The UAE Golden Visa offers foreign nationals a pathway to long-term residency in one of the world's fastest-growing economies. Launched in 2019, this programme grants eligible investors, entrepreneurs, professionals, and students the right to live, work, and study in the United Arab Emirates for five or ten years without requiring a local sponsor.
For UK citizens considering relocation or investment in the Gulf region, the Dubai Golden Visa and its UAE-wide equivalent represent a significant opportunity. Those also exploring US options may want to compare the E-2 treaty investor visa or the EB-5 investor green card. However, approval is never guaranteed. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) makes all final decisions, and requirements can change without notice.
This guide covers everything you need to know about UAE Golden Visa requirements, costs, benefits, and the application process based on official government sources current as of December 2024.
What Is the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residence permit that allows foreign nationals to live, work, and study in the United Arab Emirates. Unlike standard employment visas tied to a specific employer, the Golden Visa enables holders to sponsor themselves and their families independently.
The programme applies across all seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. It is not limited to Dubai, though Dubai remains the most popular destination for applicants.
Key points to understand:
- The Golden Visa is a residence permit, not citizenship. Holders remain citizens of their home country.
- Visas are issued for either five or ten years, depending on the eligibility category.
- The visa renews automatically provided the holder continues to meet eligibility criteria.
- There is no minimum stay requirement. Holders may live outside the UAE without losing their visa status.
The UAE Government introduced the Golden Visa to attract global talent and investment. According to the official UAE Government portal (u.ae, December 2024), the programme aims to "provide long-term residency to foreign talents who can contribute to the country's development."
However, meeting the published criteria does not guarantee approval. The ICP reviews each application individually and may request additional documentation or reject applications at its discretion.
UAE Golden Visa Eligibility Categories
Golden Visa UAE eligibility falls into four main categories: investors, entrepreneurs, specialised talents, and outstanding students. Each category has specific requirements and may qualify for either a five-year or ten-year visa.
Investors (Real Estate & Public Investments)
Investors represent the largest category of Golden Visa applicants. You may qualify through one of three investment routes:
Real Estate Investment Purchase property worth at least AED 2,000,000 (approximately £430,000). The property may be mortgaged or purchased off-plan, but you must hold it for a minimum of two years. Multiple properties can be combined to meet the threshold.
Public Investment or Bank Deposit Deposit AED 2,000,000 or more in an approved UAE investment fund or maintain this amount in a UAE bank account. You will need a letter from the fund or bank confirming the deposit.
Business Ownership Own or partner in a UAE-based enterprise that pays at least AED 250,000 in annual taxes, or establish a business with capital of at least AED 2,000,000. Documentation from the Ministry of Economy is required.
Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas may qualify for a Golden Visa if they meet the following criteria:
- Own a project or startup valued at AED 500,000 (approximately £107,000) or more
- Obtain approval from an official UAE business incubator or the Ministry of Economy
- Demonstrate the project's innovative nature and potential contribution to the UAE economy
This category typically results in a five-year visa, though exceptional entrepreneurs may qualify for ten years.
Specialised Talents & Professionals
The UAE seeks to attract professionals with exceptional skills in specific fields. Eligible categories include:
- Doctors and healthcare professionals: Require approval from the Ministry of Health and a recommendation letter
- Scientists and researchers: Need endorsement from the UAE Council for Scientists or evidence of significant awards
- Inventors: Must hold patents recognised by the Ministry of Economy
- Creative professionals: Artists, writers, designers, and cultural figures require recognition from the Ministry of Culture, including awards, published works, or membership in prestigious organisations
- Athletes: Need endorsement from the relevant sports authority
A new rule introduced in Dubai in January 2025 requires highly skilled professionals applying under the employee category to have worked for the same entity for a minimum of two years (Newland Chase, January 2025).
Outstanding Students & Graduates
Top-performing students may qualify for a Golden Visa based on academic achievement:
- Secondary school graduates from UAE schools with a minimum grade of 95%
- University graduates from UAE institutions with a GPA of 3.75 or higher
- Graduates from the world's top 100 universities (based on recognised rankings) with a GPA of 3.5 or higher
Student visas are typically issued for five years and may be renewed upon meeting ongoing criteria.
