The UAE has reduced the validity of residency visas for free zones from three years to up to two years.
Individual free zones have been updating their clients via circulars about the new rule that's effective from October 3.
It said all residence visas that are currently under process will reflect the new validity.
Meanwhile, residence visas that have already been issued will remain valid for the three-year time frame until renewal.
'The Yard' to become Palm Jebel Ali’s first retail, lifestyle hub
Dubai Retail has announced The Yard, set to become Palm Jebel Ali’s first retail and lifestyle destination.
Apple debuts passport-shaped foldable phone Duo
Apple on Wednesday unveiled a foldable phone called Duo, introducing the biggest change in years in the company's flagship product.
Dubai Holding signs single largest building contract valued at AED 5 billion
Dubai Holding has signed the single largest building contract valued at AED 5 billion for the Group's new headquarters and Jumeirah Residences Emirates Towers.
DP World strengthens Kenya commitment with new industrial park
DP World and Kenya-based GulfCap Africa have signed an agreement to develop the Mombasa Industrial Park, a planned 222-hectare Special Economic Zone in Kenya.
Trade through Dubai’s Hatta crossing surges 175%
Dubai’s Hatta Customs Crossing recorded a major increase in trade during the first half of 2026, with the value of goods passing through the crossing rising 175 per cent year-on-year.
