Traveling to the UAE this summer? Here’s good news! The UAE is offering free visa for select tourists this summer. The Federal Authority of Identity and Citizenship announced that travelers under 18 years of age need not pay visa fees. How awesome is that!
What’s it?
Passengers under 18 years of age can visit the UAE this summer, without paying for a visa. The new visa rule is applicable between July 15 and September 15 every year, and is expected to hit a high during off peak season. The new rule was already announced in September 2018, by the UAE Cabinet. However, this is the first year of implementation.
The move is an initiative to promote tourism in the UAE.
Meanwhile, the UAE has already started accepting long term visas since February, this year.
Two committees have been allotted to review candidates for the visas- one for investors and the other for entrepreneurs, scientists, and specialized talent. In order to be eligible for the 10-year visa, candidates will have to meet certain terms and conditions.
For Investors
Investors must invest a minimum of AED 10 million in the UAE in order for them and their family to be eligible for the visa. A renewable, multi-entry visa with a validity of six months will be issued for investors to complete formalities in the UAE. Property investors will, however, be granted only a 5-year visa.
For Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs will be granted a 5-year visa. They will also need approval from a UAE accredited incubator or must already own a successful business worth a minimum of AED half million. They are also eligible to sponsor one domestic helper. A multi-entry visa with a validity of six months will be issued to complete formalities in the UAE.
For Specialized Talents
As for specialized talents and researchers in science and technology, a 10-year visa will be granted. The eligible categories include doctors, specialists, scientists, exceptional talents, executives and specialists in the educational disciplines, along with their families. However, there are specific conditions to be fulfilled by each of these categories in order to qualify. Candidates with a bachelor’s degree, five years’ work experience, earn a minimum salary of AED 30,000, have a valid employment contract in the UAE and health insurance are granted the visa.