How to Apply a Dubai Golden Visa

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. 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 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 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.

Not sure if you qualify? Get in touch with Shuraa experts today.

What is the Eligibility to Obtain a Golden Visa in UAE?

Wondering if you qualify for this popular visa? Here’s a quick look at the main categories eligible for the Golden Visa in Dubai:

Investors: Invest at least AED 2 million in UAE real estate or an approved company. The investment must be retained for at least three years.

Entrepreneurs: Have you set up a business with a minimum capital of AED 500,000? This category could be your path to residency.

Skilled Professionals and Researchers: If you’re a highly skilled professional in fields like technology, science, or healthcare, you might just be eligible.

Outstanding Students: Did you excel academically? Outstanding students with a 95% grade or higher could qualify for a Golden Visa along with their family members.

Each of these categories has specific requirements, so it’s worth diving deeper into your particular field. This visa isn’t just for investors – Dubai is opening its doors to talents and innovators from various sectors.

What is the UAE Golden Visa Requirements?

The documents you need to submit for a Dubai Golden Visa application may vary slightly depending on the category you’re applying for.

However, here’s a general list of common documents:

• Passport copy (valid for at least 6 months)

• Passport-size photograph (with white background, recent)

• UAE entry permit or valid UAE residency visa (if applicable)

• Valid Emirates ID (if you’re already a resident)

• Medical fitness certificate (issued by a UAE health centre)

• Health insurance policy (approved by UAE authorities)

• Good conduct certificate (from UAE police, in some cases)

• Tenancy contract or proof of accommodation in the UAE

• Visa application form (from ICP or GDRFA portal)

• Fee payment receipt

Category-Specific Requirements:

1. For Investors

• Title deed of the property (worth AED 2 million or more)

• Proof of investment (bank statement, investment certificate)

• No objection letter from the property developer or bank (if mortgaged)

• Letter of commitment to retain the investment for at least 2 years

Read more: UAE Property Investor Visa

2. For Entrepreneurs

• Trade license and Memorandum of Association (MOA)

• Company profile or business plan

• Incubator approval (if applying through a government incubator)

• Audited financial statements or proof of capital (AED 500,000 or more)

3. For Skilled Professionals

• Employment contract from a UAE-based company

• Salary certificate (proving AED 30,000/month or higher)

• Academic degree (attested by UAE Ministry of Education)

• Professional license (if applicable – e.g., doctor, engineer)

Read more: UAE Golden Visa for Professionals

4. For Students and Graduates

• High school certificate (for UAE school students scoring 95%+)

• University degree and transcripts (for top graduates)

• GPA certificate or academic ranking proof

• Recommendation letter from school/university (optional)

5. For Scientists & Researchers

• Academic qualifications (Master’s or PhD in relevant field)

• Recommendation from Emirates Scientists Council

• Published research papers or patents (if available)

6. For Creative Talents

• Portfolio showcasing your work

• Awards or recognitions from UAE-approved cultural entities

• Recommendation letters or media coverage (if any)

7. For Retirees

• Proof of age (passport/DOB page)

• Pension income documents (minimum AED 15,000/month)

• OR bank statements showing AED 1 million in savings

• OR property ownership documents worth AED 1 million+

8. For Other Categories

• Digital creators: Approval from Creators HQ or equivalent

• Healthcare/Educators: Experience certificates, degrees, and ministry approval

• E-sports players: Proof of ranking/awards or recognition from e-sports bodies

• Yacht owners: UAE yacht registration documents and proof of ownership

How to Apply for a Golden Visa in UAE?

To apply for a Dubai Golden Visa, follow these steps very carefully:

1. Check Your Eligibility

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.

2. Apply Online via ICP or GDRFA

To apply for Dubai Golden Visa log into ICP Smart Services (using UAE Pass or Emirates ID) or GDRFA Dubai portal. Select “Golden Visa – Nomination Request,” fill in personal and eligibility information, upload your documents, and pay a small fee (usually AED 100–150). You’ll receive an email confirmation and application number.

3. Wait for Background Check & Eligibility Review

After submission, UAE authorities (GDRFA or ICP) will verify your documents and do background screening. This may take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the category and completeness of your file.

