UAE declares major visa reforms - new remote work visa and multiple-entry tourist visas

The UAE to grant Remote Work Visas that would enable employees to be UAE residents and work remotely for any company across the world. The UAE Cabinet also approved the issuance of multiple-entry tourist visas to all nationals during a cabinet meeting chaired by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai on Sunday.

Validated for a year, the remote work visa holders can sponsor themselves and enter and work in the UAE, given that they comply with terms and conditions issued with the visa. The introduction of a virtual work permit comes as a part of making UAE a global destination where people can live safely with the best facilities in the world. As witnessed in the pandemic era, this move will also enhance digitization in all major sectors, with employees developing their digital skills.

Meanwhile, the significant alterations to the tourist entry visas include multi-travel without a guarantor for the visa. The visa bearer can enter and exit the country as many times as needed and is open to all nationalities. The visa will be validated for five years, allowing the holder to remain in the country and extend another 90 days every visit during the visa valid time.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum wrote on Twitter after the cabinet meeting that the project aims to strengthen the reputation of the UAE as the global financial capital.

Another important decision approved by the Cabinet meeting is to increase the efficiency of the transport industry and construction sectors to 40 per cent by developing a national system for hydrogen power-driven vehicles and a national water and energy demand management programme.

The UAE homes around 200 nationalities, making UAE home to one of the world's highest percentage of expatriates. UAE's PM reaffirmed that the country's development journey continues as changes will be an incessant process for the better.