Dubai Business Visa: Types, Cost, and Requirements

Get Your Dubai Business Visa: Simplified Process in the UAE

The UAE has become one of the most popular destinations for doing business. Opportunities exist across the vibrant nation, with Dubai being the top city to look for. Due to its tax-friendly laws, startup-friendly environment and strategic location, many entrepreneurs want to obtain a Dubai business visa and start a business in Dubai. According to GDRFA, Dubai witnessed a 52% increase in golden visa issues in the first half of 2023 compared to the same period in 2022. If you want to start or expand your business in Dubai, you are at the right place.

This blog will provide all the necessary details about the types of business visas in Dubai, the requirements for acquiring them, the application process, and the costs involved.

UAE business visa overview:

A UAE business visa is a special permit that allows expatriates and foreign entrepreneurs in the UAE to enter and stay in the country to conduct business activities. It is part of the UAE’s “Golden Visa” program, which offers long-term visas to applicants and their dependents. The UAE government offers different types of business visas depending on the nature of the business activity and the duration of the visit.

If you wish to engage in business activities in Dubai, you must hold a Dubai business visa. Visa requirements for entering and staying in Dubai depend upon the individual’s nationality.

Dubai business visa benefits:

A business visa in Dubai offers several advantages to its holders.

Benefits of holding a Dubai business visa include:

• Access to a thriving economy and investment opportunities
• Business-friendly tax policies and incentives
• Thriving business communities
• Strategic location for conducting business
• Gateway to global markets
• Option to get long-term residency, which gives ample time to set up, develop, and run a business in Dubai
• Access to diverse and multicultural workforce
• Ability to sponsor family members

Dubai business visa eligibility:

The eligibility criteria for a Dubai business visa that the applicants should meet include:

• Applicant must be able to verify entrepreneurial experience by providing proof.
• Applicant should have played a significant role in a start-up or is a senior leadership team member in a successful business.
• Applicant must possess a business idea planned to be started in the UAE.
• Applicants must also fulfil conditions such as background checks and medical assessments carried out by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Ports Security.

It is important to note that even after meeting the above conditions, the applicants must also get their Dubai business visa application, other legal documents, and business plan reviewed and approved by government officials. After a detailed assessment and approval by a special committee, Dubai business visa will be successfully granted to them.

Types of Dubai business visas:

The UAE government offers different types of business visas. Each visa caters to the specific needs of individuals and investors. You may apply for the one that meets your needs and for which you are eligible.

Broadly, the following are the types of Dubai business visa:

1. Visit visas:

This type of Dubai business visa is ideal for those who want to make short trips to Dubai. This visa allows them to attend business meetings and conferences, explore investment opportunities, and take short-term business trips. UAE offers visas upon arrival for visitors from more than 80 nations.

Visit visas can be of two types:

• Single entry: A single-entry visit visa allows the holder to enter the Emirate once. If the holder wants to return to the UAE again, a new visa must be applied for. This visa can be valid for 30 or 60 days. You can apply for this visa through digital channels, the customer happiness centre or the Amer service centre.

• Multiple entry: With this visa, the holder can enter and exit the UAE multiple times within a specified period. Thus, making it ideal for those who need to visit Dubai frequently for business purposes. Moreover, the holder can stay up to 90 days in a visit, which can be extended by 90 more days. This visa has a validity of 5 years. To obtain this visa, a bank balance of 4000 USD or equivalent in foreign currencies during the previous 6 months is required. Along with the balance, a valid health insurance policy, proof of stay and a ticket to and from the UAE is also needed.

2. Residence visas:

This visa is ideal for those who want to relocate to the UAE. To be eligible, applicants must own a business in Dubai, have a successful paid job in a UAE-based company, or have proven entrepreneurial experience. Depending on the visa chosen, it can be valid for 2, 5, or even up to 10 years.

Residence visa can be of 2 types:

1. Sponsored: This residence visa requires sponsorship from a local entity or individual. To continue the visa process, applicants must register their company and get the establishment card, which can be done remotely. The company then becomes the sponsor for the residence visa. Based on the location of the business setup, this visa can be a Mainland or Free Zone visa.
2. Self-sponsored: You don’t need a local sponsor for this visa. It includes:

• Green visa: This visa is mostly chosen by self-sponsored business owners and shareholders. It allows holders to participate in commercial activities and live in the UAE for up to 5 years. Applicants must provide proof of investment, the approval of local authorities, and the approval of ICP to obtain this visa.

• Golden visa: This long-term residence visa allows applicants to stay in Dubai longer, provided they invest at least AED 2 million in the country or own a project with a minimum value of AED 500,000 as entrepreneurs. Depending on the investment, the validity can be up to 5 or 10 years. It is mostly suitable for investors, property owners, and executives.

It is important to know that an applicant must first acquire an electronic entry permit to obtain any residence visa. This permit can be valid for 1 to 6 months. During this period, the applicant must pass medical tests, submit their applications for residency permits, and provide biometrics.

