UAE Golden Visa Ultimate Guide

The Golden Visa program is a strategic move by the government of the United Arab Emirates to create a stable and attractive environment for various purposes. One of the primary goals is to attract specialists to establish a highly skilled and competitive labor market and attract investments. 

In this article, we will consider the process of obtaining a golden visa in detail, its advantages and disadvantages, the conditions for obtaining it, the necessary documents, and the cost and processing time. 

What is the Golden Visa UAE?

A gold visa is a long-term residency granted to foreigners with outstanding achievements, significant investments, or high professional skills. Standard visas are given for 2–3 years, while the gold visa is granted for 5–10 years. 

An important feature of the UAE is the need for a local sponsor to obtain residency or a work permit. This is most often an employer for an employee, and for a student, this is a UAE educational institution. The holder of a golden visa not only does not need a sponsor but can also act in such a role.

The government of some emirates gives some advantages to those who get a golden visa from them. For example, the initial payment in real estate to obtain a golden visa in Dubai decreased from two to one million AED. In this emirate, a person can also get an esaad card for golden visa holders. In Abu Dhabi, the golden visa is issued for 10 years, regardless of how it is obtained. 

The Esaad Card is a loyalty and discount program launched by the Dubai Police in March 2017. It aims to enhance the quality of life for its cardholders by providing a wide range of benefits and discounts across various sectors, including retail, hospitality, healthcare, education, entertainment, and travel. The card is available to employees of participating government departments and certain private sector companies, as well as Golden Visa holders in the UAE. The card can be used both physically and digitally through a mobile app, offering convenience and ease of access to its benefits.

UAE Golden Visa Benefits

There are some advantages and disadvantages to the UAE golden visa, especially in comparison with other visas. For example, holders of the golden visa can buy real estate in designated freehold and non-freehold zones in the UAE. It is also possible to set up a company under full foreign ownership.  

Who Is Eligible to Apply for a UAE Golden Visa?

In the UAE, a golden visa can be obtained by investors, outstanding people and specialists. Particularly in demand are internationally recognized scientists and those whose achievements have been recognized with international awards. Conventionally, we can distinguish two main categories:

Golden Visa for Investment

Investment is the main option to get a golden visa in the UAE. Certain investments in the country's economy entitle the investor to claim to stay and work there for 5 to 10 years. There are three main types of investments:

• Investments in funds. The minimum investment amount of AED 2 million ($544,000) in UAE-accredited investment funds entitles the investor to a 10-year golden visa.
• Golden visa for property owners. Owning one or more properties worth AED 2 million ($544,000) entitles investors to a golden visa for five years. The purchase of real estate with the help of a loan must be possible only if it is executed in certain local banks approved by the competent authority of the UAE. You can buy a property with a mortgage, but the down payment must be at least AED 2 million ($544,000). The rest can be borrowed on a loan or mortgage.    
• Golden visa for entrepreneurs. Entrepreneurs can obtain a golden visa for five years. The condition is possessing a technical or promising economic project based on risk and innovation. Its value must be at least AED 500 thousand ($136,100), and the Emirate authorities must confirm that the project is important and promising for the country.

Outstanding Talent

The golden visa program entitles outstanding individuals and professionals in their field to live and work in the country for 10 years. However, their achievements must be confirmed by the relevant institution or ministry in the UAE.

Eligible talents:

• Highly professional doctors.
• Scientists. 
• Talents in culture and arts.
• Inventors. 
• Executive directors.
• Athletes.
• Outstanding students and scholars.
• Pioneers of humanitarian work.
• Holders of scientific degrees and professionals in science and technology. In the presence of a work contract and a copy of a bachelor's or master's degree certified by the UAE Ministry of Education. Preference is given to professionals employed in: epidemiology and virology; artificial intelligence development and training; big data analysis; computer engineering; electronic engineering; software development; electrical engineering; genetic engineering and biotechnology.

