Golden Visa Dubai Guide 2026: Costs, Benefits and Rules

Have you ever thought about moving to Dubai? If so, the “Golden Visa Residency” makes it possible for you to live, work, and settle in the UAE, on a renewable 10-year visa without depending on any local sponsor. 

Investors with AED 2 million in Dubai property or company, professionals earning AED 30,000 a month, brilliant students, and nominated talents are among those who can apply for Golden Visa Dubai. In Dubai, you apply through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA), Amer Centres or authorised typing centres. In the other emirates, you apply through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP). 

What our comprehensive Dubai Golden Visa guide covers: Golden Visa requirements UAE, categories, process, cost, paperwork, timeline, golden visa vs other visas, and new rules for golden visa in 2026. We based it on information from the Dubai Land Department (DLD), GDRFA and ICP. Last checked: 1 November 2026. 

What is a golden visa in Dubai? 

The Golden Visa is a long-term UAE residence permit, usually valid for 10 years. The UAE grants it to eligible investors, entrepreneurs, professionals, specialised talents, sportspeople, humanitarian pioneers, teachers, students, environmentalists and creatives. 

Unlike most standard UAE visas, it does not depend on a sponsor, an employer or annual renewals. 

Quick fact: The Golden Visa was launched in May 2019 to attract global talent and investment. Since then, interest has grown. In fact, GDRFA processed 66,078 new Golden Visas in the first half of 2026 alone.  

Who can get Golden visa Dubai in 2026 – complete list with eligibility 

People with different backgrounds can apply for a Golden Visa Dubai, as long as they meet the minimum eligibility. 

To see where you fit, here’s a complete 2026 list of eligible applicants: 

Category	Visa term	Main eligible rule	How you apply
Property investor	10 years	AED 2 million+ in Dubai property	DLD-approved service centre
Company investor or partner	10 years	AED 2 million+ in Dubai property	GDRFA smart services or Amer centre
Approved fund investor	10 years	AED 2 million+ in Dubai property	GDRFA or Amer centre
Tax-paying investor	10 years	AED 250,000+ in annual tax, valid trade license	GDRFA or Amer centre
Skilled professional	10 years	AED 30,000 basic salary, degree, job contract	GDRFA or Amer centre
Entrepreneur	10 years	Approved project, AED 1 million annual revenue	Nominating authority, then GDRFA
Specialised talent	10 years	Authority nomination, such as the Ministry of Culture, Sports Council, or Scientists Council	Authority, then GDRFA
Top students or graduates	10 years	Qualifying GPA and institution	ICP or education authority
Humanitarian pioneer or frontline hero	10 years	Proven support and recommendation	Authority, then GDRFA

New and expanded Dubai golden visa categories 

Beyond the core ones, the UAE added new golden visa categories in 2025 and 2026: 

New golden visa category	Route
AI and data specialists	Nomination from the Emirates Council for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transactions.  Or approved credentials + AED 30,000 basic monthly salary
E-sports professionals	Endorsement from the relevant sports authority
Digital creators	Via Dubai’s Creators HQ. See our content creator Golden Visa guide.
Teachers	Via KHDA for Dubai private schools. Read our teacher Golden Visa guide.
Nurses	15 years+ at Dubai Health. Explore our nurse Golden Visa guide.
Climate-tech and cultural	Entrepreneur or talent endorsement
Waqf donors	AED 2 million+ in a certified waqf projects approved by Awqaf Dubai

Dubai Golden Visa vs green visa vs standard residence visa 

Because Dubai offers several residence visas, here is how the Golden Visa compares with the Green Visa and a standard visa: 

Feature	Golden Visa	Green Visa	Standard residence visa
Validity	10 years	5 years	2 to 3 years
Sponsor	Not needed	Not needed	Employer, company, property, or family
Time outside the UAE	Unlimited	Unlimited	Capped at 6 months
Family sponsorship	Yes, no income cap	Yes	Yes, conditional
Renewal	Yes	Yes	Yes, depends on sponsor
Cost	Higher	Moderate	Lower
Best suits	Investors, high earners, and talents who want long-term security	Skilled workers, freelancers and self-employed looking for sponsor independency	Startups, employees, and newcomers

Still unsure which one fits? Talk to our experts. 

