The UAE offers a special 5-year renewable Retirement Visa for individuals aged 55 and above who meet the financial criteria. Here is how to qualify and apply.
UAE Retirement Visa Requirements
To qualify for the UAE Retirement Visa, you must meet ONE of the following three criteria: Option A — Savings: Hold at least AED 1 million in a UAE bank savings account. The funds must be in a UAE-licensed bank and maintained throughout the visa period. Option B — Active Income: Earn a monthly income of at least AED 20,000 from a pension, investment income, or salary (part-time work). The income must be documented via bank statements and income certificates. Option C — UAE Property: Own UAE real estate with a minimum total value of AED 2 million. The property must be registered in your name with the Dubai Land Department or relevant emirate authority and must be fully paid (not mortgaged) for visa purposes.
How to Apply for UAE Retirement Visa
Apply through: the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA Dubai), DNRD Abu Dhabi for Abu Dhabi residency, or ICP (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship) portal icp.gov.ae. Required documents: passport copy (valid minimum 6 months), 3–6 months bank statements showing AED 1M balance or AED 20,000+ monthly income, UAE property title deed (if using Option C), and proof of age (passport showing date of birth). Fee: approximately AED 3,500–5,000 including visa issuance and Emirates ID.
UAE Retirement Visa Benefits
A UAE Retirement Visa holder: can open UAE bank accounts, purchase UAE property, sponsor a spouse and dependants, and access UAE healthcare as a resident. No restrictions on part-time work — retirees can do occasional consultancy or part-time professional work without a separate work permit (verify with MOHRE for specific activity types).