Also, on the recommendation of the competent authority, the UAE Golden Resident Visa is issued to people who have shown outstanding abilities in crisis situations such as pandemics, natural disasters, and man-made disasters. Frontline heroes include nurses, physician assistants, laboratory technicians, pharmacologists, and other staff approved by the Office of Frontline Heroes.

Applicants may include their spouses and children in the golden visa application if they provide documents confirming kinship (marriage, birth certificates). The applicant's family must also undergo a medical examination in the UAE.

Domestic workers can also be included in the visa if they have a valid labor contract and have passed a medical examination.

Note. In July 2021, the United Arab Emirates announced 100,000 golden visas for the world's top programmers. The program aims to attract professionals in software development and artificial intelligence. 

UAE Golden Visa Requirements

You must collect documents and fulfill several conditions to apply for a gold visa to the UAE. The main ones are a copy of a passport that has been valid for at least 6 months, a 45 mm by 35 mm photo or a digital photo on a white background, and health insurance issued by a UAE insurance company. Other requirements vary depending on the grounds for the visa.

Eligibility Conditions for Public Investors

A renewable golden visa by investment is provided to investors for 10 years if they deposit AED 2 million in an accredited investment fund in the UAE. As long as the investment is not loan-financed, they may also establish a new or existing company in the UAE with a minimum capital of AED 2 million. They may also become partners in an established one with a minimum share value of AED 2 million. Other requirements for public Investors include:

• The investor must fully own the invested capital.
• A valid commercial or industrial license for the business in which the investment is made.
• An annual payment of at least AED 250,000 to the UAE government.
• Proof of medical insurance for the investor and their family.
• The investor should not have any outstanding debts in the UAE.
• The investment should be retained for at least three years.

Requirements for Real Estate Investors

A golden visa for real estate investors requires investors to own one or more properties in the UAE with a total value of at least AED 2 million ($545,000)​. The property must be retained for at least three years. Selling the property before this period could result in the visa being revoked​. They also need: 

• Certificate of ownership or original real estate sale contract in the UAE.
• Documents confirming the minimum investment in real estate for AED 2,000,000 ($545,000).
• A document from the bank confirming that the minimum required amount is free of encumbrances (not subject to any loans or mortgages).

Criteria for Entrepreneurs and Startup Owners

Startup investors can qualify for the Golden Visa in several ways. They may invest in startups that are registered within the UAE and fall under the small and medium enterprises (SME) category, with annual revenues of at least AED 1 million. The idea or project must be approved by the Ministry of Economy, a local competent authority, or an accredited business incubator in the UAE​​.

Founders or co-founders can qualify for the Golden Visa if their previous entrepreneurial project was sold for a minimum value of AED 7 million ($1.9 million).

Entrepreneurs can obtain a Golden Visa for business owners for five years if they own a technical or future-oriented economic project valued at least AED 500,000, emphasizing risk and innovation. 

This means that projects should include innovative approaches, technologies, or ideas that can make a significant effects in their field. It can be something completely new to the market or a significant improvement to existing solutions. Innovations can be related to a product, technology, business model, or even management practices. 

The term 'risks' refers to the uncertainty and potential difficulties involved in bringing a project to fruition. These risks stem from pursuing ideas that may not guarantee success in the market. Additionally, risk is often associated with the financial investments required to develop and launch new technologies or products.

They need an approval letter from an auditor in the UAE verifying the project's value, a letter from the emirate's authorities confirming the project's innovative nature, and approval from an accredited UAE business incubator to establish the project.​

Criteria for specialists in engineering and science

To qualify for a Golden Visa for professionals, applicants must have a degree in engineering or science. A bachelor's degree is usually required, but higher qualifications, such as a master's or doctoral degree, may be helpful. Extensive work experience will also increase their chances of obtaining a visa. While specific years of experience may vary, a minimum of five years of relevant work experience is often required. Additional requirements are:

• Obtain an endorsement from relevant UAE authorities.
• Provide academic transcripts, experience certificates, and endorsement letters.

