SECURE UAE GOLDEN VISA FOR LONG-TERM RESIDENCY

UAE Golden Visa

Launched in 2019, the UAE Golden Visa aims to attract top global talent—including investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, and exceptional students. At AB Nexis, we streamline the entire Golden Visa application process, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience from start to finish.

Enjoy exclusive benefits such as long-term residency in the UAE, 100% mainland company ownership, and the freedom to live, work, and study in one of the world’s most dynamic economies.

Important: The standard processing time for a Golden Visa application typically ranges from 2 to 4 weeks, depending on eligibility and supporting documentation.

Golden Visa UAE: Everything You Need to Know

Imagine launching your dream business in a vibrant global city, surrounded by luxury, sunshine all year round, and tax-friendly policies.

Sounds ideal?

Now imagine being able to live, work, and invest in that city long-term—without the hassle of local sponsorship or ownership restrictions.

Welcome to the UAE Golden Visa.

What Is the UAE Golden Visa?

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency program introduced in 2019 to attract investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, researchers, and top-performing students from across the world. Unlike conventional visa programs, the Golden Visa grants eligible individuals up to 10 years of renewable residency with a host of exceptional benefits—making it one of the most attractive long-term residence options globally.

Designed to strengthen the UAE’s position as a hub for business, innovation, and talent, the program has already transformed the landscape. By the end of 2021, more than 44,000 residents in Dubai alone had secured long-term residency through the Golden Visa scheme.

Whether you’re an investor, founder, executive, or high-achieving student, this visa opens the door to a lifestyle and business environment few other countries can match.

Key Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa

1. No Local Sponsor Required

Golden Visa holders enjoy complete independence—no Emirati sponsor is needed to live, work, or study in the UAE. This eliminates one of the biggest hurdles typically faced by foreign nationals applying for residence in many Gulf countries.

Whether you’re self-employed, an entrepreneur, or an investor, this flexibility ensures your ability to stay and operate in the UAE on your own terms.

2. 100% Foreign Business Ownership (Including Mainland)

Previously, setting up a company in the UAE mainland often required a local sponsor or partner to hold a stake in the business. The Golden Visa changes that.

With this visa, eligible holders can enjoy 100% ownership of their business, even outside designated free zones. This removes operational and structural limitations and allows for full control of your company and its profits.

3. Sponsor Family Members and Key Staff

Another standout advantage is the ability to sponsor family members and key personnel under your visa. This includes your spouse, children, and in some cases, business partners or senior executives.

This feature not only streamlines the visa process for loved ones and essential staff but also ensures long-term stability for your personal and professional life in the UAE.

4. Unlimited Entry and Exit

The UAE Golden Visa allows for unrestricted travel in and out of the country, with no risk of losing residency due to extended stays abroad.

This is ideal for business owners and professionals who travel frequently for international meetings, conferences, or family visits. You maintain your UAE residency without being tied down by re-entry deadlines or minimum stay conditions.

Why the UAE Golden Visa Is Different

Unlike many other global residency programs that come with rigid requirements, limited stay durations, or high tax obligations, the UAE Golden Visa stands out for its simplicity, flexibility, and benefits.

• No income tax or personal tax

• World-class infrastructure and healthcare

• Stable government and thriving economy

• Access to key markets in the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and Africa

Whether you’re looking to set up a global headquarters, invest in real estate, or move your family to one of the safest and most luxurious cities in the world, the Golden Visa gives you the legal and financial freedom to do so.

Additional Benefits for UAE Golden Visa Holders by Emirate

The UAE Golden Visa offers more than long-term residency—it unlocks a host of exclusive benefits across different Emirates. Whether you’re an investor, a skilled professional, or a top-performing student, each Emirate provides unique privileges that enhance your lifestyle and opportunities in the UAE.

Golden Visa Benefits in Dubai

Dubai’s Golden Visa holders gain access to a range of perks designed to support professionals, students, and investors:

• Esaad Privilege Card: Eligible Golden Visa recipients in Dubai may receive the Esaad Card, a government-issued discount and rewards card. This benefit is granted free of charge and offers thousands of deals across healthcare, education, retail, and leisure sectors.

• Streamlined Driver’s License Conversion:

  • Golden Visa holders with a valid foreign driver’s license can take the UAE driving test without completing local driving lessons.

  • Applicants holding licenses from 32 approved countries (including the US, UK, and EU nations) are eligible for a direct exchange to a UAE license, without the need for testing.

• 10-Year Residency for Outstanding Students:

  • Exceptional expatriate students in Dubai can obtain a 10-year Golden Visa.