Benefits of holding a golden visa UAE 

Here are the UAE Golden Visa benefits, in 11 clear facts: 

1. 10 years of long-term UAE residency 
2. No sponsor or employer needed 
3. Live abroad for 6+ months without affecting your residency 
4. Sponsor family: your spouse and children (parents need a separate application) 
5. Sponsor domestic workers 
6. Family security: your sponsored family can stay until their own permits expire, even if you pass away 
7. Change jobs without losing your residence 
8. Top notch healthcare, education and lifestyle services for you and your family 
9. 100% mainland ownership in most activities, with no local partner 
10. Consular help abroad, including a 24/7 emergency line and a quick return document if you lose your passport 
11. 0% personal income tax 

How to get Golden Visa UAE? 

To apply for a 10-year Golden Visa in Dubai, you can complete most of the application process in six steps. 

Total processing time: About 2 weeks with Dubiz 

1. Pick your visa route. 

Match your property, company, salary, or achievements to one of the eligible categories. You can talk to our Golden Visa experts at Dubiz Business Setup who will help you understand the different types of Golden Visas and which one you should go for. 

ICP also provides a free Golden Visa eligibility checker tool. 

2. Get your nomination, if you need one. 

Humanitarian workers, students, scientists, and athletes may need a recommendation letter from relevant authority. One can request a nomination online through ICP Smart Services here: Request for Nomination. 

By contrast, skilled professionals, investors and property owners can apply directly without a nomination. 

3. Prepare and attest your documents. 

This includes your ID documents, property valuations, fund statements, title deeds, academic qualifications, experience letters, salary slips, and else you may need. Foreign docs usually need attestation and Arabic translation.  

4. Submit your application through the right authority. 

After that, submit your application through the right authority. Both online and offline methods work. Submit through one of these channels: GDRFA Golden Visa Services (online), ICP Smart Services (other emirates), DLD service centres, customer happiness centres or authorised typing centres. 

5. Take your medical test and complete Emirates ID biometrics. 

Once your application is accepted, take your medical test and complete your Emirates ID biometrics. You must be in the UAE in person for both. If you are outside the UAE, you first need a six-month multiple-entry permit. 

6. Receive your residence permit and Emirates ID. 

Finally, if everything is in order, authority will issue your Golden Visa and Emirates ID. 

Also, if you already hold another UAE visa, you may need to cancel it first. 

How long does Golden Visa Dubai take? 

 With Dubiz handling your file, a Golden Visa usually takes about 2 weeks, covering every step from document preparation to approval. Some cases take longer because property valuation, bank letters, degree recognition, nominations and attestation all add time. 

UAE Golden Visa requirements  

You will need to typically submit the following documents to apply for a golden visa Dubai: 

1. General documents:  

• Valid passport copy 

• Coloured passport photo 

• Detailed CV 

• Bank/financial statements 

• Copy of current residency visa (for residents of UAE) 

• Emirates ID copy (if applicable) 

• Medical fitness report 

• Health insurance coverage 

• Clear criminal record certificate 

2. Category-specific documents:  

1. Property investor: Title deed or DLD property status certificate, bank NOC for a mortgage, and proof of your ownership share. 
2. Company owner: Audited financial report, trade licence, company bank statement, tax registration, and free zone capital certificate (if applicable). 
3. Bank deposit investor: Bank certificate confirming the AED 2 million deposit and two-year freeze, and proof of housing in Dubai. 
4. Bank deposit investor: Bank certificate confirming the AED 2 million deposit and two-year freeze, and proof of housing in Dubai. 
5. Tax-paying investor: FTA letter and trade licence. 
6. Skilled professional: UAE job contract, salary certificate, six months of bank statements, attested degree, and professional licence (if required). 

Entrepreneur: Nomination letter, project profile or business plan, auditor’s letter, and incubator letter. 

Talent or student: Nomination or recommendation letter from the relevant authority, portfolio, awards, certificates, or transcripts. 

Family member: Sponsor’s passport, Emirates ID and Golden Visa, attested marriage and birth certificates, and medical test results for adults. 

3. Documents that may require attestation:  

• University degrees 

• Professional qualification certificates 

• Commercial certificates 

• Birth certificates 

• Experience letters 

• Marriage certificates 

What is the golden visa UAE price? 

