Extended residency rights, Extended time outside the UAE, Dubai Police Esaad privilege card & Self-sponsored work or stay or invest or own a property in Dubai.
Golden visas granted in different types for Investors Entrepreneurs, talents, Doctors and scientists, Inventors, Creative people Executive Directors, Athletes & much more. Each has own set of requirement.
We have gathered frequently asked questions from those who obtained golden visa and set these question to address the investors and eligble golden visa holders coming first time to Dubai.
Extended residency rights, Extended time outside the UAE, Dubai Police Esaad privilege card & Self-sponsored work or stay or invest or own a property in Dubai.
This is a long term residence visa that gives foreigners an opportunity to live work and study as they enjoy some benefits that cannot be enjoyed by other visa holders. Some of the best talents that rea eligible for this visa include business people, investors, scientists, inventors, outstanding students and graduates, frontline heroes, humanitarian pioneers among others. This is visa that introduce in 2019 to help the global talents in UAE to stay in the country for a longer period between 5 to 10 years.
Normal visitors visa
Allow expatriates to stay in Dubai 30, 60 or 90 days with extension options forever but costly
Unable to open a local bank account, can open digital bank account such as WIO
Unable to work or get local insurance, Driving license, rent a flat or open a business
Standard residents visa
All expatriates to stay in Dubai 2 or 3 years, end of visas need to go visa medial and get a new visa, Must be in Dubai at least every 180 days
Can open a local bank account
Need a sponsor to get the residence visa, can open a business, rent a flat & take driving license but every 2 or 3 years need to renew
Golden visa
Eligible expatriates can get golden visa straightaway 5 or 10 years. No requirement to stay in Dubai to keep visa active, will be active for 5 or 10 years. Family members get same 10 years
Can open premium bank account, get good insurance package with lower cost
No need a sponsor, can open a business, rent or buy flat or land or office
Arabiers Insights
Infographics explaining the types of UAE visas available and comparison. The investors and talents can identify the real benefits of getting the golden visa in Dubai
Dubai’s economy expanded by an annual 3.3 per cent in the first nine months of last year 2023 , driven by growth in the emirate's tourism and transportation sectors, the latest government data shows.
3.3%
Growth
Dubai's accommodation and food services industry recorded 11.1 per cent growth
11.1%
Growth
Dubai's GDP expanded by 3.2 per cent annually in the first half of last year to Dh223.8 billion ($60.9 billion)
3.2%
Growth
The emirate's real estate sector recorded year-on-year growth of 4 per cent to Dh26.8 billion amid continued demand for both residential and investment opportunities
4%
Growth
Benefits
This is one of the most sought after visa in Dubai since it has some of the best benefits to the holder. They include;
Before issuance of the residence visa you are issued with a 6 months’ multiple entries visa as you proceed with the process.
You do not need a sponsor.
A long term residency of 5 to 10 years.
Ability to sponsor unlimited number of domestic workers.
Ability to stay outside the UAE for more than 6 months and the visa will still be valid.
The privilege to sponsor family members including children and spouses irrespective of their age.
The family members can continue to stay in UAE even after the death of the Golden visa holder as long as the visa is valid.
Golden Visa Types and Requirements
The UAE according to the Cabinet Decision Resolution (56) of 2018 stated 14 types of expatriates that can get the golden visa. Every category of expatriate needs to meet the specific requirements for the specific type of visa. These are :
Investors in public investments
Real estate investors
Entrepreneurs
Outstanding specialized talents
Outstanding Students
Pioneers of humanitarian work
Frontline heroes
Retired
Investors in public investments
You may get granted the Dubai Golden visa which runs for a period of 10 years without a sponsor if you make investments in and investment fund.
Requirement
The person investing needs to submit a letter issued by an accredited investment fund stating or confirming that the said person has deposits of not less than AED 2 million.
Also, the person investing can present a valid commercial or industrial license or a memorandum of association showing that the capital invested is AED 2 million and above.
The person investing needs also to produce a letter from federal tax system confirming that the person pays taxes of at least AED 250000 per year.
The investors should also own the capital invested completely and it should not be a loan.
Last the investor must produce a medical insurance for himself and the family if any.
Real estate investors
The Real estate investors stand a chance of getting a Dubai Golden visa which gives them an opportunity to live in one of the most thriving cities in the world. This visa allows you as a real estate investor to have a reach on one of the most thriving real estate markets as you enjoy long term residency without having to worry of expiry.
If you are an investor who owns a number of property you may be granted a Golden visa for a period of 5 years which is renewable with the same condition. This visa does not need a sponsor.
Requirement
The person making the investment needs to have a documentation from the relevant departments or Emirate that shows they are the actual owners of properties with at least 2 million dirhams’ value.
If the person making investments decides to go for loans they should do so from approved local banks.
