Explainer · Checked 21 October 2026.
A UAE resident planning a family visit should identify the relationship category before choosing a visa service. The ICP visa service lists minimum monthly sponsor income of AED 4,000 for first-degree relatives, AED 8,000 for second- and third-degree relatives, and AED 15,000 for friends.
ICP's examples place parents, spouses and children in the first group; siblings, grandparents and grandchildren in the second; and uncles, aunts and cousins in the third. A non-relative falls under the friend category. Proof of the relationship is therefore part of the application, not just a description entered in a form.
Prepare the evidence as one consistent file
The federal service lists passport validity of at least six months, UAE-valid health insurance and a return ticket among the relevant visitor requirements. Its resident-sponsored route offers selected stays of 30, 60 or 90 days, with extensions subject to approval and the stated overall limit.
The Dubai government guide also describes single- and multiple-entry options, relationship evidence and a financial guarantee. Before paying, check the precise service chosen by your issuing authority and the terms shown in that application.
Plan around the visitor, not only the salary
Meeting an income band is one eligibility check. Build a simple folder for each traveller containing the identity pages, relationship evidence, proposed dates and accommodation details requested by the service. Where names differ across documents, ask which supporting explanation or attestation the authority requires.
Agree in advance who will monitor the application and answer any request for clarification. If several relatives are arriving on different dates, keep separate reminders for their entry and permitted-stay deadlines. Do not assume that a change to one family member's application updates the others.
Finally, request an itemised quotation if an intermediary is involved. Separating the application fee, refundable guarantee and service charge makes the financial commitment easier to understand. This is a current guide to existing requirements, not an announcement of a new salary rule this week.
Official sources
Sources reviewed on 21 Oct 2026. Requirements can change and depend on your nationality and circumstances. This article is general information, not a personal eligibility assessment.