UAE golden visa under property investments costs about AED 9,883* (DLD cost), excluding service fee. 

1. Cost breakdown of property investor golden visa through Dubai Land Department (DLD): 

Fee	Amount (AED)
Medical examination	700
Emirates ID (10 years)	1,153
Residence permit confirmation	2,856
Dubai Land Department fee	4,020
Administrative fee	1,155
Total	9,883

2. Cost breakdown of professional golden visa through GDRFA: 

Fee	Amount (AED)
Residence permit fee	1,100
Knowledge fee	10
Innovation fee	10
Applying inside UAE	500
Delivery fee	20
Medical fee	TBD
Emirates ID	TBD

3. Cost of family visa for 10 years through DLD: 

Fee	Amount (AED)
Family residence permit, 10 years	5,774.50 per person
Family sponsorship file opening	318.75
Parent residence permit, 10 years	5,774.50 per parent
Extra charge	100 per sponsored person

Costs can vary. Health insurance, property valuation, bank letters, document attestation and Arabic translation are extra. The Dubiz PRO service fee is separate, so contact us for an itemised quote. 

*Fees are from the official DLD and GDRFA Dubai service pages as of 1^st Nov 2026 and can change. 

Dubai Golden Visa for company investors 

As an investor or partner in a UAE company, you can apply for a Golden Visa if the value of your share in the company’s assets is AED 2 million or more. A UAE-accredited audit firm must confirm the value of your share. 

To qualify, you will need: 

• Valid trade licence 

• Company bank statements 

• Tax registration certificate and tax receipts for the last year 

• For free zone companies, a certificate from the free zone authority showing the company’s capital and your share 

• Financial audit reports 

Dubai Golden Visa for property investors 

You can get a Golden Visa if you own Dubai property worth AED 2 million or more. The Dubai Land Department must certify the property’s value. You can own a single property or multiple properties, as long as their combined value reaches AED 2 million. Ready, off-plan and mortgaged properties can all qualify, subject to conditions. 

What changed in 2026? 

1. Mortgaged properties now qualify. In February 2026, the UAE removed the requirement to pay 50% of the property’s value or AED 1 million upfront. Thereafter, only the total value matters now. You need a bank No Objection Certificate (NOC) showing the amount paid and the balance outstanding. 
2. Off-plan properties qualify too. They need Oqood registration (the off-plan property registration), and any loan cannot exceed 50% of the property’s value. 
3. Joint ownership also counts. Spouses need a combined share of AED 2 million. Other co-owners need AED 2 million each. 
4. You can rent it out but not sell it. Selling the linked property can lead to visa cancellation. 

Dubai Golden Visa for bank depositors 

If you deposit AED 2 million+ in a fixed deposit, local bonds, or Sukuk approved by UAE authority, you can qualify for a 10-year Golden Visa Dubai. 

Requirements include: 

• Official bank deposit certificate 

• A bank deposit stays locked for 10 years. You cannot withdraw it. 

• You must hold the investment only in a UAE-accredited local bank. 

Dubai Golden Visa for tax investors 

Investors who pay at least AED 250,000 annually in UAE taxes can also qualify for a Golden Visa Dubai. 

To apply, they must provide a valid UAE trade licence and a tax certificate issued by the FTA which confirms tax contributions. However, final approval depends on GDRFA’s assessment. 

Dubai golden visa for entrepreneurs 

You can get a Golden Visa as an entrepreneur if your project or business plan is technological, innovative, and futuristic in UAE or elsewhere. You need a nomination from Dubai Future Foundation. 

In addition, you must meet at least one of the following criteria: 

• Have a pioneering project registered with the Ministry of Economy or a local authority, earning at least AED 1 million per year. 

• Have a business idea supported by a business incubator or the Ministry of Economy, being set up in UAE with an income of at least AED 2 million. 

• Have founded and sold a pioneering project for AED 7 million or more. 

Read more: How to Become an Entrepreneur in Dubai  

Dubai Golden Visa for skilled professionals 

You can get a Golden Visa through your UAE job if you earn a basic salary of AED 30,000 a month or more. 

Dubai requirements for golden visa for professionals: 

• A valid 2-year UAE employment contract. 

• A job at MOHRE skill level 1 or 2. 

• A bachelor’s degree or higher. Foreign degrees need recognition from the UAE Ministry of Education. 

