The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency program launched in 2019 to attract global investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, professionals, and students to live, work, or study in the UAE.
By offering 5- or 10-year renewable visas with exclusive benefits, the Golden Visa reflects the UAE’s ambition to diversify its economy and establish itself as a global hub for talent and innovation.
In 2025, the program has been expanded to include additional categories and relaxed eligibility requirements, making it more accessible than ever.
What is the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a residency program designed for individuals who bring significant value to the UAE’s economy and society. Unlike traditional work visas that require a local sponsor, the Golden Visa allows qualified foreign nationals to self-sponsor and reside in the UAE for extended periods.
This visa provides long-term stability and greater freedom for individuals who want to establish a secure life or business base in the country. Applicants can also sponsor family members, including spouses, children, and domestic staff.
Eligibility Categories
As of 2025, the UAE Golden Visa is available to a broad range of individuals across multiple categories:
Investors: Real estate investors and those investing in public investments or businesses qualify for long-term residency. Minimum investment amounts apply, and documentation must be provided.
Entrepreneurs: Founders or co-founders of startups or established businesses, especially in tech or innovation-driven sectors, are eligible.
Skilled Professionals: Individuals with specialized skills in medicine, science, engineering, law, and IT who earn a high salary and hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Outstanding Students and Graduates: Exceptional students in UAE-based or internationally recognized universities are eligible based on academic performance.
Humanitarian Pioneers: Individuals who have contributed meaningfully to charitable work or humanitarian efforts.
Frontline Heroes: Workers such as medical professionals who served during pandemics and other national emergencies.
New for 2025: The UAE has expanded eligibility to include professionals in digital content creation, luxury yacht ownership, e-sports, and specialized education roles, recognizing emerging global trends.
Real Estate Investors
Real estate investment is one of the most straightforward paths to securing a Golden Visa. Investors can qualify by:
- Owning property or properties with a total value of at least AED 2 million.
- If the property is mortgaged, the investor must still have at least AED 2 million in equity.
- The property must not be fully financed through a loan; it should reflect a genuine financial commitment.
- An official letter from the Dubai Land Department (or equivalent authority) confirming ownership and value is required.
This option is especially attractive to expatriates who wish to make Dubai their permanent home while benefiting from its thriving real estate market and world-class infrastructure.
Entrepreneurs and Business Owners
Entrepreneurs can secure a Golden Visa by demonstrating:
- Ownership or partnership in a startup or business based in the UAE that is innovative or future-focused.
- A business project recognized by an accredited UAE business incubator.
- Proof of business viability and housing in the UAE.
This category is ideal for tech innovators, startup founders, and individuals developing scalable ventures in the UAE.
Skilled Professionals
Professionals in key fields are in high demand and can apply for the Golden Visa if they meet the following conditions:
- Hold a valid work contract in a high-priority field (e.g., healthcare, AI, cybersecurity, law).
- Have a university degree (bachelor’s or higher).
- Earn a monthly salary of AED 30,000 or more.
Applicants in this category should also be classified within the first or second occupational level as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
Outstanding Students and Graduates
The UAE also recognizes academic excellence as a pathway to residency. Students and graduates can qualify by:
- Scoring a minimum of 95% in high school (public or private schools).
- Graduating from UAE universities with a GPA of 3.8 or higher.
- Graduating from top-ranked international universities.
This visa option helps retain top talent and encourages families to consider the UAE as a long-term education destination.
Application Process
Applying for a Golden Visa involves several steps:
- Check Eligibility: Determine which category you qualify for based on profession, education, or investment.
- Document Preparation: Collect necessary documents such as passport, photos, property ownership proof, educational qualifications, and employment letters.
- Submit Application: Apply through either the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai.
- Medical Exam and Biometrics: Complete a medical fitness test and provide biometric data as required by UAE authorities.
- Visa Approval and Issuance: Upon approval, applicants receive their residence visa and Emirates ID, granting full access to UAE residency benefits.
Processing times vary but can be completed within a few weeks if documentation is in order.
Costs
Here are typical costs for the UAE Golden Visa:
- 10-Year Golden Visa: Approximately AED 10,250, covering application fees, Emirates ID, and medical tests.
- 2-Year Property Investor Visa: Starts from AED 11,100 for property investments of AED 750,000 or more.
Additional service charges or consultancy fees may apply if working with third-party agencies or legal advisors. Costs can also vary depending on the emirate and type of visa.
Why the UAE Golden Visa Is Attractive in 2025
The UAE’s low-tax environment, high safety standards, and exceptional lifestyle options make the Golden Visa one of the most sought-after residency programs globally. It offers long-term security for professionals, business owners, and families looking to build their futures in a stable, well-connected country with access to global markets. The program’s expansion to cover digital industries and next-generation entrepreneurs reflects the UAE’s adaptability to global trends.
Simona Luxury Real Estate: Your Trusted Partner for Investment-Linked Golden Visas
If you’re considering investing in UAE real estate to obtain a Golden Visa, Simona Luxury Real Estate is your ideal partner. With a deep understanding of the Golden Visa requirements and access to exclusive property listings in Dubai’s most desirable communities, we provide personalized guidance every step of the way.
Whether you’re a seasoned investor or a first-time buyer, our team can help you:
- Identify high-yield, Golden Visa-eligible properties
- Handle all legal and documentation requirements
- Navigate the visa process with confidence and transparency
Simona Luxury Real Estate doesn’t just sell properties—we build bridges to opportunity. Get in touch with us today and take the first step toward a long-term future in the UAE through strategic property investment.
Let us help you find your dream home—and your place in Dubai.