US Citizens (for the time being) can continue to get a Visa on Arrival. The previously announced AED100 visa fee has been put on hold until they figure out how to collect it (??? if anything, the government is very proficient in taking our cash, so not sure why the holdup).
The nationalities that do not get visa on arrival (most countries) are the ones really getting screwed by the new rules.
1. Need proof of health insurance. (Not sure how you're supposed to prove that or what to do if you don't have it
2. No more 'expedited visas' (issued in 3 days or less). So that means if you want to go for a weekend to Oman, then you will have to stay there for a week or two until you get another visa. A step back in evolution.
3. AED1000 deposit for all visas, refundalble when you leave. Not sure how you are going to get it back after you've left the country. The government, no doubt, hopes that some will 'forget' about their AED1000 left in their care to earn interest.
That's my interpretation of the new visa rules.
Subject to change without notice.