What are the visa & residency requirements in Al Ain?

"To obtain a visa for Al Ain, a valid passport and other identity documents are generally required. Applications for a visa can be made through a sponsor, such as an employer or a family member already residing in the UAE. The process of this application is done online as well as off-line, depending on the country and size of the application. For those wishing to establish residency in Al Ain, the process can vary depending on the reason and length of the stay. Generally, an individual must apply for an initial residency visa first, which is then followed by a residence permit application. This process can require a valid employment contract, a sponsor, and some documentation related to the purpose of their stay. Once this residency is granted, it must be renewed every year," remarked another expat in Al Ain, the UAE.