The retired investors also are eligible for the Dubai Golden visa as long as they have an investments of 700000 to 1000000 AED in value.
Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs are also eligible to apply and get a Dubai Golden visa for a 5 years’ period. If you are into business and you have an economic project of a technical nature based on the risk and innovations, you can get the visa. Besides the economic projects there are other requirement that you need to meet to get the visa and they include;
Requirement
There should be an UAE auditor report stating the project value is above 500000 dirhams.
The authorities in Dubai should certify that the project nature is of a technical or the future.
You must also have an accredited business incubator in the United Arab Emirates to establish the proposed project the country.
Outstanding specialized talents
The individual with exceptional talents such as innovators, inventors and talents in very important fields such as sports, arts, culture, digital technology can also stand a chance to get the Dubai Golden Visa which will allow them stay in and work in the country for long period.
If you are an individual with these talents you can get the visa irrespective of your educational qualification, salary, employment status or professional level. Some exceptional talents include;
SPECIALIZED TALENTS
Creative people in the fields of culture and art
As a creative in the culture and arts filed who is exceptionally talented you can also get the Dubai Golden visa which will allow you to stay in the country as a residence.
You must get a letter of approval from the department of culture and arts in the respective emirate.
SPECIALIZED TALENTS
Doctors and scientists
You must get an approval Letter from Ministry of Health and & letter of recommendation from Emirates Council of Scientists.
If you are an experience doctors or an established researcher who has achieved so much in your field you are eligible for the Dubai Golden visa as long as you receive a recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council.
The scientist should also have attained a PhD or master’s degrees in areas of engineering, life sciences, technology or natural sciences from recognized universities in the world.
SPECIALIZED TALENTS
Athletes
Talented athletes are also qualifying to apply for the Golden visa. If you are good in a sport, you should consider applying for the visa.
You need a recommendation letter from relevant authority such as sports council or General Sports Authority.
SPECIALIZED TALENTS
Inventors
If you are an accomplished professional who has specialized in various fields in engineering and science you qualify for a Dubai Golden visa as long as you can demonstrate that you are a valuable asset to the UAE.
Inventors are eligible to get a Dubai Golden visa as long as they meet the requirement.
One of the requirements for inventors to get a Dubai Golden visa is they must have recommendation letter from the ministry of economy which confirms that their patent or invention adds value to the UAE economy.
SPECIALIZED TALENTS
Specialists in engineering and science
If you are an accomplished professional who has specialized in various fields in engineering and science you qualify for a Dubai Golden visa as long as you can demonstrate that you are a valuable asset to the UAE.
You must produce a copy of bachelors or master’s degree that is certified by Ministry of Education and a work contract.
SPECIALIZED TALENTS
Executive Directors
If you are an experienced executive director holding senior position is a recognized institution and with the relevant academic qualifications, you can also get the Dubai Golden visa.
You must get a copy of university degree accredited by Ministry of Education with educational attainment not less than a bachelor's degree.
At least five years’ experience in the same role with a letter indicating so. A work contract & salary of AED 50000 with a certificate of proof.
SPECIALIZED TALENTS
Doctors and scientists
You must get an approval Letter from Ministry of Health and & letter of recommendation from Emirates Council of Scientists.
If you are an experience doctors or an established researcher who has achieved so much in your field you are eligible for the Dubai Golden visa as long as you receive a recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council.
The scientist should also have attained a PhD or master’s degrees in areas of engineering, life sciences, technology or natural sciences from recognized universities in the world.
SPECIALIZED TALENTS
Creative people in the fields of culture and art
As a creative in the culture and arts filed who is exceptionally talented you can also get the Dubai Golden visa which will allow you to stay in the country as a residence.
You must get a letter of approval from the department of culture and arts in the respective emirate.
SPECIALIZED TALENTS
Athletes
Talented athletes are also qualifying to apply for the Golden visa. If you are good in a sport, you should consider applying for the visa.
You need a recommendation letter from relevant authority such as sports council or General Sports Authority.
SPECIALIZED TALENTS
Inventors
If you are an accomplished professional who has specialized in various fields in engineering and science you qualify for a Dubai Golden visa as long as you can demonstrate that you are a valuable asset to the UAE.
Inventors are eligible to get a Dubai Golden visa as long as they meet the requirement.
One of the requirements for inventors to get a Dubai Golden visa is they must have recommendation letter from the ministry of economy which confirms that their patent or invention adds value to the UAE economy.
SPECIALIZED TALENTS
Specialists in engineering and science
If you are an accomplished professional who has specialized in various fields in engineering and science you qualify for a Dubai Golden visa as long as you can demonstrate that you are a valuable asset to the UAE.
You must produce a copy of bachelors or master’s degree that is certified by Ministry of Education and a work contract.