Table 1: Golden Visa Eligibility Summary
| Category | Minimum Threshold | Typical Visa Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate Investor | AED 2,000,000 (£430,000) property value | 10 years |
| Public Investment/Deposit | AED 2,000,000 (£430,000) | 10 years |
| Business Owner | AED 250,000 (£54,000) annual tax OR AED 2,000,000 capital | 10 years |
| Entrepreneur | AED 500,000 (£107,000) project value + incubator approval | 5 years |
| Specialised Talent | Ministry endorsement required | 10 years |
| Outstanding Student | 95% secondary grade OR 3.75+ university GPA | 5 years |
Source: ICP official portal, December 2024
UAE Golden Visa Requirements by Category
Understanding the specific UAE Golden Visa requirements for your category helps avoid delays and rejected applications. Requirements vary slightly between emirates and application channels.
General Requirements (All Categories)
All applicants must provide:
- Valid passport with at least six months remaining validity
- Passport-sized photograph with white background
- Health insurance valid in the UAE
- Medical fitness certificate from an approved UAE health centre
- Emirates ID (issued during the application process)
- Proof of eligibility specific to your category
Table 2: Category-Specific Document Requirements
| Category | Required Documents |
|---|---|
| Real Estate Investor | Title deed(s) showing property value of AED 2M+; if mortgaged, letter from bank confirming property value |
| Public Investment | Letter from approved investment fund confirming deposit of AED 2M+ |
| Bank Deposit | Bank statement showing AED 2M+ balance |
| Business Owner | Trade licence; tax payment certificate showing AED 250k+ annual tax; letter from Ministry of Economy |
| Entrepreneur | Business plan; incubator approval letter; proof of project value |
| Doctor | Medical licence; Ministry of Health approval; recommendation letter |
| Scientist | Research publications; UAE Council for Scientists endorsement OR international awards |
| Inventor | Patent certificate recognised by Ministry of Economy |
| Creative Professional | Portfolio; awards; Ministry of Culture recommendation |
| Student | Academic transcripts; graduation certificate; university ranking evidence (if applicable) |
Source: ICP and GDRFAD official portals, December 2024
Important Considerations
- Documents issued outside the UAE typically require attestation from the UAE Embassy in the issuing country.
- Translations into Arabic or English may be required for documents in other languages.
- Requirements can change. Always verify current requirements on the ICP portal (icp.gov.ae) before applying.
- Processing may take longer if additional verification is needed.
How Much Does the UAE Golden Visa Cost?
The UAE Golden Visa cost includes government processing fees, medical examinations, Emirates ID issuance, and health insurance. These fees are separate from any investment amount required for eligibility.
Table 3: Golden Visa Fee Breakdown
| Fee Type | Approximate Cost (AED) | Approximate Cost (GBP) |
|---|---|---|
| Government processing fee | 2,657 | £570 |
| Medical fitness examination | 300–500 | £65–£107 |
| Emirates ID (10 years) | 1,370 | £295 |
| Emirates ID (5 years) | 770 | £165 |
| Health insurance (annual) | 1,500–5,000+ | £320–£1,070+ |
| Visa stamping fee | 500 | £107 |
| Total estimate (excluding investment) | 5,500–10,000+ | £1,180–£2,150+ |
Sources: ICP fee schedule, December 2024; UAE Government portal
Additional Costs to Consider
- Property registration fees: If investing in real estate, Dubai Land Department charges 4% of the property value plus administrative fees
- Document attestation: Varies by country of origin
- Translation services: AED 100–300 per document
- Typing centre fees: AED 50–200 for application assistance
The UAE Golden Visa price does not include the investment itself. For real estate investors, the minimum AED 2,000,000 (approximately £430,000) property purchase represents the primary cost. This investment may appreciate or depreciate in value, and property markets carry inherent risks.
Fees are subject to change. The ICP portal lists current government fees, though third-party service providers may charge additional amounts.
UAE Golden Visa Benefits
The Golden Visa offers several advantages over standard UAE residence permits. However, each benefit comes with conditions that applicants should understand before applying.
Primary Benefits
- Self-sponsorship: You do not need an employer or local sponsor to maintain your visa. This provides flexibility to change jobs, start businesses, or retire in the UAE without affecting your residency status.
- Family sponsorship: Golden Visa holders may sponsor their spouse, children (regardless of age), and domestic helpers. Family members receive residence permits valid for the same duration as the primary holder.
