Abu Dhabi, Apr 1 (IANS): The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced new visa guidelines as per which family members of foreign citizens, including Indians, working in the country will now be able to get an "expat visa" if the working relative fulfils an income criteria.

The UAE Cabinet on Sunday adopted a decision to amend provisions of the resolution on sponsoring of foreign workers to their families in the country, WAM news agency reported.

According to a statement by the General Secretariat of the Cabinet, the amended provisions now indicate "income" as a requirement for sponsoring family members, as opposed to the previously listed "professions" which allowed workers to sponsor their families.

The amendment was in line with international developments and accordance with best practices, it said.

"The decision aims at enhancing family stability of foreign workers and social cohesion, as well as attracting highly skilled workers while maintaining a healthy balance between professional and personal life," the statement added.

The Cabinet decision, according to the statement, called on relevant government entities to conduct studies to assess and enhance the services provided to residents, including aspects of education and health, and encourage the active participation of their family member in the job market as an alternative to recruiting new workers from abroad, within the existing policies and regulations.

Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation Nasir Bin Thani Al Hamli said that the Cabinet amendments will undoubtedly strengthen family ties of workers, reflect positively on the labour market, boost productivity and support the national economy.