Dubai business visa requirements:

The following requirements mandated by The ICP (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship) must be met to be eligible for a Dubai Business Visa:

• Age: 18 years old or above.
• A valid passport from your country of residence with at least 6 months remaining validity, along with two recent passport-sized photographs.
• A copy of your confirmed return ticket or itinerary showing departure plans within 30 days of the visa expiration date.
• A cover letter from the applicant stating the purpose and duration of the visit.
• Financial proof, such as bank statements or a sponsor’s support letter, to demonstrate that you can support your stay in Dubai.
• Proof of accommodation while staying in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE, such as hotel bookings or a letter from a host.
• Copies of your professional qualifications or educational certificates.
• Evidence of a clear criminal background.
• Copy of business registration certificate and trade license, if applicable.
• An offer letter of intent for your visit from the employer (e.g., conferences, projects, upskilling, etc.)
• Valid health insurance that covers your stay in the UAE.
• If a female is travelling alone, a no objection certificate (NOC) from her father or husband is required.
• A copy of your residence permit. (if you already live in the UAE)

Additional documents may be needed depending on the visa type you apply for. Contact our experts at DUBIZ for more details.

How to obtain a Dubai business visa:

You can apply online for a business visa to Dubai on GDRFAD, the ICP Portal, or at a UAE Embassy/Consulate.

The following general steps can be followed to acquire a Dubai business visa:

Step 1 – Determine the appropriate business visa:

Choose the appropriate visa, which can be a visit or residence visa, that best suits your needs.

Step 2 – Gather the required documents:

Ensure all the documents are current and meet specific requirements outlined by Dubai authorities. For a residency visa, you must first obtain an entry permit. During this period, the applicant must pass medical tests, submit their applications for residency permits and provide biometrics. In case of a sponsored visa, certain steps need to be followed, including obtaining the required permissions and licenses, registering a company, securing an office space, and signing a contract with a service agent if necessary.

Step 3 – Fill out the application for the chosen visa type:

Fill out the application form accurately and completely. Dubai has made it easier to apply for visas by introducing online platforms.

• Read every item carefully before filling.
• After filling it out, proofread the application to make sure you have not made any errors.
• In case of any doubts, it is advisable to seek help from a service provider like DUBIZ to ensure your application is correct.

Step 4 – Attach the required documents:

The documentation required will vary depending on the specific visa you are applying for. General documents include the application form duly filed, passport-size photographs, a valid passport, a bank statement, health insurance, a travel itinerary, the purpose of the visit, etc. Make sure to upload all the required documents in the correct format, including proof of eligibility.

Step 5 – Pay The Dubai business visa fees:

Next, pay the visa fee to submit your Dubai business visa application successfully. Visa fees vary based on the type and duration of the visa.

Step 6 – Application review and visa approval:

Once the application is submitted, it goes through a detailed scrutiny by the relevant authorities. Processing time can take several days to weeks, depending on the visa you are applying for. For example, some residency visas require you to take medical tests, etc. This can affect the time you wait for your visa to be processed. You can reapply again after 90 days if your application is not approved.

Dubai business visa cost:

Following are the average costs for a Dubai business visa depending on its type:

Single entry visit visa:

• Costs around AED 400*

Multiple entry visit visa:

• 30-day visit visa fee: AED 300*
• 60-day visit visa fee: AED 500*
• 90-day visitor visa fee: AED 700*

2-year residence visa:

• Around AED 3,500* (for applicants in Dubai) and AED 2200*(for applicants outside Dubai), without medical insurance

Golden visa:

• AED 5,000* for application processing + medical test fees + typing centre charges

Green visa:

• AED 2,280*, excluding additional fees for the ID card and medical services

It should be noted that the costs are subject to changes in government regulations, your personal needs and the visa selected. Also, additional medical tests, Emirates ID, and biometrics costs may arise. Please get in touch with our experts at DUBIZ for further assistance.

Period for completion of the UAE business visa application process:

Generally, the Dubai visa application process can take up to 2 months (60 days). The initial Dubai business visa application and its review can take around 30 days, after which applicants are given 30 days to fulfil the requirements of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Ports Security, such as submitting their documents and getting their medical assessments done.

Get your Dubai business visa quickly with DUBIZ!

Getting a Dubai business visa unlocks an ocean of opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs. While it might seem daunting, the process is simple if you diligently follow the steps and requirements. At DUBIZ, we handle your entire application process, ensuring you receive your visa promptly. Let our experts take care of everything so you can relax and avoid the hassle of dealing with paperwork and government offices.

Contact DUBIZ today at +971 562986853 or WhatsApp us at +971 569973630. You can also drop an email at info@dubiz.co for any inquiries.

FAQs

1. What is the validity of a business visa in the Dubai?

The Dubai business visa offers different durations, ranging from 30 to 60 days for single-entry visas. Additionally, there is a long-term multiple-entry visa valid for 5 years. For residence visas, the validity can be 2, 3, 5, or even up to 10 years.

2. How long does it take to process a UAE business visa?

The processing time for a UAE business visa varies. For example, the 5-year multiple entry visa can be processed within 48 hours, whereas the Golden visa typically requires 30 days for processing.

3. How long can I stay in the UAE with a business visa?

The duration will depend on the purpose of travel and validity of the visa. The validity can be of a few days to several months.

4. Can I sponsor dependents with a Dubai business visa?

Yes, you can sponsor your dependents with a Dubai business visa by following the rules set by the ICA for sponsoring families in the UAE. To apply, you must show proof of relationship (like a marriage or birth certificate) when submitting the application form to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). Your dependents can include:

1. Your spouse
2. Children under 18
3. Parents over 60 who rely on you financially
4. Unmarried siblings under 18 who depend on you financially

5. Can I apply for business visa in any Emirate?

Yes, you can apply for a business visa in any of the seven Emirates, which include Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Fujairah, and Ras Al-Khaimah. The application process for a Business Visa remains consistent across all Emirates.