• A basic salary of at least AED 30,000 a month. This does not include allowances.  

• Six months of bank statements that show your salary. 

• A professional licence if your job is regulated (like teacher or pharmacist). 

• Valid health insurance for self and family (being sponsored). 

Professionals from which fields can apply? 

Many fields qualify, including doctors, engineers, IT professionals, business executives, managers, game developers, writers, and medical professionals. 

Dubai Golden Visa for talents, scientists, athletes, and creative professionals 

The UAE Golden Visa is also for individuals in culture and art, innovators and inventors, athletes, and professionals with exceptional talent in digital technology.  

Applicants must provide: 

• Nomination or recommendation letter from the relevant authority. 

• Proven experience in their field. 

• Local or regional awards. 

• Collaborations with reputed organisations. 

• Published research. 

• Professional portfolios. 

• Academic qualifications. 

Within this category, the main types are: 

1. Golden Visa for doctors: 

Doctors can obtain a 10-year UAE Golden Visa after providing an approval letter from the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) confirming eligibility to practise medicine in the UAE. 

2. Golden Visa for scientists: 

Scientists need a recommendation letter from the Emirates Council of Scientists or the Mohammed bin Rashid Medal for Scientific Excellence confirming receipt of the Medal of Scientific Excellence. 

Useful insight: How to Start a Healthcare Business in Dubai 

3. Golden Visa for scholars: 

PhD holders in engineering, technology, life sciences, or natural sciences may also qualify for a Golden Visa Dubai. 

Requirements: 

• Hold at least a bachelor’s degree. 

• Have an FWCI score of 1.0 or higher. 

• Have valid health insurance. 

• Provide a recommendation letter from the relevant authority. 

4. Golden Visa for inventors: 

Inventors can receive a 10-year UAE Golden Visa by providing a recommendation letter from the Ministry of Economy confirming that their patent adds value to the national economy. 

5. Dubai Golden Visa for creative people: 

Individuals working in culture and the arts can obtain a 10-year Golden Visa Dubai by submitting an approval letter from the relevant Department of Culture and Arts. 

6. Golden Visa for athletes: 

Athletes and sports professionals can obtain a 10-year Golden Visa UAE by submitting a recommendation letter from the General Sports Authority or the relevant Sports Council. 

Golden Visa for top students and graduates 

Students or graduates with outstanding academic records can also qualify for the Golden Visa.

1. Golden visa requirements for high school students:

• Graduate from a UAE-licensed public or private school 

• Score 95% or equivalent, minimum 

• Certificate attested by the Ministry of Education 

2. Golden visa requirements for UAE university graduates:

• Bachelor’s degree recognised by the Ministry of Education 

• GPA of 3.5 (Category A) or 3.8 (Category B), minimum 

• Graduated within the last 2 years 

• Certificate authenticated by the Ministry of Higher Education 

3. Golden visa requirements for foreign university graduates:

• Graduated from a top 100 world-ranked university, as recognised by the Ministry of Education 

• Bachelor’s GPA of 3.5 minimum 

• Graduated within the last 2 years 

• Certificate authenticated by the Ministry of Higher Education 

Golden visa for humanitarian pioneers and frontline heroes 

You can qualify for a 10-year Dubai Golden Visa if you have made significant contributions to humanitarian or charitable causes, inside or outside the UAE. You need a recommendation letter from the Ministry of Community Empowerment. 

Requirements include: 

• 5+ years’ experience with regional or international organisations 

• 5+ years’ experience with civil associations and public-interest institutions 

• Appreciation award from a local, regional, or international humanitarian organisation 

• AED 2M (or equivalent) contributed to humanitarian causes 

• University degree 

The Golden Visa is also available to frontline heroes, such as nurses, doctors, and laboratory technicians, who have shown exceptional dedication during crises.  