- No minimum stay requirement: Unlike some residence programmes, the UAE Golden Visa does not require holders to spend a minimum number of days in the country. You may travel freely without risking visa cancellation.
- 100% business ownership: Foreign nationals with Golden Visas may own UAE businesses outright without requiring a local partner. This represents a significant advantage over previous regulations requiring 51% Emirati ownership in certain sectors.
- Banking and financial access: Holders can open UAE bank accounts, access financing, and conduct business more easily than visitors or short-term residents.
- Long-term stability: A ten-year renewable visa provides security for families planning education, career development, or retirement in the UAE.
Important Caveats
- Tax residency is separate: Holding a Golden Visa does not automatically make you a UAE tax resident. Tax residency typically requires spending 183 days or more in the UAE within a 12-month period and meeting other criteria set by the Federal Tax Authority. Consult a tax adviser regarding your specific situation.
- Healthcare is not free: The UAE does not have a public healthcare system for residents. Health insurance is mandatory but comes at the holder's expense.
- Investment risks: Real estate values fluctuate. A property worth AED 2,000,000 today may decline in value. If your property falls below the threshold at renewal, your eligibility could be affected.
- Rule changes: The UAE Government may modify eligibility criteria, fees, or benefits at any time. Current benefits are not guaranteed for the full visa duration.
How to Apply for a UAE Golden Visa (Step-by-Step)
The application process for a UAE Golden Visa involves several stages. Most applicants can complete the process within two to four weeks, though complex cases may take longer.
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility Category
Review the eligibility criteria and identify which category applies to your situation. If you qualify under multiple categories, choose the one with the strongest documentation.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Collect all necessary documents for your category. Ensure foreign documents are properly attested and translated if required. Missing or incorrect documents are the most common cause of delays.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Apply through one of the following channels:
- ICP Smart Services portal (icp.gov.ae): The primary online application system
- Amer service centres: Physical locations in Dubai offering assisted applications
- GDRFAD offices: General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs offices in each emirate
- Approved typing centres: Third-party centres that assist with application submission
For real estate investors in Dubai, developers such as Emaar and Aldar offer Golden Visa application assistance for property purchasers.
Step 4: Pay Government Fees
Fees are payable online through the ICP portal or at service centres. Keep payment receipts for your records.
Step 5: Complete Medical Fitness Examination
Visit an approved medical centre for the required health screening. Results are typically available within 24–48 hours and are submitted directly to the ICP.
Step 6: Biometrics and Emirates ID
Attend an Emirates ID centre to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph). Your Emirates ID will be issued and linked to your Golden Visa.
Step 7: Visa Stamping
Once approved, your Golden Visa is stamped in your passport. You may also receive an electronic copy accessible through the ICP app.
Processing Timeline
Standard applications take two to four weeks from submission to visa stamping. Factors that may extend processing time include:
- Incomplete documentation
- Additional verification requirements
- High application volumes
- Complex business structures requiring Ministry review
There is no way to guarantee approval timelines. The ICP processes applications in the order received and may request additional information at any stage.
5-Year vs 10-Year Golden Visa: Key Differences
The UAE offers both five-year and ten-year Golden Visas depending on your eligibility category. Understanding the differences helps you plan appropriately.
Table 4: 5-Year vs 10-Year Golden Visa Comparison
| Feature | 5-Year Golden Visa | 10-Year Golden Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Validity | 5 years, renewable | 10 years, renewable |
| Eligible categories | Entrepreneurs; students; some talent categories | Investors; established professionals; scientists |
| Minimum investment | AED 500,000 (entrepreneurs) | AED 2,000,000 |
| Renewal process | Must continue meeting criteria | Automatic if criteria still met |
| Family inclusion | Yes | Yes |
| Emirates ID validity | 5 years | 10 years |
| Government fees | Lower (shorter Emirates ID) | Higher (longer Emirates ID) |
Source: UAE Government portal, December 2024
Which Should You Choose?
If you qualify for both options, the ten-year visa typically offers better value despite higher upfront fees. The longer validity reduces administrative burden and provides greater stability.
However, the five-year visa may be appropriate if:
- You do not yet meet the AED 2,000,000 investment threshold
- Your situation may change within five years
- You prefer to test UAE residency before committing to a larger investment
Both visa types include the same core benefits: self-sponsorship, family inclusion, and no minimum stay requirement.