4. Receive Entry Permit (if Outside UAE)

Once approved, you’ll be issued a 6-month multiple-entry permit to enter the UAE and complete the visa process. If you are already in the UAE, you can directly move to the medical and visa stamping step.

5. Complete Medical Test & Biometrics

This is a mandatory health screening step. Visit a DHA-approved clinic in Dubai or an approved centre in your emirate for:

• Basic medical fitness test (blood test & chest X-ray)

• Biometric data (fingerprints and facial scan) for Emirates ID at an ICP or GDRFA centre.

6. Visa Stamping and Emirates ID Issuance

After passing the medical test, submit your passport for final visa stamping and Emirates ID processing. The visa is stamped on your passport for up to 10 years, depending on the type. You’ll receive your new Emirates ID shortly after (usually within 7–10 working days).

7. Sponsor Dependents

Once your visa is active, you can apply to sponsor family members – spouse, children, parents, and domestic staff, based on category rules.

Apply for Golden Visa Now!

What is the Cost of a 10-Year UAE Golden Visa?

The total cost of a 10-year UAE Golden Visa varies depending on your visa category (such as investor, professional, or entrepreneur) and whether you apply yourself or through a PRO service.

If you’re applying as an investor, you’ll need to invest at least AED 2 million in real estate or public investments. This is a qualifying requirement, not a government fee, but it’s the biggest financial component for investor applicants.

The government processing fees usually range between AED 2,790 to AED 3,000. This includes the visa issuance fee, application charges, and smart services. If you’re applying from outside the UAE, you may also need to pay for an entry permit, which costs around AED 1,000.

You’ll also need to pay for a medical fitness test (blood test and X-ray), which typically costs AED 250 to AED 700. After that, you’ll apply for an Emirates ID valid for 10 years, which comes to around AED 1,070 to AED 1,153.

Note: The costs are subject to change. you can always get help from business setup consultants like Shuraa, who can provide you with the exact cost and guide you through the entire journey.

What are the Benefits of Obtaining a Golden Visa in Dubai?

Getting a Golden Visa in UAE comes with far more than just long-term residency; it opens the door to financial freedom, stability, and lifestyle perks that are hard to match anywhere else. Here’s what makes it such a valuable option:

1. Long-Term Residency & Stability

Golden Visa holders receive 5 or 10 years of residency (renewable), reducing the hassle of frequent visa renewals. It allows you and your family to plan long-term, whether for business, education, or lifestyle improvements.

2. No Need for a Local Sponsor

The Golden Visa allows you to live, work, or run a business without a UAE national sponsor. You are self-sponsored and fully independent.

3. Sponsor Your Entire Family

You can sponsor your spouse, children (with extended age limits), parents, and even household staff. This ensures your whole family can stay with you under one long-term visa.

4. 100% Business & Property Ownership

The Golden Visa in UAE allows freehold property ownership and full foreign business ownership, with no sponsor needed, a major advantage for investors and entrepreneurs.

5. Access to Quality Education & Healthcare

Your family can benefit from world-class hospitals, clinics, and international schools, often with special pricing or premium access.

6. Priority Access to Services

Golden Visa holders receive priority services at government offices, VIP treatment at airports, and exclusive discounts on education, healthcare, and even lifestyle experiences through the Esaad privilege card.

Read more: Top Golden Visa Benefits in the UAE

UAE Golden Visa New Rules 2025

The UAE has rolled out new updates in 2025 to make the Golden Visa more accessible, diverse, and streamlined. Here’s what’s changed:

• Updated Salary Requirement: Professionals must now show a basic salary of AED 30,000/month (excluding allowances) and provide 6 months of bank statements.

• Off-Plan Property Now Accepted: Real estate investors can now qualify using under-construction property (AED 2M+), with at least 50% paid or bank-guaranteed.

• Easier Access for Entrepreneurs: Startups backed by UAE incubators (like Hub71) now qualify if the business is worth AED 500,000+.

• Expanded Benefits for Students & Teachers: Top students can now sponsor their parents and siblings. Outstanding private school teachers now qualify for long-term residency.

