The UAE offers various residency options for expatriates through investment programs.
- The UAE Golden Visa allows foreign nationals to gain residency via significant investment.
- Entrepreneurs with substantial business contributions are eligible for long-term visas.
- Special talents such as doctors and scientists can apply for extended residency.
- Retirement visas are available for senior investors meeting specific financial criteria.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) presents an array of opportunities for expatriates seeking residency through investment. Significant investment in approved sectors can qualify individuals for the coveted UAE Golden Visa, offering not only residency but also a path to citizenship. This program is particularly appealing to investors and skilled professionals striving for enhanced family security and improved quality of life.
To be eligible for the 10-year Golden Visa, investors must commit at least AED 10 million in public investments. Crucially, 60% of this investment should be in sectors other than real estate, ensuring a diversified contribution to the UAE’s economy. Additionally, investors must retain ownership without loans for a minimum of three years. This visa significantly benefits the holder’s immediate family, along with an executive director and an advisor.
The program extends beyond investors, embracing entrepreneurs engaged in businesses with a minimum capital of AED 10 million or those linked with accredited business incubators. Notably, individuals with exceptional talents—spanning researchers, medical professionals, and outstanding students—are also eligible for a 10-year residency. Their contributions are recognized through accreditations, ensuring both personal growth and familial stability in the UAE.
A three-year investor visa is an alternative for individuals investing in real estate, requiring a minimum property investment of AED 750,000. This provision ensures that investors, along with their families, can reside in the UAE, enjoying its burgeoning developments and dynamic lifestyle.
The five-year retirement visa caters to investors over 55 years, allowing residence given substantial financial investments. Options include investing in Dubai property valued at Dh2,000,000 ($542,000), securing savings of Dh1,000,000 ($271,000), or maintaining an income of Dh20,000 ($5,417) monthly. These conditions aim to offer retirees a comfortable living parallel to nationals, with similar government benefits.
Residents holding a UAE visa gain access to numerous privileges, such as sponsoring family members, banking facilities, and business operations. Moreover, visa holders benefit from visa-free travel to certain nations, healthcare services, better career opportunities, and the acquisition of a UAE driver’s license. These advantages position the UAE as a favorable destination for expatriates.
The UAE’s residency by investment scheme is a strategic initiative catering to various investor profiles, offering both flexibility and benefits.
