The UAE’s Golden Visa is a long-term residency program designed to attract exceptional talent, investors, and professionals. The updated 2024 regulations have expanded eligibility criteria, making it easier for a broader range of applicants to qualify. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the categories and their specific requirements.
1. Investors in Public Investments
Investors contributing to public or private funds can qualify for the Golden Visa under these conditions:
- Capital Requirement:
- A letter from an accredited UAE investment fund confirming a deposit of AED 2 million.
- A valid commercial or industrial license with a Memorandum of Association confirming a capital investment of no less than AED 2 million.
- A letter from the Federal Tax Authority confirming annual tax payments of at least AED 250,000.
- Ownership Rule: Investors must fully own the capital, without any loans.
- Additional Requirement: Proof of medical insurance for themselves and their family.
2. Real Estate Investors
Real estate investors have new opportunities to secure long-term residency:
- Minimum Investment: AED 2 million in property value.
- Flexible Options:
- Single or multiple properties can be combined to meet the threshold.
- Co-investments in properties are allowed.
- Off-Plan Investments: Eligible if:
- A 50% down payment is made or a bank guarantee is provided for the remaining amount.
- The property is 50% complete.
- Evaluation: Property value must be verified through the Dubai Land Department.
3. Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs with innovative projects or substantial investments can qualify under these conditions:
- Economic Project: Must be a technical or future-oriented project valued at no less than AED 500,000.
- Approval Letters:
- From an accredited UAE auditor confirming the project’s value.
- From local authorities affirming the project’s innovative or technical nature.
- From a business incubator endorsing the activity.
4. Outstanding Specialized Talents
Individuals with specialized skills in various fields are eligible, including:
- Doctors and Scientists:
- Approval from the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (for doctors).
- Recommendation from the Emirates Council of Scientists or recognition by the Mohammed bin Rashid Medal for Scientific Excellence (for scientists).
- Inventors:
- Recommendation from the Ministry of Economy confirming the economic value of their patents.
- Creative Professionals:
- Approval from relevant cultural and arts departments.
- Executive Directors:
- A Bachelor’s degree certified by the Ministry of Education.
- At least five years of experience in their field.
- A monthly salary of AED 50,000 and a valid work contract.
- Athletes:
- Recommendation from the UAE General Sports Authority or a local sports council.
- Engineering and Science Specialists:
- Degrees in fields like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, big data, or computer engineering, certified by the Ministry of Education.
5. Outstanding Students
High-achieving students are recognized for their academic excellence:
- High School Students:
- A minimum grade of 95% in public or private secondary schools.
- Recommendation from the Ministry of Education.
- University Students:
- Enrolled in A or B-rated universities in the UAE or globally ranked top 100 institutions.
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 (A-rated) or 3.8 (B-rated).
- Graduated within the past two years.
6. Teachers
Teachers who make exceptional contributions are eligible:
- Institutions: Must work in private schools, early childhood centers, or higher education institutions.
- Educational Requirement: Degrees recognized by the UAE Ministry of Education.
7. Pioneers of Humanitarian Work
Eligibility for those making a lasting social impact:
- Who Qualifies:
- Employees of international or regional organizations with at least five years of experience.
- Individuals who have received humanitarian awards.
- Funders of humanitarian work with contributions of no less than AED 2 million.
8. Frontline Heroes
Workers who demonstrated exceptional service during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic:
- Examples: Nurses, lab technicians, and other healthcare professionals.
- Requirement: Recommendation from the UAE’s Frontline Heroes Office.
Exclusive Benefits for Golden Visa Holders
- Long-term residency valid for 10 years, renewable.
- No Sponsorship Required: Freedom to work, study, or invest independently.
- Family Sponsorship: Includes spouses, children (regardless of age), and parents.
- Unlimited Domestic Helpers: Visa holders can sponsor an unrestricted number of domestic workers.
- Residency Retention: Dependents can remain in the UAE even after the primary visa holder’s death.
- “One-Touch” Service: Streamlines visa issuance, status adjustments, and renewals.
Conclusion
The UAE’s revised Golden Visa program reflects the country’s dedication to creating an inclusive, investment-friendly environment. By offering expanded opportunities across multiple categories, the UAE continues to attract global talent and innovation, cementing its position as a hub for economic growth and cultural diversity.