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UAE – Enhancements to the Golden Visa program and other updates.
January 30, 2025
By: Vivek Radhakrishnan, Immigration Manager, Middle East & Africa Operations, Newland Chase
The UAE has expanded its Golden Visa program in the past year to include more specialized professionals and high-net-worth individuals. This strategic move highlights the nation’s focus on attracting top talent in education, technology, luxury, and other sectors to drive economic growth and innovation.
Attracting outstanding teachers and educators.
Educationalists in Dubai education institutions/schools and universities can now apply for the Golden Visa, a new category introduced in October 2024 by the KHDA, recognizing outstanding contributions to private education. Eligible teachers, including those in early childhood centres, schools, and universities, can qualify based on their academic achievements, innovation, and efforts to improve educational standards. The 10-year renewable visa also allows recipients to sponsor their family members.
Ras Al Khaimah has also launched a similar Golden Visa program for private school educators, including teachers, principals, and school directors, reflecting the emirate’s commitment to educational excellence.
New Dubai Gaming Visa.
Dubai has launched the Dubai Gaming Visa as part of the Dubai Program for Gaming 2033 (DPG33), offering a 10-year Golden Visa for individuals in the gaming industry. Announced by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, this initiative aims to establish Dubai as a global gaming hub.
To apply, candidates must obtain an accreditation certificate from Dubai Culture and be at least 25 years old. Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) also offers support to gaming professionals, further strengthening the UAE’s commitment to the e-sports sector.
Golden Visa for luxury yacht owners.
Abu Dhabi has introduced the ‘Abu Dhabi Golden Quay’ initiative, offering a 10-year Golden Visa to luxury yacht owners. Launched by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT), in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office and Yas Marina, the program targets high-net-worth individuals looking to invest in the emirate.
Private yacht owners with vessels 40 meters or longer, along with key yachting industry professionals, can qualify for the visa. The program also extends residency to the family members of nominated individuals.
Further changes to Golden Visa rules.
Under a new rule in Dubai, employees applying for a Golden Visa under the Highly Skilled Professional category must have worked for the same local entity for a minimum of two years. Applicants who held employment with a different employer in the two years prior to their Golden Visa application may not meet eligibility criteria. Transfers within the same company or corporate group may require further clarification to assess eligibility. Previously, there was no requirement for employees to have a specific tenure with their current employer to apply for a Golden Visa. However, UAE Employment Residence Permit (ERP) holders now need to complete two years of continuous service with their current employer to qualify, and may need to renew their ERP to demonstrate a full two-year period.
Introduction of new Mission Visa.
The DDA Free Zone authorities have announced the introduction of the Mission Visa, a short-term work visa that allows applicants to take up temporary employment. Valid for three months from the date of entry or status change, it can be extended for a further three months. Based on our experience, we expect full implementation in the coming days, enabling companies in the DDA Free Zone to take advantage of this new visa option for short-term employment.
Update on the KSA Mission in UAE.
According to a recent announcement, Saudi authorities have updated the process for Qualification Verification Program (QVP) registration requirements. Previously, work visa applications were accepted at KSA Mission in UAE once QVP registration was submitted. However, the authorities have now clarified that the registration will only be considered complete once the QVP approval certificate is received, and that it should be included as part of the application submission.
Please reach out to your Newland Chase dedicated contact or submit an inquiry should you have any specific questions regarding this announcement.
This immigration update is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal or scenario-specific advice. Furthermore, it is important to note that immigration announcements are subject to sudden and unexpected changes. Readers are encouraged to reach out to Newland Chase for any case- or company-specific assessments.