A Guide to Dubai’s Golden Visa Categories for Expats

1. Investor in Public Investments

Individuals with a keen interest in investments are warmly welcomed in Dubai. To qualify for a Golden Visa, one must either possess a deposit of 2 million dirhams or own a company meeting specific criteria. This can be achieved through a valid commercial or industrial license with a minimum capital of 2 million Dirhams, not financed by a loan. Alternatively, a letter from the Federal Tax Authority confirming ownership of a company paying no less than 250 thousand Dirhams annually to the government is also acceptable.

2. Real Estate Investor

For those inclined towards real estate, Dubai’s Golden Visa for real estate investors presents a lucrative opportunity. To qualify, one must own properties valued at 2 million dirhams or more, with a letter from the Real Estate Registration Department confirming ownership and stating that the property is not subject to a loan.

3. Entrepreneurs

Aspiring entrepreneurs with a project value exceeding 500,000 Dirhams can find a welcoming home in Dubai. To secure a Golden Visa, one needs approval letters from both a UAE-based auditor confirming the project’s value and the relevant emirate authorities endorsing the project’s technical or futuristic nature.

4. Special Talent – (Doctors)

Medical professionals seeking a Golden Visa must obtain an approval letter from the Ministry of Health in the country to practice the profession of medicine.

5. Special Talent – Creative People in Culture and Art

For individuals in the fields of culture and art, a Golden Visa can be secured with an approved letter from the Department of Culture and Arts in the relevant emirate.

6. Special Talent – Executive Directors

Accomplished executive directors can secure a Golden Visa by holding a certified degree, possessing a minimum of 5 years of experience, earning a salary not less than AED 50,000, and having a valid work contract.

7. Special Talent – Fields of Science and Athletes

Professionals in the fields of science and athletes can obtain a Golden Visa with an approved letter from the Department of Culture and Arts in the relevant emirate.

8. Special Talent – PhD Holders

PhD holders can secure a Golden Visa by providing a certified copy of their PhD from the Ministry of Education in one of the priority disciplines.

9. Special Talent – Specialists in Engineering and Science

Specialists in engineering and science fields such as epidemiology, artificial intelligence, computer engineering, electronics engineering, software engineering, electrical engineering, genetics engineering, and biotechnology engineering can secure a Golden Visa with a certified copy of their university degree and a work contract in one of the mentioned specializations.

10. Outstanding Students – (High School Student)

High school students aspiring for a Golden Visa can obtain it by presenting a recommendation letter from the Ministry of Education.

11. Outstanding Students – (University Student)

University students with a GPA not less than 3.8 can secure a Golden Visa with a recommendation letter from the university.

Dubai’s Golden Visa categories cater to a diverse range of talents and aspirations, making it an appealing destination for expatriates seeking not just a change of location but also an opportunity to thrive in a global hub of innovation and growth. Whether one is an investor, entrepreneur, artist, or student, Dubai’s Golden Visa offers a pathway to realizing dreams in this dynamic city.