Over the past decades, Dubai has become an international hotspot for professionals, entrepreneurs and investors. As part of these efforts to promote growth and talent, in 2019 the government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) launched the Golden Visa-program was introduced. This special visa offers long-term residence rights and special benefits for selected foreigners. With the Dubai Golden Visa allows qualified individuals to live, work and invest in the UAE for up to 10 years without the need for a local sponsor.

In this article, we take a closer look at the Dubai Golden Visa, explain the benefits and requirements and why it is particularly attractive for entrepreneurs, investors and skilled workers.

What is the Dubai Golden Visa?

The Dubai Golden Visa is a long-term residence visa that is issued for a period of 5 or 10 years and can be renewed automatically. It is aimed at select groups including investors, entrepreneurs, highly skilled professionals, researchers in science and technology, and exceptional talents in various fields such as arts and culture. The main objective of this visa program is to attract talented people to the UAE and offer them the opportunity to settle long-term and contribute to the economic progress of the country.

Who can obtain the Dubai Golden Visa?

The Golden Visa program is aimed at different categories of people. Here are the main groups that qualify for the visa:

1. Investors

Investors who invest in real estate or companies in the UAE can obtain the Golden Visa for 5 or 10 years, depending on the amount of their investment. The minimum requirement for real estate investors is usually one Minimum value of AED 2 million (approx. 500,000 euros). Entrepreneurs who invest in start-ups or established companies can also benefit from this program.

2. Specialists and talents

Particularly highly qualified specialists from the fields of Science, technology, medicine and Information technology are supported. Doctors, engineers, researchers and professionals with exceptional qualifications can apply for the Golden Visa if they have special skills and successes in their respective industries.

3. Students and graduates

Outstanding students from the UAE or from international universities who can demonstrate exceptional academic performance are eligible for the Golden Visa. It is part of the strategy to retain talented young people in the UAE and offer them long-term prospects in the Emirates.

4. Entrepreneurs

Founders and entrepreneurs who have successfully started a business or implemented innovative business ideas in Dubai or the UAE can also benefit from the Golden Visa. The government actively promotes start-ups and innovative business solutions that contribute to economic diversification and growth.

5. Artists and creatives

Special talents in the following areas Art, culture and sport can also receive the Golden Visa. This is aimed at musicians, actors, painters and athletes who have achieved international recognition and success.

Advantages of the Dubai Golden Visa

The Golden Visa offers many advantages that make life in the UAE more attractive and safer. Here are the most important ones:

1. Long-term stay

In contrast to conventional visa systems, which in the UAE are often linked to an employer or sponsor, the Golden Visa Collateral for 5 or 10 yearswithout the need for constant renewal. It gives the owner and his family the opportunity to live permanently in Dubai or the UAE.

2. No need for a local sponsor

The Golden Visa eliminates the traditional obligation to have a local sponsor or employer. This offers entrepreneurs and investors more freedom to run their business independently without being tied to local partnerships.

3. Family members included

Golden Visa holders can also include their immediate family members (spouse and children) on the visa. This ensures long-term stability and allows families to live and work together in the UAE.

4. Easy access to banks and finances

The Golden Visa gives holders access to a stable financial environment. Banks and financial institutions are often willing to offer visa holders better credit conditions and investment opportunities, as the long-term visa offers a certain degree of security.

5. Travel facilitation

The Golden Visa allows holders to leave and re-enter the UAE as often as they wish during the visa period without losing their visa status. This flexibility is particularly advantageous for international business people.

6. Access to exclusive services

Golden Visa holders often gain access to exclusive services in areas such as healthcare, education and real estate. They also enjoy a higher standing in society, which facilitates their access to further business opportunities and networks.

How do I get the Dubai Golden Visa?

The Golden Visa application process can be done either directly through government authorities in Dubai or through licensed service providers such as Setupco who will help with the application and the associated formalities. The general procedure is as follows:

1. Check requirementsFirst of all, you must ensure that you meet the requirements of the respective category (investor, professional, artist, etc.).
2. Submit documentsApplicants must submit documents such as proof of investment, certificates of professional qualifications, academic achievements or evidence of special talents.
3. Official auditThe competent authorities examine the application documents and decide whether the applicant fulfills the criteria for the Golden Visa.
4. Visa issuanceAfter a successful examination, the Golden Visa is issued, which is valid for either 5 or 10 years.

An attractive option for long-term stays in Dubai

The Dubai Golden Visa is an excellent opportunity for investors, professionals, entrepreneurs and talented individuals to live and work long-term in one of the world's most dynamic cities. With its numerous benefits - from tax exemption to unlimited work and residence permits - the Golden Visa offers security and flexibility that are invaluable, especially in a globalized economy.

Anyone planning to invest or set up a business in Dubai in the long term should consider the Golden Visa. It not only offers protection and stability, but also the opportunity to establish a long-term presence in one of the world's most economically attractive markets.