UAE Announces New 3-Year AI Specialist Visa Category for Tech Professionals

The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), in coordination with the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA), has announced a new visa category specifically targeting artificial intelligence professionals. The 3-year AI Specialist Visa is part of the UAE's broader strategy to position itself as a global AI hub under the UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031.

The announcement was made on 8 March 2026 during the World Government Summit in Dubai. The visa is designed to make it easier for AI talent to relocate to the UAE without requiring traditional employer sponsorship — similar in concept to the existing Golden Visa but specifically tailored for AI and machine learning professionals.

The AI Specialist Visa targets professionals working in core AI and machine learning disciplines. Based on the announcement, eligible applicants must meet at least one of the following criteria:

• At least 5 years of professional experience in artificial intelligence, machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, computer vision, or robotics.
• A PhD or equivalent doctoral qualification in computer science, data science, AI, or a closely related field from an accredited institution.
• Published research in recognised AI/ML journals or conferences (e.g., NeurIPS, ICML, CVPR, ACL).
• Current or recent employment at a recognised technology company or AI research lab with a minimum salary of AED 30,000 per month.

The UAE already offers a 10-year Golden Visa for exceptional talent, but that programme has broader criteria covering investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, and outstanding students. The new AI Specialist Visa is narrower in scope (specifically AI/ML professionals) but more accessible — it requires 5 years of experience rather than exceptional achievements, and the salary threshold is lower than some Golden Visa categories.

For AI professionals who do not yet qualify for a Golden Visa, this new 3-year category provides a dedicated pathway to live and work in the UAE. It also acts as a stepping stone — after 3 years, holders may be eligible to apply for a longer-term Golden Visa based on their UAE-based achievements and contributions.

Applications for the AI Specialist Visa are expected to open in Q2 2026. If you are an AI or machine learning professional interested in relocating to Dubai, now is the time to prepare your documentation. We recommend gathering your professional experience records, academic credentials, and any published research well in advance.

OraVisa will publish a detailed application guide once the official application process and requirements are confirmed by ICA. In the meantime, if you are already in the UAE on a visit or tourist visa and want to explore your options for switching to a longer-term category, we can advise on the best approach.