Click Here to Get Your 10-Year Golden Visa Guaranteed or Your Money Back
The UAE Golden Visa is a transformative long-term residency program designed to offer unparalleled benefits for foreign talents, investors, and their families. It extends beyond the usual visa perks to include unique advantages such as property ownership rights, no requirement for a local sponsor, access to world-class healthcare and education, and tax-related benefits. This strategic initiative is tailored to attract skilled professionals and contribute to the UAE’s dynamic growth and global standing.
Let’s view the top 13 UAE Golden Visa benefits and explore how receiving a Golden Visa in the UAE can revolutionise your living and working experience in the UAE.
The Top 13 Golden Visa Benefits in the UAE
1. Long-Term Residency (10 Years)
The UAE Golden Visa provides up to 10 years of residency, significantly longer than standard visa options. This extended duration offers a solid foundation for long-term personal and professional development, which is key for establishing deeper roots in the UAE. It opens up extensive opportunities for career advancement and business growth that are typically unattainable with shorter visa terms.
Moreover, this prolonged residency allows individuals and their families to integrate more thoroughly into the UAE’s community and cultural life. By fostering a stronger sense of belonging and a deeper understanding of local customs and traditions, the Golden Visa enhances the overall living experience in the country, making it a highly attractive option for potential residents.
2. No Requirement to Reside in UAE to Maintain Visa
Golden Visa holders enjoy the flexibility to maintain their visa status without needing to reside in the UAE continuously. Typically, residents must not stay outside the UAE for more than six consecutive months to keep their residence visa active. This leniency is especially beneficial for international businesspeople and investors who operate across multiple countries and require the freedom to travel without residency restrictions. Therefore, the Golden Visa promotes global mobility while allowing holders to sustain their connections and advantages in the UAE, including unhindered access to its business ecosystem, all without the requirement of permanent residency.
3. Exclusive Property Ownership Rights
Golden Visa holders benefit from a streamlined process for property ownership in prime UAE locations, making it easier to purchase and manage properties without the burden of the previous AED 1 million minimum down payment requirement. This accessibility, coupled with tax exemptions on rental income and capital gains, enhances the appeal and potential of investing in the UAE’s dynamic real estate market, which is bolstered by its thriving global business and tourism sectors.
Through the partnership, recipients of the Abu Dhabi Golden Visa can access a range of benefits at FAB including exclusive five-year fixed mortgage rates starting from 2.49% per year with a fee waiver, in addition to iSave deposit rates of up to 1.68% per year.
While general mortgage terms still apply, the long-term stability offered by the Golden Visa can positively impact lending decisions, further facilitating investment opportunities in designated areas for foreign nationals.
4. No Sponsor Required
A standout benefit of the UAE Golden Visa is that it doesn’t require a local sponsor, which sets it apart from many other visa types in the country. This independence is particularly transformative for entrepreneurs and investors, as it grants them full autonomy over their business operations without the usual requirement of a local partnership. This autonomy significantly simplifies the process of establishing and managing businesses, offering entrepreneurs and investors flexibility and ease that greatly enhances their operational capabilities within the UAE’s dynamic business landscape.
5. Family and Domestic Workers Inclusion
A key feature of the UAE Golden Visa is the ability to sponsor family members, including spouses, children, and in some instances, parents and siblings. This capability ensures that families can reside together in the UAE, eliminating the need for separate visa applications for each member. Such inclusivity is a significant advantage, reinforcing family bonds and providing a profound sense of security and belonging within the UAE.
Additionally, Golden Visa holders can sponsor their domestic staff, including housemaids, drivers, and other domestic workers. This extension of sponsorship facilitates a comprehensive and comfortable family living environment. Visa holders are required to comply with the UAE’s regulatory standards, ensuring they provide proper accommodation and fair salaries to their sponsored staff in accordance with local employment laws.
6. No Tax on Personal Income
A significant benefit of residing in the UAE, including for Golden Visa holders, is the absence of personal income tax. This nationwide policy exempts all residents from paying tax on income earned from employment, investments, or other personal sources. Additionally, the UAE has introduced a very competitive corporate tax rate (12.5%) which is set to be one of the lowest globally, which applies to businesses operating within the country. Additionally, the UAE has double-tax agreements with 142 countries worldwide.
7. No Corporate Taxes in Free Zones
Free Zones in the UAE are designated areas where companies can operate with significant fiscal benefits. These zones offer exemptions from corporate taxes, VAT, and import/export taxes, making them highly attractive for foreign investment. Additionally, businesses operating within these zones can benefit from 100% foreign ownership and full repatriation of profits and capital.
