UAE Golden Visa expands: Three key Categories now eligible

Published on: 02 February 2025

The UAE has included three new categories in its Golden Visa program as part of its commitment to attract top talent across the education and technology sectors and high-net-worth individuals. 

As of October 2024, educators in Dubai schools and universities are eligible to apply for the Golden Visa. This long-term residency is granted to exceptional teachers who have made outstanding contributions to the UAE’s private education sector. The Golden Visa provides a renewable residency period of 10 years that allows recipients to live and work in Dubai. Additionally, they are allowed to sponsor their family members. 

Educators employed in early childhood centers, schools, and higher education institutions can qualify for the program based on their academic achievements, contributions to innovation in education, and efforts towards improving the educational standards in their institutions. They need to meet specific eligibility criteria set by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).

The Golden Visa program has also been expanded to teachers, principals, heads of departments, and school directors in Ras Al Khaimah to recognize the contributions of private school educators. 

Another new category of the 10-year Golden Visa is the ‘Dubai Gaming Visa’ under the Dubai Program for Gaming 2033 (DPG2033). This category was launched to support the growing e-sports scene and to position Dubai as a global gaming hub. To apply for this category, candidates must obtain an accreditation certificate from the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority and be at least 25 years old. 

The final addition to the Golden Visa categories targets luxury yacht owners in Abu Dhabi. The “Abu Dhabi Golden Quay” initiative aims to draw high-net-worth individuals to invest in the UAE. 

To be nominated for the Golden Visa, private yacht owners must own vessels that are 40 meters or longer. The initiative also includes key executives in the yachting sector, shareholders of yacht-building companies, major agents, service providers, and insurers. The family members of nominated individuals will also qualify for residency under this program.

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