How to Get a 10-Year Golden Visa in Dubai?

Golden Visa in Dubai offers great opportunities for real estate investors seeking long-term residency. Moreover, it allows foreign investors to live, work, and invest while enjoying the stability of a world-class business hub.

In addition, investors gain access to Dubai’s dynamic economy and global network, making it an ideal choice for growth and success. While the influencer hype may have faded, the Dubai Golden Visa remains highly sought after.

Before we dive in, let’s clarify what the Golden Visa in Dubai offers and why it’s so attractive. More importantly, it’s no longer just a 10-year residency, it’s a global shield of protection, giving holders exclusive privileges and full support from UAE authorities worldwide.

Explanation for the Golden Visa in Dubai

A Golden Visa in Dubai is a long-term residency program that lets eligible individuals live, work, and invest in the UAE for up to ten years. While other countries offer similar programs, Dubai’s version stands out for its simplicity and strong benefits. Moreover, it gives investors a unique chance to build a stable future in one of the world’s most dynamic economies.

In Dubai, the Golden Visa is primarily granted to investors, property owners, entrepreneurs, professionals, and outstanding talents who meet specific eligibility criteria. One of the most common routes is real estate investment, where purchasing property of a certain value can qualify you for long-term residency.

This visa not only ensures long-term security and stability but also lets you enjoy life in one of the world’s fastest-growing cities. Moreover, it gives you the freedom to live and work independently without a local sponsor, allowing you to focus on growing your business and future in Dubai.

Who Can Apply for the Golden Visa in Dubai?

The Dubai Golden Visa offers long-term residency to individuals who have made remarkable contributions in their respective fields. This prestigious program is tailored for investors, innovators, and professionals who play a key role in driving the UAE’s growth, innovation, and global competitiveness.

• Investors: Individuals who invest in Dubai’s real estate market or other qualifying business assets.
• Entrepreneurs: Founders and co-owners of thriving startups or businesses based in the UAE.
• Educators & Teachers: Distinguished professionals who have significantly contributed to the education sector.
• Exceptional Talents: Artists, athletes, creators, and innovators with recognized achievements.
• Scientists & Professionals: Experts in science, healthcare, engineering, and advanced technology fields.
• Outstanding Students & Graduates: High-achieving students from the UAE or internationally accredited universities.
• Humanitarian Leaders: Individuals honored for their exceptional humanitarian or community contributions.
• Frontline Heroes: Healthcare professionals and essential workers recognized for their service and dedication.

Requirements to Obtain a Golden Visa in the United Arab Emirates

To qualify for a Golden Visa in Dubai, applicants must meet specific eligibility and investment criteria set by the UAE government. The exact requirements may vary depending on your category — investor, entrepreneur, professional, or student. However, all aim to attract individuals who contribute to the UAE’s long-term growth. Moreover, this approach helps Dubai welcome talented and visionary people from around the world.

General Requirements

• A valid passport with at least six months of validity.
• Proof of financial stability or an income source in the UAE.
• Health insurance is valid in the Emirates.
• Good conduct certificate (no criminal record).

Investment & Professional Requirements

Depending on the visa category, you may also need to meet one of the following:

• Real Estate Investors: Own property or multiple properties in Dubai with a minimum value of AED 2 million (can be mortgaged or fully paid).
• Entrepreneurs: Own or be a partner in a business that generates at least AED 1 million in annual revenue or have received funding from an accredited UAE incubator.
• Highly Skilled Professionals: Hold an employment contract in the UAE and a monthly salary of AED 30,000 or more, along with recognized qualifications in medicine, science, engineering, or technology.
• Outstanding Students: Have a GPA of at least 3.8 (UAE universities) or equivalent academic excellence from an international institution.

Applicants must submit all documentation through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) or Dubai’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) portals.

Benefits of the Golden Visa in the United Arab Emirates

The Golden Visa in Dubai offers a range of exceptional advantages that make it one of the most sought-after residency programs in the world.

Designed to provide long-term security and flexibility, it allows foreign investors, professionals, and talented individuals to build their future in the UAE with confidence and stability.

• 10-Year Renewable Residency: Enjoy long-term residency without the need for a local sponsor or employer.
• Full Business Ownership: Retain 100% ownership of your business within the UAE’s mainland and free zones.
• Freedom to Live, Work & Study: Reside and work in Dubai with complete flexibility across multiple sectors.
• Family Sponsorship: Sponsor your spouse, children (of any age), and domestic staff under your visa.
• Residency Continuity: Maintain your visa validity even if you spend more than six months outside the UAE.
• Exclusive Access to Services: Benefit from priority services in healthcare, education, and public administration.
• Pathway to Stability: Secure a long-term base in one of the world’s most innovative and economically stable nations.
• Attractive Real Estate Opportunities: Enjoy investment potential with Dubai’s booming property market.

The Dubai Golden Visa isn’t just a residency — it’s a path to stability, freedom, and new opportunities in a city that rewards ambition and innovation.

How to Apply for a Golden Visa in Dubai?

