2 new UAE visas for tourists, remote work: All we know so far

The UAE announced two new visas earlier today.

One is a remote work visa that can be used by professionals to reside in the UAE as they connect to work abroad virtually.

The other is a multiple-entry tourist visa that is open to all nationalities.

These came as His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, chaired a Cabinet meeting on Sunday.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid stressed that the government continues to develop flexible programmes and initiatives to offer the best quality of life for citizens and residents.

"We are working with clear objectives to boost our economic status globally ... Our journey of development endures."

>> Remote work visa

The one-year visa enables professionals from all over the world to live and work remotely from the UAE even if their companies are based in another country.

They can stay in the UAE under their own sponsorship.

They can work in line with the "terms and conditions issued with the visa".

The scheme offers entrepreneurs and professionals the opportunity to move to the UAE and experience its safe and attractive business environment, "with access to all the necessary services, including world-class utilities and telecoms".

It aims to enhance the work-life balance, boost productivity and improve the business environment. It also enables employees to expand their digital skills and adapt to the emerging gig economy.

>> Multi-entry tourist visa

The five-year visa does not need a guarantor. For each entry, the visa holder can stay in the country for up to 90 days, which is extendable by another 90. Open to all nationalities, the visa holder can enter and exit the country as many times as needed.

• Dubai
• Abu Dhabi