UAE Golden Visa New Rules 2025
The UAE regularly updates Golden Visa regulations. Several changes have taken effect in late 2024 and early 2025 that applicants should understand.
Key Updates
Mortgaged and Off-Plan Properties Now Eligible Investors may now qualify using properties with mortgages or those purchased off-plan, provided the total value meets the AED 2,000,000 threshold. Previously, only fully owned properties qualified. However, the property must be held for a minimum of two years (UAE Government portal, December 2024).
Dubai Employment Requirement for Skilled Workers A new rule in Dubai requires employees applying under the highly skilled professional category to have worked for the same employer for at least two years. This does not affect investors, entrepreneurs, or those applying through other talent categories (Newland Chase, January 2025).
Expanded Creative Professional Categories The Ministry of Culture has broadened eligibility for creative professionals to include additional fields such as digital content creation, game design, and new media arts. Specific criteria are available on the Ministry of Culture portal.
Streamlined Application Process The ICP has introduced faster processing for straightforward applications meeting all criteria. Some applicants report receiving approval within one to two weeks, though this is not guaranteed.
Potential Future Changes
The UAE Government has indicated plans to continue expanding the Golden Visa programme. Possible future developments may include:
- Lower investment thresholds for specific categories
- New categories for remote workers and digital nomads
- Enhanced benefits for long-term holders
These changes are not confirmed. Always verify current rules on official government portals before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
How hard is it to get a Golden Visa in Dubai?
Difficulty depends on your eligibility category. For real estate investors meeting the AED 2,000,000 threshold with proper documentation, approval rates are relatively high. The process is administrative rather than competitive.
However, approval is never automatic. The ICP reviews each application individually and may reject applications for incomplete documentation, concerns about fund sources, or other reasons. Categories requiring ministry endorsements (scientists, inventors, creative professionals) involve additional evaluation stages.
Most straightforward investor applications are processed within two to four weeks. Complex cases take longer.
What happens after 10 years of Golden Visa in Dubai?
The ten-year Golden Visa renews automatically provided you continue meeting the eligibility criteria. According to the UAE Government portal (December 2024), holders simply complete a medical examination and pay the relevant government fees to receive another ten-year visa.
You do not need to reapply or provide extensive new documentation if your circumstances remain unchanged. However, if your investment value has fallen below the threshold or your employment situation has changed, you may need to demonstrate continued eligibility.
Can I sponsor my family with a UAE Golden Visa?
Yes. Golden Visa holders may sponsor their spouse, children of any age, and domestic helpers. Family members receive residence permits valid for the same duration as the primary holder's visa.
For children over 18, some additional documentation may be required to prove dependency. Domestic helper sponsorship is limited to a reasonable number based on family size and accommodation.
Family members' visas are linked to the primary holder. If the primary visa is cancelled or not renewed, family visas are also affected.
Do I need to live in the UAE to keep my Golden Visa?
No. The Golden Visa has no minimum stay requirement. You may live outside the UAE for extended periods without losing your residency status. This differs from standard UAE employment visas, which are cancelled if the holder remains outside the country for more than six months.
However, maintaining UAE tax residency (if desired) typically requires spending 183 days or more in the country annually. The Golden Visa and tax residency are separate matters.
Can I work for any employer with a Golden Visa?
Yes. Golden Visa holders are not tied to a specific employer. You may work for any UAE company, start your own business, work remotely for overseas employers, or choose not to work at all.
This flexibility represents a significant advantage over standard employment visas, which are cancelled when you leave a job.
Is the UAE Golden Visa the same as citizenship?
No. The Golden Visa is a long-term residence permit, not citizenship. Holders remain citizens of their home country and do not receive a UAE passport.
The UAE has a separate citizenship-by-naturalisation pathway, but it operates independently from the Golden Visa programme and has different (generally more restrictive) criteria.
Golden Visa holders have the right to live, work, and own property in the UAE, but they do not have voting rights or other privileges reserved for Emirati citizens.
Related Immigration Resources
E-2 Visa Guide
US investment visa with flexible requirements. Learn about the E-2 treaty investor visa.
EB-5 Visa Guide
Path to US permanent residency through investment. Complete EB-5 requirements guide.
E-2 Visa Requirements
Detailed E-2 visa requirements including investment amounts and eligibility criteria.
Disclaimer: For informational purposes only. Not legal advice. Immigration outcomes are determined by the UAE government.