From July 2025: 6 key updates every UAE resident must know

Dubai: Once July begins, UAE residents can expect several important developments, including expanded visa-free travel options, a new policy to help quit smoking, flexible summer work schedules, Emiratisation compliance checks, and the start of the school summer holidays. Staying informed will help residents make the most of these updates.

Starting July 1, citizens and residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including the UAE, will be eligible for visa-free entry to Armenia for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

This new rule applies to travellers who hold a valid GCC residency permit with at least six months’ validity from the date of entry into Armenia.

This policy expansion builds on Armenia’s existing visa-waiver agreements: UAE nationals have enjoyed visa-free access since 2017, followed by Qatari nationals in 2019 and Kuwaitis in 2022. The updated entry rules are expected to significantly ease travel for a wider segment of the GCC expat population.

In a move to support smoking cessation efforts, the UAE Cabinet has approved the sale of tobacco-free nicotine pouches, starting July 29. These products deliver nicotine without tobacco or combustion and are considered a cleaner alternative to smoking or vaping.

The approval falls under Cabinet Resolution No. (2) of 2025, which outlines technical regulations for nicotine pouches. These products contain nicotine, flavourings, sweeteners, and plant-based fibres without smoke, vapour, or odour. They are permitted for sale only if they meet specific safety standards set by the government.

Public health experts view these pouches as a harm reduction tool, especially for individuals trying to quit cigarettes or reduce nicotine dependency.

The ‘Our Flexible Summer’ initiative returns this year for Dubai government employees, promoting work-life balance during the peak heat months.

Running from July 1 to September 12, the scheme allows flexible working schedules while maintaining a standard five-day work week.

Each government entity can decide how to implement the initiative internally. It follows a successful pilot in 2024 and aims to improve employee well-being and productivity during the summer period.

Private sector companies in the UAE with 50 or more employees are reminded to meet mid-year Emiratisation targets by July 1. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) will begin compliance checks from this date.

Employers must increase the number of Emiratis in skilled roles by 1 per cent of their skilled workforce for the first half of the year. Companies that fail to meet this requirement will face a fine of Dh9,000 per month for every unfulfilled position.

MOHRE will also verify that Emirati employees are registered with pension funds and that required monthly contributions are being made.

Starting at the end of July 2025, Dubai’s new Health Law will introduce changes to work and residency exams, as well as driving licenses. The law focuses on improving public health by protecting the physical and mental health of young people, addressing harmful behaviors, offering better healthcare for the elderly, and raising awareness about substance abuse.

The law outlines the roles of authorities in regulating health standards, including pre-employment and residency medical exams, driving license issuance, and professional health cards.

It also mandates health protocols for travelers entering Dubai to prevent the spread of diseases, and sets clear responsibilities for government agencies to ensure public health and environmental safety.

Most schools across the UAE will begin their two-month summer break at the end of June or the start of July. According to the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), Dubai’s private schools will commence the break on Monday, June 30, and resume classes on Monday, August 25.

These dates align with academic calendars followed by the majority of schools nationwide.