UAE Golden Visa
The UAE Golden Visa has quickly become one of the most sought-after residence programs in the world. Offering 5- and 10-year renewable residence permits for investors, entrepreneurs, professionals, and outstanding students, it is designed to attract the world’s brightest minds and wealthiest investors to Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
At Affinitas DMCC, we specialise in guiding global clients through the Golden Visa application, investment structuring, and compliance requirements. Whether through real estate, business formation, or specialised talent recognition, we ensure your UAE residence is both secure and tax-efficient.
“The Golden Visa is part of our vision to make the UAE the best destination for talent, investment, and innovation.” – Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum
UAE Golden Visa with Affinitas DMCC
Secure a 5–10 year UAE Golden Visa through real estate, business, or investment.
📞 Free Consultation with Affinitas Golden Visa Experts
Phone: +971 (0) 4 576 2903
What Is the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residence program introduced in 2019 and expanded in 2021. It allows foreigners to live, work, study, and invest in the UAE without needing a local sponsor.
Key Benefits:
Long-term residence (5 or 10 years).
Renewable, provided requirements are maintained.
Includes family members (spouse, children, parents).
Allows sponsoring of domestic workers.
100% foreign business ownership rights.
No personal income tax.
Safe environment with world-class infrastructure.
🔗 Explore: Business Setup in Dubai
Golden Visa Categories
The UAE Golden Visa can be obtained under the following categories:
| Category | Investment / Requirement | Visa Duration | Eligible Family |
|---|---|---|---|
| Investors | AED 2M public investment fund, company formation, or bank deposit | 10 years | Spouse, children, 1 advisor, 1 executive |
| Real Estate Investors | AED 2M+ freehold property purchase | 5–10 years | Spouse, children |
| Entrepreneurs | AED 500K+ in startup capital or incubator approval | 5 years | Spouse, children, 1 partner, 3 executives |
| Specialised Talents | Scientists, doctors, inventors, artists, cultural leaders | 10 years | Spouse, children |
| Outstanding Students | 95%+ high school average or top-ranked university graduates | 5 years | Family sponsorship allowed |
📌 Pro Tip: In October 2022, eligibility was widened to include more professionals (e.g., doctors, engineers, creatives). This expansion significantly increased Golden Visa issuance, especially in Dubai.
Real Estate Investment Route
Minimum AED 2 million purchase in freehold zones (Dubai Land Department).
Must be fully paid (mortgage only allowed via approved UAE banks).
Property must not be gifted or inherited.
Eligible for 5 or 10-year residence depending on valuation.
💡 In 2024, foreign investors accounted for 40% of Dubai property ownership, making this the most popular Golden Visa route.
Public Investment Route
AED 2 million+ in a public investment fund or company.
Must contribute at least AED 250,000 annually in UAE taxes (Federal Tax Authority).
Investor + family + 1 executive director + 1 advisor included.
Business & Entrepreneur Route
Set up a Free Zone or Mainland company with AED 500,000+ in capital.
Approval from a UAE-accredited business incubator also possible.
Comes with a 5-year visa, renewable if the business remains active.
🔗 Related Service: Company Formation in Dubai
Golden Visa for Specialised Talents
Reserved for individuals with outstanding achievements in science, medicine, culture, or business leadership.
Examples:
Doctors accredited by the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention.
Scientists recognised by the Emirates Scientists Council.
Inventors with patents approved by the Ministry of Economy.
Artists accredited by the UAE Ministry of Culture.
Application Process
Apply for a 6-month entry permit.
Complete medical test & background check.
Submit investment documents (real estate title deed, company license, etc.).
Apply through GDRFA Dubai or ICP UAE.
Receive Emirates ID and residence permit.
Processing time: 3–6 weeks.
Renewal Requirements
Must maintain investment or company ownership.
Absence from UAE for over 6 months may invalidate the visa.
Must renew Emirates ID, insurance, tenancy, and medical check.
“We want Dubai to be the city of the future, and the Golden Visa is an open invitation to the world’s top talent.” – Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum
| Country | Minimum Investment | Visa Length | Path to Citizenship | Taxes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UAE | AED 2M (~USD 544K) | 5–10 years | No direct path | 0% personal income tax, 9% corporate tax |
| Portugal | €500K real estate (phased out in 2023 for property) | 5 years | Citizenship after 5 years | 28% personal income tax, corporate tax 21%+ |
| Spain | €500K real estate | 2 years (renewable) | Citizenship after 10 years | High taxes (IRPF up to 47%) |
| Malta | €600K donation + real estate | 1 year (residence), 3 years (citizenship) | Citizenship fast-track | 35% corporate tax (with rebates) |
📌 Key Advantage: The UAE is one of the only countries offering 0% personal tax + long-term residency without requiring permanent relocation.
Golden Visa Key Facts (2025)
150,000+ Golden Visas issued since launch (GDRFA 2024).
70% of Fortune 500 companies have HQs in Dubai (PwC Middle East).
UAE is ranked #1 in MENA and #10 worldwide for ease of doing business (World Bank).
Dubai International Airport handles 88M+ passengers annually (DXB Official).
Why Work with Affinitas DMCC?
Offices in Dubai, Malta, Georgia, Switzerland, Luxembourg.
Experts in corporate tax, redomiciliation, and compliance management.
Tailored solutions for HNWIs, family offices, and entrepreneurs.
Track record of helping clients achieve residence and global structuring goals.
🔗 Also Read: Redomiciliation in the UAE
Get Started with Your UAE Golden Visa
Securing your Golden Visa is not just about paperwork – it’s about structuring your wealth and business for maximum benefit under UAE law.
At Affinitas DMCC, we guide you through every step:
Selecting the best investment pathway.
Structuring your company for corporate tax efficiency.
Ensuring compliance with UAE and international standards.
FAQs About the UAE Golden Visa
No. The UAE rarely grants citizenship by decree. The Golden Visa is a residence-only program.
Yes – initial applications are often made via a 6-month entry permit.
Yes – all Golden Visa categories allow family sponsorship.
No – you only need to enter the UAE once every 6 months to maintain residence.
Yes – Dubai ranks among the top 10 safest cities in the world for foreigners.
UAE Golden Visa with Affinitas DMCC
Secure a 5–10 year UAE Golden Visa through real estate, business, or investment.
📞 Free Consultation with Affinitas Golden Visa Experts
Phone: +971 (0) 4 576 2903