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1. Investors (Public Investment or Fixed Deposit)
Minimum investment of AED 2 million in UAE-approved investment funds, a fixed deposit, or government-linked assets—with proof of AED 250,000 in annual tax contributions and no loans allowed.
Funds typically must be held for at least two years.
2. Real Estate Investors
Purchase property in your own name worth at least AED 2 million (multiple properties allowed, but each must meet the threshold). Mortgage down to 50% equity may be acceptable.
Both completed and off-plan properties qualify if purchased from government-approved developers and meet equity criteria. Investors often receive a 10-year visa.
3. Entrepreneurs & Startup Founders
Must own or found a business valued at AED 500,000 or more, approved by a recognized UAE incubator or authority.
4. Skilled Professionals
Professionals in fields such as AI, healthcare, biotech, engineering, finance, and more.
Requirements:
- Valid employment contract in the UAE
- Monthly salary of AED 30,000+
- Relevant bachelor’s degree (often with Ministry of Education equivalency)
- Typically 2–5 years of experience
5. Scientists, Researchers & Exceptional Talents
Criteria include:
- PhD or advanced degree plus research publications, patents, or awards
- Endorsement from Emirates Scientists Council or cultural authorities
- Fields include science, culture, arts, innovation, sports
6. Outstanding Students and Graduates
Eligibility for:
- UAE secondary students with 95%+ grades
- University graduates with GPA ≥ 3.8 or graduates from top 100 global universities
7. Other Emerging Categories (2025 Updates)
Expanded eligibility now includes:
- Long-serving nurses (15+ years in Dubai health sector)
- Private educators (teachers & administrators in top schools)
- Digital creators and social media influencers
- E-sports professionals (aged 25+, approved by Dubai Culture)
- Luxury yacht owners (vessels ≥ 40m) or executives in the maritime sector
- Humanitarian pioneers, sustainability experts, and more
- Nomination-based route (pilot for India/Bangladesh): AED 100,000 application fee; no investment required
General Application Requirements (All Categories)
Regardless of the category, applicants must submit:
- Valid passport (6-month validity)
- Clean criminal record / background check
- Medical fitness test
- Approved UAE health insurance
- Category-specific documentation: proof of investment, employment, endorsements, academic records
Summary Table: Dubai Golden Visa Eligibility
| Category | Key Requirement | Visa Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Public Investor / Fixed Deposit | AED 2M investment / fixed deposit + tax proof | 10 years |
| Real Estate Investor | AED 2M in downloadable or off-plan property | 10 years |
| Entrepreneurs | AED 500K+ startup value + incubator approval | 5–10 years |
| Skilled Professionals | AED 30K+ salary, degree, UAE contract | 10 years |
| Scientists / Talents | Advanced degree, endorsements, notable work | 10 years |
| Outstanding Students | 95%+ (school) or GPA ≥ 3.8 | 5–10 years |
| New Categories | Role-based eligibility (e.g. nurses, creators) | 10 years |
| Nomination-Based (Pilot) | AED 100K fee, contributions only | 10 years |
Recommendations
-
- Clarify your category of interest — investment, employment, talent, etc.
- Confirm current salary or investment documentation before applying.
- Seek official authority guidance: applications are processed through ICP or GDRFA (Dubai).
- Consider professional assistance to validate documents and fast-track your application.
The Author Mr. Jyotirmay Jhaver is Founder CEO of Apply Overseas. He can be contacted by email on applyoverseas.in@gmail.com or phone +91 9879578575
Disclaimer:
This is based on my experience (I’m not a lawyer or immigration advisor) and you should seek professional legal advice if you are unsure. Visit https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id/residence-visas/golden-visa to check if there have been any changes to the List or eligibility criteria. This is a personal blog / article, In addition, my thoughts and opinions change from time to time I consider this a necessary consequence of having an open mind. This blog disclaimer is subject to change at any time without notifications. The views of the author may not necessarily reflect those of the firm. It is intended solely for information purpose and may differ from actual facts and figures. If you are not the intended recipient, any form of reproduction, dissemination, copying, disclosure, modification, distribution and/or publication or any action taken or omitted to be taken in reliance upon this message or its attachments is prohibited and may be unlawful.