Applying for the Golden Visa in Dubai is a straightforward process; in fact, it becomes even smoother when all eligibility documents are properly prepared and submitted. Moreover, having the right guidance from the start can further simplify each step and ensure faster approval. The UAE government has simplified the procedure to make it faster and more accessible for qualified investors, professionals, and outstanding talents.

1. Check Your Eligibility

Confirm that you meet the criteria under one of the approved categories, like investor, entrepreneur, professional, student, or exceptional talent.

2. Prepare the Required Documents

First, gather all the necessary documents, including your passport, Emirates ID (if applicable), proof of income or investment, educational certificates, and a valid health insurance policy. Moreover, having these documents ready in advance will help ensure a faster and smoother Golden Visa application process.

3. Submit Your Application Online

• Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) website – https://icp.gov.ae
• General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA-Dubai) portal – https://gdrfad.gov.ae

4. Pay the Application Fee

Fees vary depending on the visa type and duration. Expect to pay approximately AED 2,800–3,800 for most categories.

5. Undergo Medical and Security Checks

Complete your medical fitness test and submit a good conduct certificate (police clearance).

6. Receive Approval and Residency Stamp

Once approved, you’ll receive your Golden Visa residence permit electronically, followed by a visa stamp in your passport or an Emirates ID update.

The approval process typically takes 2–4 weeks, depending on your visa category and documentation accuracy. Partnering with a licensed business setup or visa consultancy in Dubai not only helps streamline the process, but also ensures accuracy throughout each stage. Moreover, it helps you avoid unnecessary delays that may occur due to document issues or category errors. As a result, your application moves faster and with greater confidence.

At Business Setup Dubai, we handle the entire process for you, from document preparation to visa approval. So you can secure your long-term residency in Dubai with complete peace of mind.

Ready to begin your Golden Visa journey?

Contact us to book a free consultation with our business expert!

How Much Does it Cost for a 10-Year Golden Visa in Dubai?

The total cost of a 10-year Golden Visa in Dubai largely depends on your visa category, whether you are an investor, professional, entrepreneur, or student, and also on whether you are applying from inside or outside the UAE.

While prices may vary slightly, in general, most applications also include processing fees, medical tests, as well as Emirates ID issuance. Therefore, it’s essential to review the requirements carefully before starting your application.

Note: The above costs are estimates for applications submitted within the UAE. If you apply from abroad, entry permit fees and Emirates ID charges may slightly increase the total.

Additional Expenses

• Medical Fitness Test: 300 – 700 AED
• Emirates ID: 370 – 500 AED (depending on validity period)
• Health Insurance: 800 – 1,500 AED (mandatory for all applicants)

Obtaining a Golden Visa in Dubai is a valuable long-term investment that provides security, stability, and freedom to live and work in the UAE for up to 10 years, with the option to renew indefinitely.

Start Your Golden Visa Application with Business Setup Dubai

Getting your Golden Visa in Dubai doesn’t have to be complicated. At Business Setup Dubai, our team of experts will handle every step, from eligibility assessment and document preparation to final approval, by ensuring your application is smooth, accurate, and stress-free.

Whether you’re an investor, entrepreneur, skilled professional, or student, we simplify the entire process. In fact, we manage every step efficiently so you can focus on what truly matters — building your life and future in the UAE.

Moreover, with the right guidance, obtaining your visa becomes faster and stress-free.

• Assessing your eligibility and category.
• Preparing and verifying all required documents.
• Managing your online application with GDRFA or ICP.
• Coordinating your medical, Emirates ID, and visa stamping.
• Providing ongoing support for renewals or family sponsorship.

Book a free consultation with our experts and start your Golden Visa journey confidently.

Contact: +971 58 594 5975
Visit: www.business-setup-dubai.com

Can Couples Live Together Without Being Married?

For a long time, unmarried couples were not legally allowed to live together in Dubai. This restriction was rooted in Emirati law and Islamic tradition, which prohibits sexual relations outside of marriage. However, the city has evolved significantly in recent years, especially as it aligns with its fast-growing international community and modern lifestyle.

Moreover, this transformation reflects Dubai’s vision to remain a global hub for innovation, culture, and opportunity.

Since the end of 2020, the UAE government has officially decriminalized cohabitation between unmarried couples, allowing expatriates and residents to live together freely. Moreover, this reform marked a major step toward social openness, especially for foreign nationals planning to make Dubai their long-term home.

After all, authorities rarely intervened in private matters before this change; however, there was always a legal risk, including fines or imprisonment if someone filed a complaint. Today, that risk no longer exists, making Dubai one of the most progressive and tolerant cities in the Gulf region.

So, if you’re relocating to the UAE under the Golden Visa in Dubai, you can rest assured that it’s now completely legal for couples to live together without marriage. Moreover, this change reflects the UAE’s commitment to a modern and inclusive lifestyle for all residents and expatriates.

Does the Golden Visa Affect Family Sponsorship?

One of the major advantages of the Golden Visa in Dubai is the flexibility it offers in terms of family sponsorship. Unlike standard residence visas tied to an employer or sponsor, the Golden Visa, on the other hand, gives holders full independence. Moreover, it lets them sponsor family members directly, thereby providing greater flexibility and long-term stability in the UAE.