Criteria for students

High school students who achieve high academic performance, with scores of at least 95% of the maximum possible, can receive a visa for five years. For example, if the maximum grade for a course or exam is 100, students must score at least 95 points. Under a ten-point grading system, the minimum required grade is 9.5. This visa may be extended if the student enrolls in a UAE educational institution for a program that extends beyond five years.

Students are granted a visa for 10 years if they have high academic performance in an A or B-grade institution. It should be assessed by the UAE Ministry of Education or by an educational institution included in the top 100 universities in the world (according to the rating system recognized by the Ministry of Education). The overall GPA must be at least 3.5–3.8, and no more than two years have passed since graduation. Students may also need:

• Obtain recommendations from their educational institution.
• Provide academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and awards.

Requirements for exceptional talents

Exceptional talents in culture, art, science, medicine, research, innovation, sports, and others may receive a Golden visa for 10 years. They must possess a high level of skill or talent recognized by a relevant UAE government entity. Other requirements include:

• Demonstration of significant achievements in their field.
• Recommendation letters, awards, or certificates of achievement.
• Evidence of potential contribution to the UAE’s development.

Criteria for executives

A golden visa for executives is issued to professionals, provided they have a graduate degree from a university accredited by the UAE Ministry of Education and at least a Bachelor's degree. A valid work contract and proof of at least five years of experience in a similar position. Golden visa salary requirements include at least AED 30,000 ($8166) during the last two years.

Requirements for scientists

Scientists can obtain a golden visa with a letter of recommendation from the Emirates Council of Scholars or a letter from the Secretariat of the Mohammed bin Rashid Medal for the Medal of Scientific Achievement award. Additional requirements for scientists include:

• Conduct significant research in a field prioritized by the UAE.
• Hold a PhD or equivalent degree.
• Have a substantial number of published research papers.
• Receive recognition or awards from international organizations.
• Submit research publications, academic certificates, and awards.

Eligibility conditions for skilled IT professionals

The golden visa for IT professionals requires a bachelor's degree in a relevant IT field from an accredited institution. The UAE's Ministry of Education must recognize and authenticate the degree. Relevant experience would be an advantage. Required criterias also include:

• Possess specialized skills in cybersecurity, AI, and software development.
• Have substantial work experience in the IT field.
• Hold relevant certifications or degrees.
• Obtain endorsement from a recognized UAE IT authority.
• Provide professional certificates, work experience letters, and endorsement documents.

Requirements for Humanitarian Pioneers

The most interesting category is humanitarian pioneers. These are usually volunteers engaged in humanitarian work. They can get a golden visa for 10 years. At the same time, the UAE government regulates various types of humanitarian activities. To be considered a pioneer, you must meet one of the following criteria:

• Be an outstanding member of an organization engaged in international and regional humanitarian work. The period of service must be at least five years. Work in civic associations and public interest organizations is also considered.
• Be the recipient of a commendation award from a local, regional, or international humanitarian organization.
• Sponsor humanitarian activities with a minimum of AED two million equivalent.

Eligibility conditions for doctors and nurses

Golden visa for doctors includes a requirement for holding a valid license to practice medicine in the UAE. This usually involves passing the relevant examinations and meeting the standards set by UAE health authorities such as the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP), Abu Dhabi Department of Health (DOH), or Dubai Health Authority (DHA). They receive 10 year golden visa for health workers if they meet the following requirements:

• Have significant experience in their field, preferably in the UAE.
• Work in specialties that are in high demand in the UAE.
• Provide medical or nursing licenses, work experience certificates, and proof of employment.

Golden visa application for nurses requires recommendations from a competent authority, such as the Frontline Heroes Office, acknowledging their significant contributions during crises.

Requirements for exceptional coders

Unlike IT professionals, exceptional coders can be self-taught without professional education. Thus, the UAE attracts professionals and people with exceptional talent. However, proof of such a talent requires confirmation from the relevant authorities or recognized organizations. Exceptional coders should meet the following criterias:

• Possess advanced coding skills and proficiency in programming languages.
• Have a portfolio of significant coding projects or contributions.
• Obtain endorsements from relevant UAE tech organizations.
• Provide coding portfolios, endorsement letters, and professional certificates.

