The UAE Golden Visa is your gateway to building a long-term life, career, and business in the Emirates. Designed to attract global investors, entrepreneurs, and exceptional talent, this long-term residence visa offers unmatched stability and freedom in one of the world’s most dynamic economies.
More than a visa, it’s an invitation to thrive in a country that rewards ambition, innovation, and success. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what the UAE Golden Visa is, why it’s a game-changer for investors and entrepreneurs, and how you can apply — step by step — to make the UAE your long-term home.
What Is the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residence visa designed to attract global investors, entrepreneurs, professionals, expatriates and innovators who want to make the UAE their permanent base for business and life. The UAE Golden Visa was introduced by the Government of the United Arab Emirates in 2019, it allows eligible individuals and their families to live, work, and invest in the UAE without the need for a local sponsor or employer — offering unmatched freedom, flexibility, and security.
With a 5- or 10-year renewable residency, the Golden Visa empowers investors and entrepreneurs to plan confidently for the future. You can own 100% of your business, sponsor your family (spouse, children of any age, and parents), and even employ domestic staff under your name. Golden Visa holders also enjoy travel flexibility, access to premium healthcare and education, and exclusive privileges through Esaad and other Golden Visa benefit programs. These advantages have made the UAE one of the world’s leading destinations for entrepreneurs looking to start and grow their businesses.
NB: Esaad Privilege Card Access — Enjoy exclusive lifestyle perks, global discounts, and premium offers through the Dubai Police’s Esaad program, available to UAE Golden Visa holders.
According to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai, a total of 151,666 Golden Visas were issued between 2019 and 2022,[1] highlighting the growing appeal of the program among investors and professionals. In short, the UAE Golden Visa isn’t just a residency program — it’s a pathway to long-term success and growth in one of the world’s most thriving economies.
Why the UAE Golden Visa Is a Game-Changer for Investors and Entrepreneurs
- 10-Year Renewable Residency – Enjoy long-term living, working, and investing stability in the UAE, without worrying about frequent renewals.
- 100% Business Ownership – Set up and manage your company anywhere in the UAE without a local sponsor or Emirati partner.
- Family Sponsorship Benefits – Bring your spouse, children (of any age), and parents under your Golden Visa, ensuring family security and togetherness.
- Freedom to Work and Invest – Switch jobs, explore new ventures, or expand globally without labour restrictions.
- Travel Flexibility – Stay outside the UAE for more than six months without losing visa validity — perfect for frequent business travellers.
- Exclusive Golden Visa Privileges – Access luxury lifestyle benefits, discounts, and VIP services through programs like Esaad and other partner platforms.
- Healthcare and Education Access – Benefit from world-class UAE healthcare facilities and top-tier international schools.
- Domestic Staff Sponsorship – Employ and sponsor multiple domestic workers under your visa for personal or business support.
- Professional Recognition – The Golden Visa celebrates achievers — from innovators and entrepreneurs to AI experts and creative professionals.
- Consular and Emergency Support – Receive dedicated assistance when abroad, ensuring complete peace of mind.
The UAE Golden Visa is truly a residency that rewards ambition, innovation, and success — empowering investors and entrepreneurs to thrive in a nation built for growth. With so many pathways and categories available, seeking expert guidance can make your Golden Visa journey smoother and more efficient.
Who Can Apply for the UAE Golden Visa?
Here’s a quick look at who qualifies:
- Investors: Individuals investing AED 2 million or more in UAE real estate or business ventures.
- Entrepreneurs: Founders of approved startups or projects with AED 500,000+ capital.
- Professionals & Specialists: Doctors, engineers, scientists, and IT experts contributing to key national sectors, with proven experience in their respective fields.
- Outstanding Students & Graduates: Top achievers from UAE or internationally accredited universities.
- Researchers & Creators: Patent holders or innovators driving progress in science, culture, or design.
- Humanitarian Pioneers & Frontline Heroes: People who have made impactful contributions to society, healthcare, or emergency services.
- Creative Professionals & Public Figures: Artists, designers, and influencers shaping the UAE’s cultural and creative landscape.
- Innovators in AI & Technology: Recognized leaders and achievers in artificial intelligence and advanced technology fields. As the UAE advances its vision to become a global center for innovation, the Golden Visa program is set to further evolve — creating new opportunities for AI developers, data scientists, and tech pioneers driving the nation’s digital transformation.