With a valid Golden Visa, you can easily sponsor your spouse, children, and domestic staff under your residency, ensuring your family enjoys the same long-term stability and benefits as you.

Key Points to Know:

• Spouse and Children: You can sponsor your spouse and children of any age (both sons and daughters).
• Parents: In some cases, parents can also be sponsored, provided the applicant meets specific income and accommodation requirements.
• Duration: Family members receive residency visas linked to the validity of your Golden Visa, usually up to 10 years.
• Renewal: When you renew your Golden Visa, your dependents’ visas can be renewed at the same time.

As a result, the Golden Visa in Dubai has become one of the most attractive residency options for expatriates seeking a long-term life in the UAE. Moreover, it offers stability and freedom, while also eliminating the need for a local sponsor, therefore making it a truly empowering choice for residents and investors alike.

Can Dependents Work Under a Golden Visa in Dubai?

Yes, dependents under the Golden Visa in Dubai can legally work in the UAE, provided they obtain the necessary work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE).

Unlike standard residency visas tied to an employer or sponsor, the Golden Visa, on the other hand, offers greater flexibility. Moreover, dependents can easily apply for work authorization and therefore, get hired directly by UAE companies, making it a more inclusive option for families.

Additional Features of a Golden Visa in Dubai

The Dubai Golden Visa has evolved beyond a long-term residency permit; it’s now a powerful global privilege offering unmatched protection, support, and peace of mind to UAE residents abroad. However, recent updates introduced by the UAE government have made the Golden Visa stronger and more beneficial than ever before.

24/7 Global Embassy Support

UAE embassies worldwide now provide round-the-clock assistance to Golden Visa holders, helping with emergencies, lost documents, or travel-related issues anywhere in the world.

Emergency Travel Documents in 30 Minutes

If you lose or damage your passport while abroad, the UAE authorities issue an emergency return document within just 30 minutes, thereby allowing you to travel home quickly and safely.

Rescue and Evacuation Assistance

During international crises, emergencies, or natural disasters, UAE missions actively coordinate exclusive rescue and evacuation operations for Golden Visa holders. Moreover, these measures actively protect residents’ safety and well-being, thereby demonstrating the UAE’s strong commitment to safeguarding its people, even beyond its borders.

Full Support in Times of Loss

In the unfortunate event of a Golden Visa holder’s passing abroad, the UAE government assists the family with repatriation, burial arrangements, and compassionate care.

24/7 Direct Access to MOFA Support

Golden Visa holders now have direct access to the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) through a dedicated hotline for immediate consular assistance anywhere in the world.

A Global Shield Beyond Residency

The Golden Visa now acts as your international protection network, ensuring that UAE citizens and residents are safeguarded globally,  beyond the borders of the Emirates.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Golden Visa in Dubai

With a strong vision and aim to help you, we have listed a few frequently asked questions from the audience, extracted from researching several platforms for a deep understanding. But we are not far away from you. Contact us at +971 58 594 5975 to reach us easily.

Q1. What is the Dubai Golden Visa?

A: The Golden Visa in Dubai is a long-term residency program that allows foreign investors, professionals, entrepreneurs, and talented individuals to live, work, and study in the UAE for up to 10 years, without the need for a local sponsor.

Q2. Who is eligible for the Golden Visa in Dubai?

A: Eligibility not only extends to investors, entrepreneurs, and highly skilled professionals, but also includes outstanding students, scientists, as well as exceptional talents across various fields such as medicine, engineering, technology, and the arts. Moreover, this broad eligibility ensures that Dubai continues to attract and retain world-class talent from around the globe.

Q3. How can I apply for a Golden Visa in Dubai?

A: You can apply through:

• The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) portal, or
• The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA-Dubai) website.
• Applicants must submit valid documentation, undergo medical checks, and pay the applicable fees.

Q4. How much does the 10-year Golden Visa cost?

A: The cost varies depending on your category but generally ranges from AED 2,800 to AED 4,500, including visa issuance, medical testing, and Emirates ID fees.

Q5. Can I sponsor my family under the Golden Visa?

A: Yes. Golden Visa holders can sponsor their spouse, children (of any age), and domestic staff, giving the entire family long-term residency linked to the visa’s validity.

Q6. Can dependents work under a Golden Visa?

A: Yes. Dependents can legally work in the UAE after obtaining a work permit from MOHRE. They can continue to be sponsored by the main Golden Visa holder while being employed.

Q7. Does the Golden Visa grant UAE citizenship?

A: No, the Golden Visa provides long-term residency, not citizenship. However, it offers nearly the same benefits in terms of living, working, and business ownership in the UAE.

Q8. How long does it take to get the Golden Visa approved?

A: The process usually takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the visa category, eligibility verification, and completeness of your documents.

Q9. Can the Golden Visa be renewed?

A: Yes. The Golden Visa is renewable every 10 years, provided you continue to meet the eligibility criteria and maintain your qualifying investment or professional status.

Q10. What are the new benefits added to the Golden Visa in 2025?

A: Recent updates now include 24/7 global embassy support, emergency travel documents, evacuation assistance, and direct MOFA access, making it one of the most secure residency programs in the world.