  • Qualifying students and their families may also benefit from tuition discounts and scholarships at leading international universities in the Emirate.

Golden Visa Benefits in Abu Dhabi

The capital offers one of the most comprehensive Golden Visa incentive programs, thanks to strong government and private-sector partnerships facilitated by the Abu Dhabi Residents Office (ADRO):

• Real Estate Incentives:

  • Golden Visa holders are eligible for exclusive discounts on properties developed by Imkan and other major developers.

  • Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB) and First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) offer preferential fixed-interest mortgage rates to property investors holding Golden Visas.

• Banking & Financial Benefits:

  • Both real estate and non-real estate investors enjoy reduced mortgage rates and enhanced savings account interest options.

  • Priority services and personalized banking products are also made available.

• Healthcare & Insurance:

  • Golden Visa holders and their families receive significant discounts on annual health insurance premiums from selected providers.

• Automotive Privileges:

  • Special pricing on new vehicle models.

  • Priority access to new releases.

  • Flexible payment plans, discounted maintenance services, and expedited licensing procedures.

• Hospitality, Wellness & Lifestyle:

  • Exclusive offers on hotel stays, luxury spa services, and gym memberships across the capital.

These privileges are continually expanding as the Emirate strengthens ties with private-sector partners to attract top-tier residents.

Are You Eligible for the UAE Golden Visa?

With recent reforms, the UAE has broadened the eligibility criteria for its Golden Visa program to attract global talent and long-term investors. However, applicants must still meet specific qualifications aligned with the UAE’s strategic vision for economic growth and innovation.

You may be eligible for a UAE Golden Visa if you fall under one of the following categories:

• Investors (Real Estate, Public Investment)

• Entrepreneurs

• Skilled Professionals

• Scientists and Researchers

• Executives and Directors

• Athletes and Sports Professionals

• Engineers and Technologists

• Artists, Writers, and Cultural Contributors

• Inventors and Innovators

• Outstanding High School and University Students

• Healthcare Professionals

• Tech Industry Specialists

• Humanitarian Workers and Volunteers

Each category has its own requirements—ranging from minimum salary or investment thresholds to professional accreditations and industry recognition. Failure to meet the exact conditions may result in your application being denied.

How to Apply for the UAE Golden Visa

The application process varies based on your eligibility category, but the general procedure is as follows:

1. Determine the Right Category
   Identify the category that aligns with your qualifications—whether it’s as an investor, student, or professional—and gather the required supporting documents.

2. Submit Your Application
   Apply through the relevant UAE immigration portal or through a licensed business setup partner. Submit your completed application along with the necessary fees.

3. Wait for Initial Approval
   Processing typically takes up to 30 days. If your preliminary approval is granted, you will be contacted for the next steps.

4. Cancel Your Existing Visa
   If you’re already a UAE resident, you must cancel your current visa before transitioning to the Golden Visa.

5. Receive Your Golden Visa
   Once approved, your new long-term visa will be issued and stamped into your passport.

AB Nexis simplifies your Golden Visa journey with end-to-end support, from eligibility assessment to final approval. Whether you’re applying in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or another Emirate, we ensure a seamless process aligned with your personal and professional goals.

Who Can Apply for a UAE Golden Visa?

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency program designed to attract exceptional talent, investors, innovators, and professionals from around the world. If you’re wondering whether you qualify, the answer depends on your profession, contributions, and documentation.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the eligibility criteria for each category under the UAE Golden Visa program.

1. Investors

A. Real Estate Investors

You may qualify for a UAE Golden Visa if you meet one of the following property-related conditions:

• The AED 1 million minimum down payment requirement has been removed.

• Mortgaged or off-plan properties may be accepted if substantial progress has been made in the project’s development.

• If your property was originally purchased for under AED 2 million but its current market value is AED 2 million or more, you are still eligible.

B. Commercial Investors in Investment Funds

Requirements:

• Audited company financial report from the previous fiscal year

• Valid trade licence (commercial or industrial) issued in Dubai

• Partners’ list from the Dubai Economic Department

• Copy of UAE residence visa

• Last 3 months’ company bank statements

• VAT return documents

Note:

Licenses from Dubai’s free zones or special development zones require a “To Whom It May Concern” certificate from the relevant authority.