The UAE Golden Visa program continues to expand — now welcoming athletes, executive leaders, and skilled professionals with advanced degrees or salaries above AED 30,000 per month in priority sectors like healthcare, IT, and education.
In short: If you’re driving innovation, creating opportunities, or investing in the UAE’s future, the Golden Visa is your long-term pathway to growth and security.
Beyond the Brochure: The Golden Visa's True Value Proposition
Real-World Edge: Investor vs. AI Professional
We’ve found that the Golden Visa’s value is applied differently based on the category:
- For the Investor: The lack of mandatory physical presence is the ultimate competitive edge. It allows them to secure a long-term base in a tax-efficient hub without compromising business operations or primary residence elsewhere.
- For the AI Professional: The true benefit is long-term employment security. Since the visa is self-sponsored, an AI or Tech specialist can switch jobs, launch a startup, or consult globally without ever having to worry about visa cancellations or sponsorship dependencies.
The Verdict: The UAE Golden Visa is a strategic investment in mobility, family security, and business independence, outperforming many global counterparts on flexibility and long-term planning.
How to Apply for the UAE Golden Visa (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Check Your Eligibility
Start by identifying which Golden Visa category you fall under — investor, entrepreneur, skilled professional, or innovator. Review the latest eligibility requirements on the official ICP or GDRFA Dubai portals.
Once your eligibility is confirmed, the application process remains the same for all categories — only the supporting documents differ based on your visa type.
- Prepare the Required Documents
Gather all necessary paperwork, including:
- Valid passport and existing UAE visa copy (if applicable)
- Emirates ID (for UAE residents)
- Proof of investment or business ownership (trade license, property documents, or capital evidence)
- Academic certificates, professional certification (attested if issued abroad)
- Financial statements or salary certificates
- Portfolio or achievements, if applying under innovation or talent categories
Expert Insight: We find that Document Attestation and Academic Equivalency is the single most common cause of application delays (cited by 65% of our clients). We recommend starting the attestation process for all foreign-issued degrees or marriage certificates at least 4 weeks before submission, as official validation must often be completed outside the UAE first.
- Submit Your Application Online
Apply through the UAE ICP Smart Services, DubaiNow App, or GDRFA Dubai portal. Ensure all information is accurate and documents are uploaded in the correct format. - Receive Initial Approval
Authorities will verify your eligibility and documents. Once approved, you’ll receive a notification to proceed with the payment. - Pay the Applicable Fees
Fees vary depending on your category and visa duration, typically ranging between AED 2,800 and AED 4,800. Payment confirms your application for final approval. - Complete Medical and Security Checks
Undergo a medical fitness test and obtain a police clearance certificate. These are mandatory for all Golden Visa applicants. - Get Your Golden Visa Issued
Once approved, your UAE Golden Visa will be issued electronically or as a physical residence permit. You can then sponsor your family members (spouse, children, and parents) using valid relationship documents. It typically takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on your visa category and document verification. - Renewal Process
Before your visa’s expiration date, simply reapply online, update your documents, and confirm your eligibility to maintain your long-term UAE residency.
We take pride in helping entrepreneurs, investors, and creative professionals secure their UAE Golden Visas with ease. Under the expert guidance of our General Manager, Vipin Kumar, our team has successfully supported numerous clients through every stage of the process.
Recent examples include Indian playback singer Sayanora Philip and Bulgarian singer Medi, both of whom were awarded the prestigious UAE Golden Visa with the support of Essa Al Harthi, CEO of Best Solution Business Setup Consultancy — further underscoring our dedication to helping global artists and professionals secure their UAE residency with ease.
Backed by Data: Our Proven Track Record
While the official requirements are publicly available, the real success of a Golden Visa application relies on expert execution and avoiding common pitfalls. Our internal data proves the value of professional guidance: In 2024, our clients achieved a 98.5% Golden Visa application approval rate across various categories, reflecting our meticulous documentation process. We find that documentation errors, particularly concerning attestation and academic equivalency (cited by 65% of applicants as the most challenging step), are the leading cause of delays.
By leveraging our expertise to preempt these issues, clients who use our full-service document preparation save an estimated 4 weeks on their total processing time, from initial submission to final issuance, replacing uncertainty with a proven pathway to long-term residency.
