Dubai and UAE set out eight visa and residency updates for 2026

Dubai and the wider UAE have continued to refine their visa and residency system in 2026, with eight major updates set out for people living in, moving to or visiting the country. The changes affect tourists, property owners, Golden Visa holders and people travelling across the Gulf. The eight updates cover both Dubai and the rest of the UAE, and apply to residents as well as short-term visitors. The eight changes are presented as the key visa and residency developments of 2026 for residents, newcomers and visitors alike.