New categories of golden visa introduced in 2026 

The list of people eligible for a Golden Visa Dubai has been expanded. New categories introduced in 2026 include: 

1. Golden Visa for Waqf Donors: For people who donate to Islamic endowments or charitable trusts. Applicants need a nomination from Awqaf Dubai, a donation of at least AED 2 million to a cause Awqaf Dubai recognises, and a bachelor’s degree. 
2. Golden Visa for Environmentalists (Blue Visa): For those who have made significant contributions to environmental protection and sustainability, inside or outside the UAE. It covers members of international organisations, companies, associations, and NGOs, as well as global award winners, environmental innovators, distinguished researchers, activists, and corporate leaders in environmental protection. Read more about the Blue Visa. 
3. Golden Visa for Nurses: Covers nurses who have served in Dubai Health for more than 15 years. They need a valid nursing license, a clear criminal record, an employment contract, and relevant work experience. Read more about the nurse Golden Visa. 
4. Golden Visa for Content Creators: Issued through Creator HQ initiative to content creators and influencers. Applicants need a proven track record of impactful content or creative work, or awards or recognition in their field, along with potential for growth in the industry. Read more about the content creator Golden Visa. 
5. Golden Visa for Educators: For school professionals, academic heads, managers, teachers and faculty members in early childhood centres, higher education, and private schools. Applicants need a proven impact on education quality, recognition in the education community and exceptional academic achievements. 

How to apply for a Golden Visa UAE in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or Other Emirates through ICP? 

ICP offers two channels: Customer Happiness Centres and Smart Services. Applicants across all emirates can apply for a Golden Visa through ICP. 

Here is a step-by-step guide to applying through Smart Services: 

1. First, go to the ICP website (icp.gov.ae). 
2. Next, open the “Services” menu and choose “Golden Residency Services”.
3. Select “applying for golden visas.”   
4. Next, choose the category you want to apply for by clicking “start service”. 
5. Enter your name, mobile number, email, nationality, and other category-specific details. 
6. Next, upload the required documents and review your application carefully before final submission. Errors can lead to rejection. 
7. Pay the fee to submit. 
8. Finally, the immigration department will review your application, and issue golden visa once approved.  

New rules for UAE golden visa in 2026 

Let us quickly review the UAE Golden Visa rules in 2026 to ensure you are updated: 

• Minimum down payment eliminated: UAE has removed the previous requirement for a minimum down payment of AED 1 million for property investment. 

• New qualification criteria: To qualify for a property investor golden visa, you now need to own property worth AED 2 million or more, whether it is off plan, completed, or mortgaged. 

• Lowered minimum salary requirement: The minimum monthly salary requirement has been reduced from AED 50,000 to AED 30,000, making more skilled professionals eligible for the long-term residency. 

What if you do not qualify for a Golden Visa? (Other options) 

You still have other ways to live in Dubai: 

• 2-year property investor visa: The DLD’s Taskeen service offers a 2-year residence visa to property owners. In April 2026, the DLD removed the minimum property value requirement of AED 750,000 for sole owners. They can now get the visa regardless of property value. Co-owners each need a registered share of at least AED 400,000. 

• Employment visa: Your UAE-based employer sponsors you for a 2-year work visa. You first need a job offer from a UAE company. 

• Retirement visa: Eligible retirees and their families can get a renewable 5-year residence visa. It comes with savings, property, and income thresholds. 

• Family visa: A resident family member can sponsor a visa for their parents, spouse, and children. They need to meet minimum salary and accommodation requirements. 

• Green Visa: Some self-sponsored employees, freelancers, and business owners qualify for a 5-year residence visa called the Green Visa. Requirements generally include a MOHRE-approved permit, a minimum business investment, minimum qualifications, and proof of financial stability, depending on the category. 

Our team can match you to the right option. Start with a free chat through our contact page. 

How does Dubiz Business Setup assist with the Golden Visa Dubai? 

 
We turn any complicated file into a clean, approved golden visa application. 

A Golden Visa file needs property records, salary proof, attestation, nominations, medical tests, and Emirates ID to line up. Dubiz, a business setup and Golden Visa consultancy in the UAE, handles the full file for you. We have a 90% approval rate and have secured 1,000+ Golden Visas for clients worldwide. Our experts deal with the immigration authorities and represent you as your PRO. 

Beyond the visa itself, we also help you set up the company or bank account your Golden Visa may need. See our mainland setup, free zone setup and business bank account services. 

That said, the government makes the final decision on every application. 

Talk to a Dubiz consultant for Golden Visa services: 

📞 Call: +971 56 369 5485  

💬 WhatsApp: +971563695485  

📧 Email: info@dubiz.co 

📍 Office: Al Manara Tower, Office 2908, Business Bay, Dubai 

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