UAE Introduces Minimum Salary Rules for Visit Visas: Positive Move for Dubai Tourism and Business
The UAE’s new minimum salary requirements for visit visas are set to attract more genuine visitors to the country while reducing absconding cases, according to travel and business experts.
On September 29, 2025, the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP), Customs and Port Security announced updated income criteria for UAE residents wishing to sponsor family members and friends. Under the new rules:
Residents earning Dh4,000 per month can sponsor first-degree relatives.
Residents with a salary of Dh8,000 per month can sponsor second- and third-degree relatives.
Residents earning Dh15,000 per month can sponsor friends for visit visas.
Benefits for Dubai Residents and Tourism
Sameer Bagul, Chief Business Officer at Cleartrip Arabia, described the new system as a “positive move,” allowing individuals to directly apply for visit visas through typing and Amer centres, rather than relying solely on travel agencies.
Bagul noted that the updated rules provide visibility and clarity, as approvals will no longer depend entirely on travel agency discretion, which sometimes rejects applications due to concerns over misuse or potential fines. “Now residents can bring their families or friends based on clear income criteria, irrespective of nationality,” he said.
By enabling residents to directly sponsor their loved ones, Dubai is expected to see an increase in genuine visitors, with fewer absconding cases. This is likely to boost sectors such as tourism, hospitality, real estate, and retail, which rely heavily on international footfall and family visits.
Supporting Dubai’s Business and Investment Environment
Firosekhan, Operations Manager at Arabian Business Centre in Dubai, highlighted that the new policy will attract a larger pool of visitors, including those seeking to explore investment opportunities, start businesses, or discover job prospects in Dubai.
He added that robust monitoring and enforcement measures will ensure compliance with visa rules, benefiting the integrity of Dubai’s immigration system and supporting businesses that rely on a law-abiding workforce.
“These policies reinforce the UAE’s commitment to being a global hub for tourism, business, and family-friendly living, making Dubai a top destination for international visitors and investors alike,” said Tanriverdi, a Dubai-based immigration expert.
Source : Khaleejtimes
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