Eligibility conditions for preachers and religious researchers

The UAE Golden Visa program includes a category for preachers and religious researchers to attract and retain individuals who contribute significantly to religious and cultural scholarship. Applicants must hold advanced degrees (Master's or Ph.D.) in religious studies, theology, or related fields from recognized institutions, and the degrees must be accredited by the UAE's Ministry of Education​​. The requirements for golden visa are:

• Hold advanced degrees in religious studies or related fields.
• Have substantial experience in preaching or religious research.
• Obtain endorsements from recognized UAE religious authorities.
• Provide academic certificates, experience letters, and endorsement documents.

In 2024, UAE golden visa requirements include preachers, imams, muezzins, muftis, and religious researchers who have completed at least 20 years of service in their respective religious roles within the UAE.

Golden Visa expanded categories for Abu Dhabi

The Abu Dhabi Golden Visa program has introduced several expanded categories beyond the standard ones. However, one of the basic requirements is compliance with levels 1-2 according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) categorization.

Expansion includes:

• Senior scholars and clerics. Recognized senior scholars and religious clerics must be employed in the UAE, hold a position classified by MoHRE, and possess at least a bachelor’s degree with a minimum monthly salary of AED 30,000 ($8166).
• Specialists in various fields. Science, engineering, health, education, information technology, and social sciences. The requirement is a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in the relevant field, a valid work contract, and approval from relevant UAE authorities.
• Executive directors. Must have an accredited university degree (at least a bachelor’s), a minimum of five years of experience in the same position, a monthly salary of at least AED 50,000 ($13,610), and a valid employment contract.
• Sports professionals. General recommendation from the General Sports Authority or Abu Dhabi Sports Council, absence of doping penalties, and significant contributions to international competitions. Professional coaches must have coached a team or player for at least three consecutive sports seasons with a significant impact.

Golden Visa UAE Fees

Various fees should be considered when applying for a visa, but compared to the size of the investment, they are insignificant. It is highly recommended that you use the services of specialists to ensure that your application is processed correctly and all regulations are meticulously followed. Golden Visa consultants can navigate the bureaucratic complexities of the process, saving you time. 

Real estate investors. In addition to the basic investment amount of AED 2 million ($544,000) or more, investors pay: 

• A registration fee to the Land Registry Department of 4% of the property's value.
• An administrative fee of AED 580 ($158).
• Notary services, the fee for which varies depending on the value of the property and ranges from AED 2000 to 4000 ($544 to $1088).
• The real estate agent commission is 2% of the property value.
• Property appraisal costs are approximately AED 2500 ($680), but highly depend on the appraisal company.
• Property insurance depends on the property's value and is approximately AED 1000–2000 ($272–544) annually.
• Municipal transfer fees range from 4–6% of the property value, depending on the Emirate.

Investors in business or public funds. The following costs supplement the basic investment amount of AED 2 million:

• Company incorporation costs include license fees (AED 10,000–15,000, or $2722–4083) and company registration fees (AED 7000–10,000, or $1905–2722).
• Services of lawyers and consultants averaging AED 10,000–20,000 ($2722–5444) to support the registration golden visa process and paperwork.
• Bank account opening fees depend on the bank and range from AED 5000 to AED 10,000 ($1361 to $2722). 
• Rent for office space is approximately AED 15,000–50,000 ($4083–$13,600) annually.
• Annual tax and accounting services of AED 10,000–20,000 ($2722–5444).

Entrepreneurs. Businessmen who have contributed at least AED 500,000 ($136,000) to the project must also pay: 

• A license fee of AED 10,000–15,000 ($2722–4083) depends on the business type and jurisdiction.
• Company registration fee averaging between AED 7000 and AED 10,000 ($1905–2722).
• Office rental fees are AED 15,000–50,000 ($4083–$13,600) annually.
• Employee visa fees: about AED 5000 ($1361) per employee, including golden visa medical tests and ID cards.
• Audit costs range from AED 5000–15,000 ($1361–$4083), depending on business volume and requirements.

