Applications for these long term visas are now being accepted.
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