The United Arab Emirates has implemented six significant visa and residency reforms in 2026, affecting tourists, property investors, medical travellers, and visitors from several countries. The changes, announced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) and Dubai authorities, aim to streamline entry procedures, improve residency pathways, and strengthen public health measures.
Expanded Visa-on-Arrival Programme
One of the most notable updates is the expansion of the UAE's visa-on-arrival programme. Previously available only to eligible Indian nationals, the scheme now includes citizens of Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Kenya, and South Africa. Additionally, the list of countries whose residency permits qualify applicants for the facility has been broadened. Besides the United States, the United Kingdom, and European Union member states, eligible travellers may now hold valid residency in Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, or Canada.
Faster Tourist Visa Approvals in Dubai
The General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai announced that single-entry tourist visas can now be approved within 48 hours when applications are submitted through authorised tourism offices. These visas remain valid for stays ranging from 30 to 60 days, significantly speeding up the process for visitors.
Updated Property Investor Residency Rules
Dubai has revised the eligibility criteria for its two-year property-linked residency visa. Under the updated policy, the previous minimum property value requirement of Dh750,000 for sole property owners has been removed. However, applicants must be the exclusive owner of the property to qualify. For jointly owned properties, each owner's share must be worth at least Dh400,000 before applying for the residency permit.
Temporary Grace Period for Overstay Fines
The ICP granted a temporary 30-day grace period to visitors who had been exempted from overstay fines due to regional airspace disruptions. Eligible individuals were instructed to regularise their immigration status or leave the country before the July 9, 2026 deadline.
Smart Medical Visa Initiative
Dubai unveiled plans to introduce a smart medical visa under a new partnership between the GDRFA and the Dubai Health Authority. This initiative is expected to simplify travel for international patients by integrating visa processing with healthcare services, covering arrival through treatment and follow-up care.
Visa Suspension for Ebola-Affected Countries
As a precautionary measure against the spread of the Ebola virus, the UAE suspended the issuance of new visas to nationals of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan. The suspension took effect on June 6, 2026, following a joint announcement by the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority and the ICP. Authorities stated the measure may remain in force depending on public health developments.
According to Khaleej Times, these reforms reflect the UAE's continued efforts to balance easier access for genuine travellers with updated residency policies and safeguards aimed at protecting public health and national security.
