Complete reference guide to UAE Golden Visa categories, requirements, and application process for 2026.
In this guide:
UAE Golden Visa — Key Facts
- Duration: 10 years; renewable
- Self-sponsorship: Golden Visa holders sponsor themselves (no employer sponsorship needed)
- Family: Spouse and children of any age can be sponsored on Golden Visa
- Domestic workers: Up to one domestic worker allowed
- Residency requirement: No minimum days per year to maintain visa (unlike investor visa categories)
Golden Visa Categories
- Investors: AED 2 million+ in UAE real estate (one or more properties) OR AED 2 million in UAE business; must not be financed via mortgage exceeding value threshold
- Entrepreneurs: Own UAE company valued at AED 500,000+ (third-party valuation required); or approved technology start-up
- Skilled employees: Monthly salary AED 30,000+ in specific sectors (see approved list); employer must be in UAE
- Outstanding students: Top 5% of school year or high GPA at UAE/foreign university
- Humanitarian work: Doctors, nurses, and other humanitarian workers (ministry approval)
- Specialised talent: Artists, athletes, academics, scientists, executives (nomination required)
Free Zone Company Founders and Golden Visa
- Free zone company valuation: Company must be valued at AED 500,000+ by approved UAE valuator
- Most new companies: Will not qualify immediately; need track record and assets
- Real estate route: Most accessible for UAE business owners — purchase AED 2M+ property
How to Apply
- Investment route: Apply via GDRFA (Dubai) or ICP (other emirates) after meeting investment threshold
- Skilled employee route: Apply via employer through GDRFA or ICP
- Cost: Approximately AED 2,800-4,200 for Golden Visa processing