Visa Services

The Dubai Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa that allows foreigners to live, work, study, and invest in the UAE for up to 10 years, without needing a local sponsor. A Golden Visa is perfect for those who want more stability and freedom while living in the UAE.

The Golden Visa has become very popular among investors, skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and top students. For example, real estate investors can now instantly qualify for a 10-year visa by investing at least AED 2 million in property in Dubai. Professionals like doctors, engineers, and tech experts are eligible if they earn at least AED 30,000 per month and have a university degree.

Entrepreneurs can apply if they have a UAE-registered startup with a minimum capital of AED 500,000. Students from top universities with a GPA above 3.8 may also qualify, and they can even sponsor their families.

In 2025, the UAE made some exciting updates to the Golden Visa program. They added five new categories, including healthcare workers, educators, e-sports players, digital content creators, and even luxury yacht owners. These new groups can now apply for a 10-year Golden Visa.

What is the Dubai Golden Visa?

The Dubai Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa (up to 10 years) introduced by the UAE government in 2019. It allows foreign nationals, whether they are investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, researchers, or outstanding students, to live, work, or study in the UAE without the need for a local sponsor.

The main purpose of the Golden Visa is to attract and retain top global talent and investors by offering them the chance to build a secure, long-term future in the country.

The Golden Visa is issued and regulated by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP), in coordination with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) and other UAE government entities.

Who Can Apply for a Dubai Golden Visa?

The Dubai Golden Visa is open to a wide range of people who contribute to the UAE’s economy, innovation, and society. Here’s a detailed look at the main categories:

1. Investors

Foreign investors can apply if they:

Invest at least AED 2 million in real estate (completed or off-plan, with 50% paid).

• Invest in public investments like UAE-based companies or funds.
• Can provide proof that the investment is not funded by a loan and retained for at least 2 years.

This is ideal for real estate buyers, business investors, or those managing large assets in the UAE.

2. Entrepreneurs & Start-up Founders

For business owners and startup founders, contributing to innovation and economic growth.

• Own or are a partner in a UAE-registered startup with a capital of at least AED 500,000.
• Have a business project approved by an official business incubator or relevant UAE authority.
• Can show success in previous entrepreneurial ventures.

4. Skilled Professionals

For experts working in high-demand sectors like healthcare, tech, education, and engineering.

Professionals must:

• Work in priority fields like medicine, engineering, IT, education, legal, and sciences.
• Have a valid UAE employment contract with a salary of at least AED 30,000/month.
• Hold a bachelor’s degree or higher in their area of expertise.

5. Scientists & Researchers

To apply under this category, you need:

• A PhD or Master’s degree in life sciences, natural sciences, engineering, or technology.
• A recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council or a relevant UAE authority.
• Proof of active contributions in research, patents, or scientific publications.

6. Outstanding Students & Graduates

You can apply if you are:

• A high school student with a grade of 95% or above from a UAE-accredited institution.
• A university graduate with a GPA of 3.5 or above from a top 100 international or UAE university.
• A recent graduate with achievements or awards in academic competitions.

7. Creative & Cultural Talents

This category includes:

• Artists, actors, musicians, designers, filmmakers, and authors.
• Those with awards or recognition from UAE cultural authorities, like the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority.
• Applicants must show a strong portfolio or body of work that reflects their talent.

8. Humanitarian & Frontline Workers

This includes:

• Doctors, paramedics, and volunteers who served during COVID-19 or other crises.
• Long-serving humanitarian workers, both local and international.

9. Retirees

To qualify as a retiree:

• You must be 55 years or older.
• Have a monthly income of AED 15,000, or savings of AED 1 million, or own property worth AED 1 million.

10. Senior Executives

Senior professionals can apply if they:

• Have a bachelor’s degree and at least 5 years of experience in a senior role.
• Earn a monthly salary of AED 50,000 or more.
• Hold a position of responsibility in a UAE-based company or MNC.

Great for CEOs, CFOs, directors, and other corporate leaders.

11. New 2025 Categories for Golden Visa

Recently added professionals who can now apply include:

• Healthcare workers like senior nurses, therapists, and specialists.
• Educators with proven excellence, especially in STEM fields.
• E-sports professionals with international rankings or awards.
• Digital content creators and influencers, approved by the Creators HQ UAE.
• Luxury yacht owners with UAE-registered yachts that are 40 meters or longer.

To apply for the Dubai Golden Visa, choose the category that suits you: investor, professional, entrepreneur, student, or one of the new 2025 categories like healthcare, content creation, or yacht ownership. Confirm you meet the thresholds (e.g., AED 2 m investment, AED 30,000 salary, GPA ≥ 3.8) before proceeding. Gulf Central can guide you through your entire journey to avail the Dubai Golden Visa.