Dubai has become a hub for global talent providing exceptional opportunities for its residents and visitors in a wide range of aspects of innovation & ingenuity. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has offered various visa options to attract professionals, investors, entrepreneurs and tourists and for the past 10 years the country has provided exceptional opportunities to visitors to stay within the country for long-term without a need of a sponsor. Among these opportunities are the Golden visa, Green visa and the Blue visa. These visa categories are curated to offer special opportunities to those who can meet the basic requirements under each visa criteria which in turn improves the country’s economic performance while providing exemplary opportunities within the Arabian culture.
The Golden Visa
What is it? The Golden visa was the first of its criteria released back in the year 2019 and was announced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa designed to enable foreign talents to live, work or study in the UAE while enjoying exclusive benefits. It also permits investors, entrepreneurs, specialized talents, researchers, and outstanding students to apply in this category. It allows the holders to live, work, and study in the UAE without the need for a national sponsor and with 100% ownership of their businesses.
Eligibility Criteria:
Investors:
Individuals with investments in the UAE.
Entrepreneurs:
Owners of successful projects or those with innovative business ideas.
Specialized Talents:
Doctors, scientists, researchers, and other highly skilled professionals.
Outstanding Students:
Top-performing students from UAE schools and universities, as well as exceptional students from around the world.
Benefits:
Long-term residency (up to 10 years)
Ability to sponsor family members
No need for a local sponsor
100% business ownership in the UAE
The Green Visa
What is it? The Green Visa is aimed at mid-level professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors. It provides a five-year residency with the possibility of renewal, offering a more accessible option for those who do not meet the high requirements of the Golden Visa.
Eligibility Criteria:
Mid-Level Professionals:
Those with a steady job in the UAE and sufficient income.
Entrepreneurs and Investors:
Individuals with modest investments or business ventures in the UAE.
Benefits:
Five-year residency with the possibility of renewal
Ability to sponsor family members
No need for an employer or sponsor
Enhanced job security and stability
The Blue Visa
What is it? In a post on social media platform X, the Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid said,
“The year 2024 will be the year of sustainability. Today we approved the “Blue Residency” which is a long-term residency for a period of 10 years that will be granted to individuals with exceptional contributions and efforts in the field of protecting the environment, whether marine or land or the quality of the air environment, sustainability and its modern technologies, the circular economy, or other fields”
This initiative was announced after a Cabinet meeting under the leadership of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and the Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. It is in line with the UAE’s strategic goals of making the country more sustainable. Dr Sjultan Al Jaber, COP28 President and Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, stated that the Blue Residency Visa will help attract global leaders.
Eligibility Criteria:
This visa is given to supporters of environmental action, including members of international organizations, international companies, members of associations and non-governmental organizations, global award winners, and distinguished activists and researchers in environmental work.
The UAE’s visa options are designed to cater to a diverse range of expatriates, from high-net-worth investors to skilled professionals and entrepreneurs. Whether you are looking for long-term residency, job flexibility, or business opportunities, there is a visa that can meet your needs. Understanding the differences and benefits of the Golden, Blue, and Green visas is crucial in making an informed decision about your future in the UAE. Each visa offers unique advantages, so it’s essential to assess your situation and choose the one that aligns with your goals.