• More Eligibility Categories:

Five new groups can now apply for the 10-year golden visa in UAE:

1. Healthcare workers (especially long-serving nurses)

2. Educators in schools and universities

3. Digital content creators & influencers

4. E-sports and gaming professionals

5. Luxury yacht owners

Read also: What are The New Rules for UAE Visa 2025?

Golden Visa in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi offers the Golden Visa under its visionary “Thrive in Abu Dhabi” initiative, designed to attract and retain global talent, investors, and innovators.

Key categories include:

• Investors: AED 2M+ in property or business; or AED 250K annual tax payment.

• Professionals: Salary of AED 30K+, bachelor’s degree, and UAE license if required.

• Students: High school score ≥95% or university GPA ≥3.8.

• Entrepreneurs: AED 500K+ business or government-approved innovation.

• Talented Individuals: Artists, creatives, athletes with achievements and endorsements.

• New 2025 Categories: Yacht professionals, innovators, and digital creators.

Golden Visa in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK)

Ras Al Khaimah, one of the fastest-growing emirates in the UAE, offers its own version of the Golden Visa program to attract long-term residents who contribute to its economic, educational, and social development.

The emirate’s flexible criteria and lower entry thresholds make it especially appealing for educators, mid-scale investors, and business owners seeking stability and growth in a peaceful, family-friendly environment.

Key categories include:

• Public & Property Investors: AED 2M+ investment (property or funds).

• Entrepreneurs: AED 500K+ business setup and approvals.

• Professionals: Doctors, scientists, inventors, C-level executives.

• Students: Top-performing school and university students.

• Educators: 3+ years in RAK, strong credentials.

• Others: Humanitarian workers and frontline heroes.

What is the Blue Visa in Dubai?

The Blue Visa is a newly introduced 10-year residency permit aimed specifically at environmental champions and sustainability experts. This visa is designed for individuals and organizations who have made remarkable contributions in areas like:

• Environmental research, clean or renewable energy

• Climate action, marine life, air quality, and circular economy

• Global eco-award winners, activists, NGO members, and researchers

To apply for a blue visa in the UAE, applicants can either apply directly through the ICP portal or be nominated by the UAE authorities. A 6-month multiple-entry visa is initially granted, followed by final approval for a full 10-year residency.

Read more: What is the UAE Blue Visa, and Who is Eligible to Apply?

How the Blue Visa Differs from the Golden Visa in UAE?

While both the Blue Visa and Golden Visa offer long-term residency in the UAE, they differ significantly in purpose, eligibility, and the kind of talent they aim to attract.

Feature	Blue Visa	Golden Visa
Duration	10 years (renewable)	5 – 10 years (renewable)
Eligibility	Environmentalists, climate researchers, NGO members, innovators in sustainability	Investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, talented students, etc.
Purpose	To support environmental protection and sustainability efforts	To attract broad talent, investment, and innovation across diverse sectors
Business scope	Businesses in sustainability/green technologies only	Allows full business and property ownership across all sectors
Perks	Government support for green initiatives, access to sustainability networks	Family sponsorship, tax-free income, fast track services, etc.
Switchability	Can switch to Golden Visa later (if criteria met)	—

How Shuraa Can Help You Apply for UAE Golden Visa

Getting a Golden Visa in UAE isn’t just about staying longer; it’s about building a better future in one of the world’s most exciting and fast-growing cities. Doesn’t matter if you’re an investor, business owner, skilled professional, or top student; this visa gives you the freedom, stability, and opportunities to grow in the UAE.

At Shuraa Business Setup, we’re here to make the process simple and stress-free. From checking if you’re eligible to helping with documents, applying online, and getting final approval, we’ve got you covered. We also help with business setup, freelance licenses, and property investments if needed for your application.

If you’re ready to take the next step, talk to our experts for a free consultation. With the Golden Visa and full support from Shuraa, let’s make your Dubai dream a reality.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

*Disclaimer: The information in this post is for general guidance only and may change due to updates in government policies or regulations.

This article was originally published on August 16, 2021, and has been updated since.