The UAE has quickly become one of the most attractive destinations in the world for investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, and global talent. A major reason behind this popularity is the UAE Golden Visa, a long-term residency program that allows foreign nationals to live, work, and study in the UAE without the need for a national sponsor.

Whether you’re an investor, a startup founder, a highly skilled professional, or someone looking to expand their presence in the Middle East, understanding how to get Golden Visa in UAE is a crucial step in your journey. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the process, eligibility, benefits, and how Global Business Setup can help you get started.

What Is the UAE Golden Visa?

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa that was introduced in 2019 to attract and retain top talent and investors. It grants 5 or 10-year residency to qualified individuals and can be automatically renewed.

This visa is particularly popular among:

• Business investors

• Entrepreneurs

• Doctors

• Scientists

• Outstanding students

• Creative talents

The UAE government designed this system to strengthen the country’s economic growth and innovation ecosystem by offering stability and incentives to exceptional individuals and businesses.

Key Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa

Before diving into how to get a Golden Visa in UAE, it’s important to understand why it’s so sought after. Here are the top benefits:

1. Long-Term Residency

Depending on your category, you can get 5-year or 10-year residency in the UAE without a local sponsor.

2. 100% Business Ownership

Golden Visa holders can own 100% of their businesses in the mainland UAE—no need for a local partner.

3. Family Sponsorship

You can sponsor your spouse, children, and domestic workers under one visa.

4. Freedom to Work and Live

Enjoy the flexibility to live, work, study, and travel freely within the UAE.

5. Global Mobility

The UAE’s strong international relationships make it a strategic location for global business expansion.

Who Is Eligible for the UAE Golden Visa?

If you’re wondering who can apply for a Golden Visa in the UAE, there are several categories of eligibility. Each comes with specific requirements:

1. Investors in Public Investments

• Minimum AED 2 million investment in public sector.

• Proof that the funds are not loaned.

• The investment must be retained for at least 2 years.

2. Real Estate Investors

• Invest in property worth at least AED 2 million.

• If using a loan, it must come from an approved UAE bank.

• The property must be retained for 2 years.

3. Entrepreneurs

• Own a startup registered in the UAE in the small or medium enterprise (SME) category.

• The company must generate annual revenues of at least AED 1 million.

• Entrepreneurs can also qualify through business incubators.

4. Specialized Talents and Researchers

Includes:

• Scientists

• Doctors

• Artists

• Inventors

• Researchers in various fields Requires:

• Accreditation from a relevant UAE body (e.g., Emirates Scientists Council, Ministry of Culture).

5. Outstanding Students and Graduates

• High-performing secondary school students in UAE.

• Graduates from the world’s top 100 universities.

• Academic excellence and recommendation from a UAE educational institution.

6. Humanitarian Pioneers

• Individuals with notable humanitarian work locally or internationally.

7. Frontline Workers

• Special provisions for medical and frontline professionals who served during the pandemic.

 

How to Get Golden Visa in UAE: Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for the UAE Golden Visa might seem overwhelming at first. But with the right partner like Global Business Setup, the entire process becomes seamless. Here’s a simplified roadmap:

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

Check which category you qualify for—investor, entrepreneur, skilled professional, etc.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

While documentation may vary based on category, here are some general documents:

• Valid passport

• Recent passport-sized photo

• Proof of investment or property ownership

• Academic certificates (attested)

• Medical fitness certificate

• Emirates ID and visa copy (if applicable)

Step 3: Apply for Nomination

For some categories like scientists or creatives, you must get nominated or receive an approval from a UAE authority (e.g., Dubai Culture, Ministry of Education).

Step 4: Submit Golden Visa Application

You can submit your application through:

• ICP (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship)

• GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs)

• Authorized business service providers like Global Business Setup

Step 5: Medical Test and Emirates ID

Once the visa is approved, complete a medical fitness test and apply for an Emirates ID.

Step 6: Get Your Golden Visa Stamped

Your passport will be stamped, and you’ll receive a new residence permit valid for 5 or 10 years.

How Global Business Setup Can Help

If you’re unsure where to start, Global Business Setup offers full support in securing your Golden Visa in UAE, especially if you’re interested in:

• Business setup in Dubai

• UAE company formation

• Real estate investment

• Tax advisory

• Long-term residency strategy

With deep knowledge of the UAE Golden Visa requirements, Global Business Setup provides:

• Personalized consultation

• Legal and PRO support

• Document preparation and submission

• Investor visa packages

• End-to-end visa processing services

Their team ensures that the entire process— from eligibility checks to visa stamping— is smooth, fast, and hassle-free.

How Much Does the UAE Golden Visa Cost?

The cost of a Golden Visa in UAE depends on your category and whether you’re applying from inside or outside the country.

Note: These costs include application fees, medical testing, Emirates ID, and stamping fees. Global Business Setup offers package deals that include all services.

Popular LSI Keywords Used in Golden Visa Applications

When exploring how to get golden visa in UAE, you’ll come across terms like:

• Dubai investor visa

• UAE long-term residency

• UAE golden visa application form

• UAE visa for business owners

• 10-year UAE visa benefits

• Real estate investor visa Dubai

• Golden Visa Dubai cost

• UAE residency by investment

Including these in your research or application process helps streamline your path with the latest regulatory updates.

Tips for a Successful Golden Visa Application

• Choose the right category: Don’t just go for the investor visa if your strength is academic or technical. The system supports multiple talents.

• Keep all documents up to date: This includes attested degrees, bank statements, and investment documents.

• Consult professionals: Global Business Setup ensures you’re not missing out on eligibility due to documentation or incorrect submissions.

• Plan your financials: Whether you’re investing AED 2 million or starting a business, ensure your finances are clear, auditable, and legal.

FAQs About Getting the Golden Visa in UAE

1. Can I apply for a Golden Visa without a job in UAE?

Yes, if you qualify under the investor, entrepreneur, or academic categories.

2. Can I sponsor my family under the Golden Visa?

Yes, you can sponsor your spouse, children, and domestic staff.

3. Is the UAE Golden Visa renewable?

Yes, the 5- and 10-year visas are renewable, as long as you meet the conditions.

4. Can a freelancer apply for a Golden Visa?

Yes, freelancers with significant contributions or earnings (especially in tech or creative industries) may be eligible.

5. Do I need to speak Arabic to qualify?

No, Arabic is not a requirement. English and proper documentation are more important.

Why Choose Dubai or Abu Dhabi for Your Golden Visa?

Dubai

• Global business hub

• Home to tech startups, luxury real estate, and international banking

• Fast-paced lifestyle and multicultural environment

Abu Dhabi

• Government incentives for scientific research and academia

• Stable and secure environment

• Access to government funding for innovation

Golden Visa holders in UAE often choose between these two emirates depending on their industry, investment goals, and lifestyle preferences.

Final Thoughts

Understanding how to get golden visa in UAE is your first step toward unlocking a wealth of personal and professional opportunities in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. Whether you’re investing in real estate, launching a startup, or joining as a skilled professional, the UAE Golden Visa can help you enjoy stability, freedom, and long-term growth.

With expert guidance from Global Business Setup, you’ll be able to navigate the process confidently and legally, ensuring every document is correct, every step is smooth, and your future in the UAE is secure.