8. Access to Employment and Business Opportunities
The UAE Golden Visa offers unparalleled access to employment and business opportunities, making it highly attractive for entrepreneurs and skilled professionals. The country boasts world-class infrastructure, advanced technology ecosystems, and modern transportation networks, fostering an optimal environment for professional growth.
The UAE also facilitates business setup with its strategic location, robust support systems like Dubai Future Accelerators and Abu Dhabi’s Hub71, and regular networking events, enhancing its appeal as a prime destination for global business leaders. Additionally, streamlined registration and compliance processes simplify business operations.
Small businesses benefit from various tax advantages designed to support their growth and alleviate financial burdens. These benefits include simplified compliance requirements, potential exemptions from specific tax filings, and reduced corporate tax rates under certain thresholds.
Click Here to Get Your 10-Year Golden Visa Guaranteed or Your Money Back
9. Multiple Entry Visa
Furthermore, the UAE Golden Visa Program facilitates seamless global mobility by offering multiple entry privileges. This allows professionals to travel in and out of the country without the need to apply for a new visa each time they depart. Such flexibility is particularly advantageous for entrepreneurs and talented individuals who need to maintain global connections. It also simplifies travel for their families, enabling them to sustain ties with their home countries and explore new destinations without the inconvenience of frequent visa applications. This ease of movement makes the UAE an ideal hub for those with international lifestyles and business activities.
10. Exemption from Employment Restrictions
One of the distinctive benefits of the UAE Golden Visa is the exemption from traditional employment restrictions that typically apply to other visa categories. This exemption provides Golden Visa holders ultimate flexibility in the job market, allowing them to change employers or pursue multiple job opportunities simultaneously without jeopardising their visa status. This flexibility is particularly advantageous for professionals seeking to enhance their careers through varied experiences and those wishing to supplement their income through additional employment.
Furthermore, this exemption facilitates easier entrepreneurship, as Golden Visa holders can start their own businesses while maintaining employment elsewhere. This dual capacity is particularly beneficial in fostering a dynamic professional environment where individuals can simultaneously explore business ventures and employment, enhancing their professional growth and economic stability in the UAE.
11. Access to Discounted Healthcare
The UAE Golden Visa grants families access to an exceptional healthcare system, featuring state-of-the-art medical facilities equipped with the latest technology and staffed by world-class health professionals. As an added benefit, Golden Visa Holders in Abu Dhabi will receive discounts on their health insurance packages for both individuals and families. These plans start with a premium of approximately AED 2,400 annually, covering up to AED 300,000 with the potential for extending coverage to AED 20 million. The plans also offer global coverage and are available to all Golden Visa holders and their dependents, with the option for customization based on individual needs.
12. Access to Education
The UAE Golden Visa offers substantial benefits for families with children, particularly through enhanced access to educational opportunities. Expatriate students who are Golden Visa holders in Dubai are eligible for discounts when pursuing higher education at international university branches in the city, making it more economically viable for families to access top-tier educational facilities. Beneficiaries of the visa have the opportunity to attend international university branches in Dubai, where students can explore diverse academic disciplines and obtain globally recognised degrees.
13. Esaad Privilege Card
An exclusive perk for certain categories of UAE Golden Visa holders in Dubai is the complimentary Esaad Privilege Card. The Esaad privilege card provides access to savings in areas such as automotive, real estate, healthcare, hospitality, health insurance, and banking. Cardholders enjoy benefits like reduced rates on luxury vehicle purchases, preferential pricing on property transactions, lower health insurance premiums, and discounts at various hotels and leisure facilities, enriching their lifestyle while making everyday expenses more manageable.
Holders of the Esaad card enjoy discounts at over 7,237 brands and businesses within the UAE and globally across 92 countries.
14. Discounts and Benefits for Abu Dhabi Residents
Abu Dhabi residents with Golden Visas can get discounts on selected properties, reduced mortgage fixed-interest rates, and attractive rates on savings accounts. First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) offers specially reduced mortgage rates, with exclusive five-year fixed rates starting from as low as 2.49% per year, accompanied by a fee waiver.
Additionally, Golden Visa holders can benefit from attractive savings rates through FAB’s iSave accounts, which offer rates up to 1.68% per year. These privileges extend to property investments as well, with significant discounts available on selected properties, making real estate ventures more accessible and profitable for Golden Visa holders in Abu Dhabi.
15. Become Automatically Eligible for a UAE Driver’s Licence
Golden Visa holders in Dubai can now take the UAE driver’s test without additional lessons if they have a driving licence from their home country. Additionally, those with a licence from one of 32 approved countries, such as the US, the UK, and Australia, are automatically eligible for a UAE driver’s licence.