Base fees:

• Golden visa application fee: AED 100 ($27).
• Document issuance fee: AED 100 ($27) for each year of visa validity (AED 1000 ($270) for a 10-year visa).
• Online service fee: AED 150 ($41). 
• An in-country fee of AED 500 ($136) if the applicant is already in the UAE.

Here's how much a gold visa costs in Dubai, specifically all the associated costs of processing it through the Land Department:

• Medical examination: AED 700 ($191).
• Golden visa Emirates ID card application fee for 10 years: AED 1153 ($313.85).
• AED 2657 ($723.24) for a 10-year residence permit.
• Land Department Commission: AED 4020 ($1094.24).
• Administrative Fee: AED 1155 ($314.39). 

In total, a golden visa costs AED 9685 ($2636.26).  

A 10-year golden visa UAE costs AED 5668.50 ($1542.97) for a family or parents, and another AED 320 ($87) to open up the sponsorship option.

Visa fees

Golden Visa Validity and Extension

There are two types of golden visas by time of validity: for 5 years and 10 years. However, there is a recent trend to eliminate the five-year visa. Abu Dhabi gold visas for investors and outstanding professionals of all types will be issued for 10 years.

Gold visa holders must have lived in the UAE for at least 30 years to apply for naturalization. Since such a visa lasts between 5 and 10 years, the process involves multiple visa renewals. An important prerequisite for this is eligibility. For example, for investors, it is enough to maintain investments for three years and have a valid labor contract for specialists. 

When obtaining UAE citizenship, it is necessary to renounce the previous citizenship. This can be done by applying to the consulate/embassy of the country of citizenship for renunciation of citizenship. After receiving a confirmation of renunciation of citizenship, provide it to the UAE Department of Citizenship and Residency and undergo the naturalization procedure.

How quickly a golden visa is processed: 

How To Apply for a UAE Golden Visa 

Before learning how to apply for a UAE golden visa, it is important to consider local cultural characteristics, including attitudes toward rushing. Residents of the country prefer a more measured and relaxed approach to life and affairs. Therefore, applicants are advised to have patience, respect local traditions, and plan their time with possible delays in mind.

How to apply for a golden visa in the UAE? The process starts with collecting documents. After that, they should be nostrified, i.e., translated into English or Arabic and notarized. For investors, it is necessary to prepare financial reports, business plans, recommendations, and audit results confirming compliance with financial criteria. Criminal records and medical certificates are also included in the list of required documents.

Application Submission. The official visa application includes filling in the relevant documents. Applying online on the GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) website is possible. The process takes one to two weeks, depending on the completeness of the submitted documents and the correctness of the filling.

Application review. After verification, the application is sent for verification. The authorities check the document's authenticity and the applicant's compliance with the visa requirements. They may request additional documents, certificates, or references. For example, a certificate of no criminal record in the country of residence is often required during the background check process. The speed of processing depends directly on the additional information and documents requested. The entire process can take up to six weeks but is more likely to take two to four weeks.

Interviews. In rare cases, immigration officials may schedule an interview. The appointment process can take place within one, rarely two, weeks.

Preliminary approval. If the application is successful, the applicant receives preliminary approval within one or two weeks, along with instructions on the next steps in the application process.

Final payment of fees and receipt of the visa. The final payment of all fees is made within one or two weeks. After that, a visit to the immigration office or consulate may be necessary to have the visa stamped in the passport.

The final step involves activating the visa and moving to the UAE (if the applicant does not reside there). Upon arrival, it is necessary to register with the local authorities and receive a resident ID.

The total duration of the process of obtaining a UAE Golden Visa averages from 3 to 6 months, depending on the category of the applicant and the speed of document preparation.