SPECIALIZED TALENTS
Executive Directors
If you are an experienced executive director holding senior position is a recognized institution and with the relevant academic qualifications, you can also get the Dubai Golden visa.
You must get a copy of university degree accredited by Ministry of Education with educational attainment not less than a bachelor's degree.
At least five years’ experience in the same role with a letter indicating so. A work contract & salary of AED 50000 with a certificate of proof.
Outstanding Students
High school students 5 years golden visa
University students 10 years golden visa
Outstanding high school Students & university student are given golden visa in Dubai. If you are a high school student and a national-level topper, (with a minimum grade of 95 per cent in public or private secondary school) you may be granted a Golden visa for 5 years without a sponsor, subject to submission of a recommendation letter from Ministry of Education (Emirates Schools Establishment). Duration of the Golden visa for students is 5 years and may be extended if he/she is enrolled in one of the majors/colleges in the country that requires a study period of more than five years.
If you are an outstanding university student, you may be granted a Golden visa for a period of 10 years without a sponsor, provided that the university must be rated either A or B class by Ministry of Education. A recommendation letter from the university or an accredited graduation certificate or an accredited academic record stating that the student’s cumulative GPA is not less than 3.5 for A class universities and 3.8 for B class universities is submitted it has not been more than 2 years since you graduated. Outstanding students of foreign universities may be granted a Golden visa for a period of 10 years without a sponsor, provided that.
High school students 5 years golden visa
University students 10 years golden visa
The university is rated among the best 100 universities global according to the rating system recognized by Ministry of Education
The student’s cumulative GPA is not less than 3.5
It has not been more than 2 years since you graduated
Graduation certificate is accredited by the Ministry of Education
Pioneers of humanitarian work
Pioneers of humanitarian activities are also eligible for the 10 years Dubai Golden visa. The listed conditions should be met by this group of people for them to be granted the visa;
You must have a 5 years working experience as a member or employee in regional or international organizations with outstanding record.
The person should have recognition awards from either local or international organization that is involved in humanitarian activities.
The person should have a working experience with civil organizations with public interest for at least 5 years.
The person is a founder of program that deals with humanitarian activities with a support value of at least 2 million Dirhams.
Frontline heroes
The frontline heroes are eligible for a Dubai Golden visa as long as they produce a recommendation from a recognized authority.
Some of the frontline heroes include nurses, pharmacologists, medical assistants, lab technicians and other categories that are recognized by the frontline heroes’ office.
The Price of Dubai Golden Visa
You might be in Dubai or outside Dubai and you are seeking to get the Golden visa. If you are not in Dubai but you are looking for a way to get in Dubai and then follow up on the Golden visa you have a number of options to get in Dubai.
On arrival tourist visa – If you are a passport holder of the countries that rea allowed an arrival visa, then all you need is to get a ticket and enter Dubai. These nationalities do not need to pay for anything and they will be granted the tourist visa at the point of entry.
Prepaid tourist visa – As a passport holder of countries that are not eligible for on arrival visa you need to apply for prepaid tourist visa before coming to Dubai. All you need to do is to reach out to reputable local travel agencies such as Arabiers. You can apply for different kind of visa according to your choice and needs. The available visas include a 30 days’ single entry visa at 489 AED and 30 days’ multiple entry visa at990 AED. If you want a 60 days visa it costs 689 AED for a single entry and 1190 AED for a multiple entry visa.
6 multiple entry permit - This will allow you to finalize the Golden residency visa process and it I valid for 6 months. This permit ill costs you between 1300 to 1400 AED.
The cost of Dubai Golden Visa is dependent on the number of paperwork, medical type either the normal or VIP, approval fee for relevant departments, attestation fee among others. Below are some of the expenses incurred for different categories of Golden visa services;
Medical examination (For all)
Business incubator Fee (Entrepreneurs)
Residency permit confirmation fee (For all)
Fee for confirmation of residency permit (For all)
Land Department (Real estate investors)
Administrative fee (For all)
Ministry of Health and Prevention (Doctors and scientists)
Emirates Council of Scientists (Doctors and scientists)
Ministry of Education (Outstanding Students)
Certificate attestations (Outstanding Students)
Total to get the golden visa for one adult will would cost around
10,000 to 13,000 AED
Dubai Golden Visa process
Some of the applicants do the application living in Dubai while other are outside and this is what differentiates the process.
Golden Visa Process for Those in Dubai
Test for eligibility
Ensure that you qualify for the Golden visa before applying. Check all the conditions and ensure that you meet them. To ease this, you can contact the Arabiers teams to help you in the process.
Select right category
Based on your skills and qualification determine the category you fit best such as investor, talent student, among others.
Prepare needed Documents
After you have settled on the category ensure that you gather all the supporting documents that are required in the area.