16. Live in the Safest City in the World
A significant benefit of the UAE Golden Visa is the opportunity to live in a safe and secure environment. The UAE is renowned for its high safety standards and low crime rates, which provide residents with peace of mind and a secure living atmosphere. In 2024, CEO WORLD magazine designated Abu Dhabi as the safest city in the world, with Dubai closely following as the fifth safest city globally.
17. Access to Premier Leisure and Entertainment
The opportunity to live in the UAE means you will have access to premier leisure and entertainment options. The UAE has a wealth of world-class leisure and entertainment facilities, including luxury shopping malls, exquisite dining options, cultural festivals, and sporting events. Access to high-quality leisure activities not only enhances the quality of life for residents but also makes the UAE an attractive destination for families and individuals looking for a balanced, fulfilling lifestyle.
Click Here to Get Your 10-Year Golden Visa Guaranteed or Your Money Back
UAE Golden Visa Requirements
To be eligible for the coveted Golden Visa in the UAE, you must fall into one of these 16 categories.
1. Investors in Public Investments
To qualify for a 10-year renewable visa, one must either:
- Provide certification from an accredited investment fund of a minimum AED 2 million deposit or
- Present a commercial or industrial license and memorandum of association confirming a capital investment of at least AED 2 million.
- An annual contribution of at least AED 250,000 to the government, confirmed by the Federal Tax Authority, is required.
- Proof of full ownership of the investment without any loans, along with valid medical insurance for oneself and dependents, is necessary.
2. Real Estate Investors
Eligibility for a 5-year renewable visa requires:
- A confirmation from the land department in the respective emirate of property ownership of one or more properties with a combined value of at least AED 2 million.
- Documentation is needed if the property was financed through an approved local bank loan.
3. Investor/Partner
Eligibility for a 10-year renewable visa:
- Possession of a valid trade license, including the partners’ appendix.
- Submission of the most recent financial report for the business or multiple businesses.
- A certificate from the relevant free zone detailing the investor’s financial activities.
- A half-year bank statement of the business reflecting recent transactions.
- Registration with the Federal Tax Authority and verification of annual business transactions amounting to no less than AED 100,000.
- Proof of property ownership, if applicable.
4. Deposit Investor
Eligibility for a 10-year renewable visa:
- Evidence of owning a financial deposit of no less than AED 2,000,000 in a bank within the country, potentially in the form of investment bonds or sukuk.
- Proof of residency in the Emirate of Dubai.
5. Tax Collection Investor
Eligibility for a renewable visa:
- A confirmation letter from the Federal Tax Authority demonstrating partnership in one or more establishments with a tax contribution of at least AED 250,000 annually.
- A valid trade license including the appendix of partners.
3. Entrepreneurs
To secure a 5-year renewable visa, you must:
- Own an innovative, risk-based technical or economic project.
- Obtain verification from a UAE auditor that the project value is at least AED 500.
- Provide letters from the relevant UAE authorities, including a nomination letter from Dubai Future Authority and an accredited business incubator to confirm the project’s innovative nature and establish the business in the UAE.
4. Doctors and Scientists
For a 10-year renewable visa:
- Doctors must have authorization from the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention.
- Scientists need a recommendation from the Emirates Council of Scientists or an award from the Mohammed bin Rashid Medal for Scientific Excellence.
- 2. Nomination/ Recommendation letter from the Emirates Scholars Council.
3. Scientist license certificate.
5. Scientists and Researchers with Notable Achievements
For a 10-year renewable visa:
- Submission of a photocopy of the sponsored individual’s passport.
- A letter of nomination or recommendation from the Emirates Scholars Council.
- Certification of a scientist license.
6. Senior Religious Scholars
For a 10-year renewable visa:
- Submission of a photocopy of the sponsored individual’s passport.
- A letter of nomination or recommendation from the Ministry of Culture and Youth or the relevant local authority.
7. Inventors
A 10-year visa requires:
- A recommendation from the Ministry of Economy demonstrating that the patent significantly benefits the UAE economy.
8. Creative Professionals in Culture and Art
For a 10-year visa, you need:
- Approval from the local Department of Culture and Arts.
9. Executive Directors
Applicants must show:
- An accredited higher education degree.
- A five-year experience letter in a managerial role.
- Proof of earning at least AED 50,000 and a valid work contract.
10. Athletes
A 10-year visa requires:
- A recommendation from the General Sports Authority or a local sports council.
