Golden Visa for Dubai – Your Path to UAE Long-Term Residency

Dubai offers more than luxury. It offers security, stability, and opportunity. With the Golden Visa for Dubai now welcomes global investors, professionals, and innovators to become long-term residents. This guide breaks down what the Golden Visa is, who qualifies, how to apply, and why this initiative matters.

What Is the Golden Visa Dubai

Golden Visa Dubai is a long-term residence program launched by the UAE government in 2019. It allows foreign nationals to live, work, or study in Dubai without needing a local sponsor. Valid for up to ten years, the visa is renewable and provides a stable foundation for families, entrepreneurs, and skilled workers.

Benefits of the Golden Visa for Dubai

• Ten-year renewable residency

• No sponsor or local partner required

• Full ownership of business in UAE mainland

• Family sponsorship: spouse, children, domestic workers

• No restrictions on time spent outside UAE

• Access to healthcare, education, property ownership

This program aims to attract long-term talent and capital. It is a strategic shift in how the UAE supports foreign nationals contributing to the economy.

Who Can Apply for Golden Visa Dubai

Eligibility spans various sectors. Below are the major categories.

1. Real Estate Investors

Property owners can qualify for a 10-year Golden Visa.

Requirements

• Property valued at AED 2 million or more

• Property must be completed, not under construction

• Property must be held for at least three years

Example
An investor purchased an apartment in Dubai Hills Estate worth AED 2.3 million. The title deed and valuation met requirements. The investor applied through the Dubai Land Department and received a 10-year Golden Visa within 20 days.

2. Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurs who own or co-own a startup registered in the UAE may qualify.

Requirements

• Startup must be tech-driven or innovative

• Approval from a UAE-accredited business incubator or authority

• Valid commercial license

Note
Golden Visa for entrepreneurs includes sponsorship of up to three executives, in addition to family.

3. Skilled Professionals

Professionals in science, medicine, engineering, education, and IT can apply.

Requirements

• Monthly salary of AED 30,000 or more

• Bachelor’s degree or higher

• Valid employment contract in UAE

Example
A senior engineer employed by a Dubai-based firm, earning AED 38,000 per month, qualified after submitting academic and employment documents. The visa was issued within two weeks.

4. Scientists and Researchers

Those contributing to scientific innovation are eligible.

Requirements

• PhD or Master’s degree in key disciplines

• Recognition or awards from reputable institutions

• Endorsement by relevant UAE authority

5. Creative Professionals

Artists, authors, designers, and others in cultural fields may apply.

Requirements

• Demonstrated impact in the creative industry

• Recognition by Dubai Culture and Arts Authority

• Portfolio or professional track record

6. Outstanding Students

Top-performing students in UAE schools or universities abroad are eligible.

Requirements

• GPA of 3.75 or above

• Academic recommendations

• Enrollment confirmation or graduation certificate

Click On - Apply for Golden Visa Dubai

How to Apply for Golden Visa Dubai

Step 1: Choose Eligibility Category

Identify the path that fits your profile: investor, entrepreneur, professional, or student.

Step 2: Collect Required Documents

For investors

• Title deed

• Property valuation

• Passport copy

• Proof of payment or mortgage clearance

For professionals

• Passport

• Employment contract

• Degree certificate

• Salary certificate

For students

• Academic transcripts

• Recommendation letters

Step 3: Submit Application

Where to apply

• General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA Dubai)

• Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP)

• Dubai Land Department for property-based applications

Step 4: Pay Visa Fees

Fees vary by category but average between AED 2,800 to AED 4,000. Some categories may incur additional health insurance or application processing charges.

Step 5: Complete Medical Test and Emirates ID Application

Applicants must undergo a standard medical fitness test. Upon clearance, apply for an Emirates ID, which serves as your primary identification within UAE.

Why Property Buyers Choose Golden Visa for Dubai

Dubai real estate remains a preferred investment. With the Golden Visa, it becomes more than financial—it becomes residential.

Example
A Canadian investor purchased a villa in Emaar Beachfront for AED 2.6 million. With valuation documents, title deed, and passport, the investor applied through Dubai Land Department. Within three weeks, the investor secured a 10-year Golden Visa, plus sponsorship for spouse and children.

Golden Visa Dubai for Business Owners

Golden Visa supports business continuity. Entrepreneurs in tech, healthcare, logistics, and other high-impact sectors gain flexibility and security.

Startup founder example
A founder of a logistics software platform launched in Dubai Internet City secured a business license and received endorsement from the Dubai Future Foundation. The visa was issued within one month.

Golden Visa Property Zones in Dubai

Properties in the following zones qualify for Golden Visa based on valuation:

1. Emaar Beachfront
Waterfront apartments, luxury living, starting from AED 2 million.

2. Downtown Dubai
High-value apartments, rental yields from short-term leases.

3. Dubai Hills Estate
Family-friendly villas and townhouses in gated communities.

4. Business Bay
Commercial-residential mix, popular with professionals and investors.

5. Palm Jumeirah
Luxury beachfront properties, capital appreciation potential.

StreamlineREI Support for Golden Visa Applicants

StreamlineREI provides complete assistance for applicants:

• Property consultation for visa-qualified projects

• Coordination with Dubai Land Department

• Valuation and legal documentation

• Visa application and submission

• Assistance with Emirates ID and family sponsorship

Golden Visa Dubai: What Changed in 2025

Recent updates include:

• Investors can now qualify even with mortgage, if AED 2 million equity is paid

• No minimum income required for retirees applying through real estate

• Remote workers and freelancers added to eligibility list

• Visa validity extended for more categories

These updates reflect the UAE’s goal of attracting more international residents.

Key Things to Know Before You Apply

• Only completed properties qualify; off-plan units not accepted

• Minimum ownership period is three years

• Valuation must be shown through approved channels

• Application must include valid health insurance

• Family sponsorship covers spouse, children, and domestic workers

FAQ's

Can I apply for the Golden Visa if my property is under mortgage?
Yes. If AED 2 million in equity has been paid, the property qualifies.

How long does the visa process take?
Average processing time is 2 to 4 weeks, depending on category.

Can I sponsor my family?
Yes. The visa allows full family sponsorship, including children and domestic help.

Do I need to live in Dubai to keep the visa active?
No. Golden Visa holders may stay outside UAE for over six months without cancellation.

Can I work under this visa?
Yes. Holders can work, invest, or run a business independently.

What happens after ten years?
The visa is renewable, provided eligibility continues.

Conclusion

The Golden Visa for Dubai offers more than long-term residency. It offers control, freedom, and opportunity. Whether you invest in property, run a business, or work as a skilled professional, this visa aligns your life with Dubai’s future.

StreamlineREI supports your journey from investment to residence. From finding qualifying properties to managing applications, we help you unlock Dubai with confidence and clarity.