C. Fixed Deposit Investors

Requirements:

• A letter in Arabic from the bank stating:

  • The value of the deposit

  • That it will not be broken for two years

  • If broken, it will be reported to GDRFA – Dubai

• Residence visa copy

• Valid tenancy contract

D. Tax Return Investors

Requirements:

• A letter from the Federal Tax Authority

• Trade licence and partners’ list

• UAE residence photo

2. Owners of Specialised Talents & Researchers in Science and Knowledge

Doctors

Requirements:

• Certificate of medical practice (in Arabic) issued by the Ministry of Health, Dubai Health Authority, or Dubai Healthcare City

• Valid labour card or certified employment contract

• UAE residence visa copy

• Profession as per licence documentation

Healthcare Professionals

Includes doctors, nurses, and other frontline workers who contributed during critical periods like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Requirements:

• Proof of professional contributions and recognition

• Certificates and employment verification

Scientists

Requirements:

• Recommendation letter from the Emirates Scientists Council or the Secretariat of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Award for Academic Excellence

• Passport copy

Specialists in Engineering & Science

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher (attested by the Ministry of Education)

• Valid residence visa

• Employment contract in one of the following fields:

  • Artificial Intelligence

  • Big Data

  • Computer/Electronics/Electrical/Software Engineering

  • Genetic or Biotechnology Engineering

  • Epidemiology and Viruses

• Profession upon application must match the academic specialisation

3. Creative Individuals in Culture & Arts

Requirements:

• Recommendation letter from the Culture and Arts Authority

• Passport copy

• Profession granted is based on the content of the recommendation

4. Inventors

Requirements:

• Letter of recommendation from the Ministry of Economy

• Passport copy

• Profession granted as per the letter

5. High-Level Executives

Eligible positions: General Manager, Executive Director, Chairman of the Board

Requirements:

• NOC from employer confirming a minimum of 5 years in the role

• Bachelor’s degree or higher (attested by the Ministry of Education)

• Monthly salary of AED 30,000 or more

• Active work contract matching the role and salary

• 6 months’ personal bank statements

• Profession on application: Executive-level role

Note:

• The contract must have been valid for at least 24 months prior to applying.

• A review of the company’s structure, staff, and revenue may be conducted.

6. Athletes

Requirements:

• Endorsement letter from a recognized sports council or the General Authority for Sports

• Passport copy

• Profession granted based on the recommendation

7. Outstanding Students

High School Students

Requirements:

• UAE national-level top achiever with minimum 95% grade

• Recommendation from the Ministry of Education (Emirates Schools Establishment)

• Eligible for a 5-year Golden Visa, renewable if enrolled in a program longer than 5 years

University Students

Local Universities:

• Must be classified as Class A or B by the Ministry of Education

• Minimum GPA:

  • 3.5 for A-Class universities

  • 3.8 for B-Class universities

• Graduation must have occurred within the past 2 years

• Accredited graduation certificate or transcript

International Universities:

• Must be ranked among the top 100 globally (as per the Ministry of Education)

• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5

• Degree must be attested by the Ministry of Education

• Students receive a 10-year visa without sponsorship

8. Tech Professionals

Requirements:

• Recognised software developers or IT professionals

• Supported by or partnered with major tech companies like Google, Amazon, Meta (Facebook), or similar

• Proof of professional achievements and letters of endorsement required

9. Pioneers of Humanitarian Work

Requirements:

• At least 5 years of experience in international or regional humanitarian organizations or civil society institutions

• Received recognition or awards from respected humanitarian entities

• Financial supporters must have donated at least AED 2 million (or equivalent)

Secure Your Future with a 10-Year UAE Golden Visa

Dreaming of year-round sunshine, world-class infrastructure, and access to one of the most dynamic business hubs on the planet? A UAE Golden Visa could be your gateway to long-term residency and unmatched opportunities in the Emirates.

Whether you’re an investor, entrepreneur, skilled professional, or exceptional student, the 10-year renewable Golden Visa offers more than just residency—it opens the door to premium lifestyle benefits, business ownership rights, and family stability.

Why Choose the UAE Golden Visa?

• 10-Year Residency with multiple renewal options

• Sponsor-Free Living for you and your immediate family

• Full Business Ownership across mainland and free zones

• Access to Top-Tier Healthcare, Education & Banking Services

• Residency Stability without the need for a local employer or partner

Ready to Find Out If You Qualify?

If you think you may be eligible for the Golden Visa, now is the perfect time to explore your options. At AB Nexis, our team of UAE business setup and immigration specialists will walk you through:

• A free eligibility assessment

• Guidance on the most suitable Golden Visa category

• Business formation support if required

• Full documentation and submission handling

Whether you’re moving for lifestyle, investment, or expansion—we make the process simple, fast, and compliant.

Make the Move with Confidence

Don’t miss your chance to secure long-term residency in one of the world’s most secure, tax-efficient, and opportunity-rich environments.

Get in touch with AB Nexis today to discover how easily you can obtain your UAE Golden Visa—and start building a future in the Emirates.