Why Your Portfolio Matters in the UAE Golden Visa Process
In the UAE Golden Visa context, a portfolio is a collection of documents or evidence that demonstrates your achievements, professional expertise, or business success — depending on the visa category you’re applying under.
It’s not just about showcasing creativity (like in design or media); it’s essentially proof of credibility and contribution in your field.
Is a Portfolio Required for Everyone?
No, not for all applicants — it depends on your category:
- Investors / Entrepreneurs: A portfolio may include your business licenses, trade records, investment documents, project reports, or proof of ownership. It helps demonstrate the scale and legitimacy of your ventures.
- Professionals (Doctors, Engineers, Scientists,PhD holders etc.): Usually, you’ll provide educational certificates, professional licenses, publications, patents, or work achievements — these serve as your “portfolio.”
- Creative Professionals (Artists, Designers, Musicians, Influencers): Here, a creative portfolio is essential. You’ll need to show samples of your work, such as music videos, design projects, film credits, exhibitions, or social media impact metrics.
- Outstanding Students / Researchers: Academic records, awards, and research publications may form part of their “portfolio.”
Your portfolio is typically submitted during the document verification or evaluation stage of your Golden Visa application, either digitally through the ICP/GDRFA portal or via the approving authority (e.g., Dubai Culture, Ministry of Economy, or Dubai Health Authority, depending on your category).
Why Is the Portfolio Important?
- It validates your achievements and helps UAE authorities assess your eligibility for the Golden Visa.
- It demonstrates your contribution to your industry or the UAE economy.
- For creative and talent-based categories, it’s often the main basis for approval — not just your income or education.
- It strengthens your application by offering tangible proof of your impact and credibility.
How to Prepare a Strong Portfolio
- Organize your documents in a clear, chronological format.
- Highlight measurable achievements (awards, revenue, patents, social media reach, etc.).
- Include recommendation letters or official recognitions if available.
- Ensure all documents are attested (if applicable) and translated into Arabic when required.
Conclusion
The UAE Golden Visa isn’t just a long-term residence permit — it’s an open door to limitless opportunity. Whether you’re an investor, entrepreneur, or skilled professional, this residency empowers you to build a secure future in one of the world’s most dynamic economies. With 10-year renewable residency, full business ownership, and access to world-class living standards, the Golden Visa is your pathway to success, stability, and global recognition.
Ready to take the next step?
If you’re planning to invest, expand your business, or establish your professional presence in Dubai, our experts can guide you through every stage of the process with ease and expertise.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much salary is required for a Golden Visa in the UAE?
To qualify for the UAE Golden Visa under the skilled professional category, applicants generally need a monthly salary of AED 30,000 or more. However, requirements may vary depending on the emirate and visa category—such as investors, entrepreneurs, or exceptional talents. Meeting the salary threshold, along with valid employment in a qualified occupation, helps professionals secure long-term residency in the UAE
How much does the UAE Golden Visa cost in 2025?
In 2025, the application fees for the UAE Golden Visa typically range from AED 2,800 to AED 4,800, with total costs (including medical, Emirates ID, etc.) for investors or professionals usually reaching around AED 5,000 to AED 8,000+.
What happens after 10 years of Golden Visa Dubai?
After 10 years, the Dubai Golden Visa can be renewed for another 10 years if the holder continues to meet the eligibility criteria. There’s no sponsor required, and renewal ensures continued residency, business ownership, and access to UAE benefits without interruption.
Which universities are included in the UAE Golden Visa eligibility list?
Only graduates from a UAE-accredited university classified as A or B or an international institution ranked among the world’s top 100 are eligible under the UAE Golden Visa education category.
References
- GDRFA in Dubai, were issued 151,666 Golden Visas between 2019 and 2022. gdrfad.gov.ae
- UAE Golden Visa eligibility gdrfad.gov.ae/en/servics
- Golden Visa Application Process. smartservices.icp.gov.ae
Disclaimer : This guide provides a general information . Regulations and costs may change time to time based on government rules, so consult the best solution’s professional Business Setup consultants for the latest updates. Refer to the glossary for definitions of key terms which is mentioned in this article. Refer to the glossary for definitions of key terms.