Pay the Service Fee
You pay the service fee after submitting paper work for processing. This fee helps to cover the cost of processing and the Arabiers team offers different ways of paying.
Submit Application
Arabiers teams will help you in submitting the document to relevant authorities in Dubai.
Biometric Data
Ensure that you attend any appointment required for collection of biometric data such as fingerprints and facial recognition.
Medical Examination
Ensure that you get the medical examination and they meet the required standards.
Wait for Approval
As the visa is getting process, you wait for the process to be completed. The process might take time but this depends on the department and category.
Receive Golden Visa
Upon approval, you will receive your Dubai Golden Visa which will grant you Dubai residency with a specified period.
Get your Emirates ID
The Emirates ID is identity card issued by federal authority and it helps one be able to access services in the country.
Get the UAE pass
This is a secure digital ID that allow you to access the various services the government provides. It allows you to log into the government sites through the internet without having to visit various service centers.
Enjoy Benefits
You can n ow enjoy the benefits of the Dubai Golden visa such as education, health and work at one of the best cities in the world.
Golden Visa Process from Outside Dubai
Plan your visit to Dubai
You can get an on arrival visitor visa if you are eligible or apply for any of the prepaid visit visa.
Eligibility Check
Ensure that you meet all the criteria to be eligible for a Golden visa. You can consult the Arabiers team for more information.
Select the Appropriate Category
Choose the appropriate category that best suits you based on your qualifications.
Prepare the Required Documents
Make sure that you obtain all the necessary documents in your chosen category.
Pay the Service Fee
Once you have submitted the necessary document for processing ensure that you pay the service fee. This fee helps to cover the cost of processing and the Arabiers team offers different ways of paying.
Submit Application
Arabiers teams will help you in submitting the document to relevant authorities in Dubai.
Biometric Data
Ensure that you attend any appointment required for collection of biometric data such as fingerprints and facial recognition.
Medical Examination
Ensure that you get the medical examination and they meet the required standards.
Wait for Approval
As the visa is getting process, you wait for the process to be completed. The process might take time but this depends on the department and category.
Receive Golden Visa
Upon approval, you will receive your Dubai Golden Visa which will grant you Dubai residency with a specified period.
Get your Emirates ID
The Emirates ID is identity card issued by federal authority and it helps one be able to access services in the country.
Get the UAE pass
This is a secure digital ID that allow you to access the various services the government provides. It allows you to log into the government sites through the internet without having to visit various service centers.
Enjoy Benefits
You can n ow enjoy the benefits of the Dubai Golden visa such as education, health and work at one of the best cities in the world.
Legal and Regulatory of Dubai Golden Visa
Below are some of the legality and regulatory information regarding the Dubai Golden Visa raging from acquiring, renewing and sponsoring family members.
Validity Period : The Golden visa normally offers residency for a longer period compared to other visas. The visa validity period rangers from 5 to 10 years depending on the category and the applicant’s circumstances.
Renewal Process : It is important for every holder of this visa to understand the criterial for the renewal so as to continue holding the visa. The holder should ensure they take the necessary actions to renew the visa. Some of the requirements for renewal may be such as continued investments, work and other conditions.
Compliance Obligations : Every holder of Golden visa is expected to adhere to all the laws and regulations such as taxation, residency, business among others. Failure to comply may lead to visa revocation or penalties.
Family Sponsorship : If you are a holder of Dubai Golden visa you ate capable of sponsoring your immediate family members for residency. The Dubai immigrations has however laid down some procedure and requirements that must be followed for family sponsorship.
Health Insurance : The holders of this visa may be required to have a valid health insurance coverage during their stay Dubai. This helps ensure access ton health services.
FAQ
The Golden visa takes 2 to 3 weeks to process in Dubai.
If you are neither of the two, you need to check other categories such as athletes, professional and choose one that suits you to be eligible.
Yes, every category has its defined minimum investment requirement.
Yes, you can include them by sponsoring them once you have secured the golden visa.
Yes, there are requirement for renewing Golden visa such as continued investment, continued employment and other conditions as per immigration regulations.
No, you do not have to be insured to qualify for the visa.
If the application is not completed with the needed data within days from the return a date the application will be rejected. If the application is submitted with incomplete data, it is rejected and if this happen three times it is rejected. The authorities do not give rejection reasons.
You can only get the refund for health insurance fee and other deposits once the main application has been rejected. Below is the procedure of refunds;
The refunds for the fees paid will be processed through the credit card that was originally used during payment with a six months’ period from the submission date. If the conditions for refund are met the applicant may request cheque or bank transfer in a bank within UAE.
If the main submission date exceeds six months, the refund will be processed through the cheque or bank transfer in a bank located in UAE. This will be available only for up to 5 years from the refund entitlement date to facilitate the refund process.