11. Engineering and Science Specialists
A 10-year visa requires:
- A certified degree and a work contract.
12. Digital Talent
A 10-year visa requires:
- A nomination letter from the Emirates Council for Artificial Intelligence and Digital
11. Exceptional talent in other areas of interest
A nomination letter from Dubai Future Authority.
13. High School Students
A 5-year visa, extendable for university studies, requires:
- A 95% grade in secondary school.
- A recommendation from the Ministry of Education.
- A copy of the residence permit issued by the Dubai authority.
14. University Students
For a 10-year visa, you must:
- Hold a bachelor, master, or doctoral degree from a university ranked among the top 100 globally as per the international classifications recognized by the Ministry of Education.
- Maintain a minimum 3.5 GPA.
- Have a recent graduation within two years.
- Hold a copy of the residence permit issued in Dubai.
15. Humanitarian Work Pioneers
A 10-year visa requires:
- At least five years with a notable humanitarian organization.
- An appreciation award and a minimum of AED 2 million in funding for humanitarian efforts.
- A recommendation by the Ministry of Community Development.
- Provide evidence of a university qualification.
- Submit a copy of the residence permit issued by the authority in Dubai.
16. Frontline Heroes
To receive the 10-year visa, you must:
- Be recognised for exceptional crisis management efforts (e.g., during COVID-19), this category requires a confirmation from the Frontline Heroes office.
Golden Visa Fees
Residence permit: AED 1100
Additional fees include:
Knowledge dirham: AED 10
Innovation dirham: AED 10
In-country fee: AED 500
Delivery fee: AED 20
Note: For each year that the residency extends beyond two years, the issuance fee will increase by AED 100.
For more details on your eligibility for the Golden Visa, click here.
The UAE Golden Visa: Unlocking Opportunities
Click Here to Get Your 10-Year Golden Visa Guaranteed or Your Money Back
The UAE Golden Visa Program is a significant initiative for investors, entrepreneurs, professionals, and their families, offering tangible benefits that position the UAE as an ideal residency destination. It provides not just long-term residency but also access to exceptional infrastructure, investment opportunities, and a favourable business environment. The program extends to cover essential aspects of life, such as quality education and healthcare, while also including family-inclusive policies and exclusive perks like the Esaad Privilege Card.
For those aiming to build a future in a dynamic and thriving environment, the UAE Golden Visa is a practical choice. It offers a pathway to not only reside in the UAE but also to leverage the opportunities and lifestyle it offers.
Contact us at Virtuzone if you want help getting your Golden Visa in the UAE. Our team will evaluate your profile and eligibility for the Golden Visa and guide you through the complete process and all the requirements involved.
FAQ’s
What is a UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residence visa that allows foreign talents to live, work, and study in the UAE with full ownership of their business on the mainland. These visas are usually valid for 5 or 10 years and are automatically renewable.
How Does the Golden Visa Benefit Family Members?
Golden Visa holders can sponsor their family members, including spouses and children, regardless of their ages. It ensures that families can live together in the UAE.
Can Golden Visa Holders Travel Outside the UAE?
Yes, one of the significant benefits of the Golden Visa is that it allows holders to easily travel in and out of the UAE without the risk of losing their visa status, provided they return to the UAE at least once every six months.
How Long Does It Take to Process a Golden Visa Application in the UAE?
The processing time can vary, but it generally takes a few weeks. Applicants must ensure that all required documentation is correctly submitted to avoid delays.
What are the Differences Between a 5-year and 10-year Golden Visa?
The main difference lies in the eligibility criteria and the investment amount. A 10-year visa typically requires a higher investment threshold and is aimed at investors and individuals with significant contributions to key sectors, while a 5-year visa is more accessible to entrepreneurs and professionals.
Can You Switch From a Regular Visa to a Golden Visa?
Yes, individuals who meet the eligibility criteria can apply to switch their current residency status to a Golden Visa, subject to approval by the UAE immigration authorities.
Does Holding a Golden Visa Lead to UAE Citizenship?
The Golden Visa program provides long-term residency but not a direct route to citizenship. UAE citizenship laws are quite strict and generally require personal contributions of an exceptional nature to the country, among other specific criteria. Citizenship decisions are typically made through nominations and require approval from the highest levels of government.
Can I Renew My Golden Visa?
Yes, you can renew your Golden Visa in the UAE if you continue to meet the eligibility requirements that were in place when you first received the visa. The renewal process typically involves demonstrating that you still fulfil the financial or professional conditions associated with your visa category, such as maintaining the necessary investment level or continuing to hold a qualifying position.
