3 New Golden Visa Categories in Dubai

Recently, the United Arab Emirates broadened its Golden Visa program, offering long-term residence to a wider range of skilled professionals and affluent individuals. This strategic expansion reflects the nation’s commitment to attracting exceptional talent in education, technology, and luxury industries, fostering economic growth and innovation. Below are the latest categories added to the UAE’s Golden Visa program:

1. Teachers and Educators

Educators working in Dubai’s schools and universities are now eligible for the Golden Visa, introduced by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) in October 2024. This long-term visa is awarded to teachers who have made significant contributions to the private education sector in Dubai. Eligible educators include those in Early Childhood Centers (ECC), schools, and Higher Education Institutions (HEI), based on their academic achievements, innovations in education, and efforts to enhance institutional standards.

The Golden Visa provides renewable 10-year residency, allowing recipients to live and work in Dubai, with the added benefit of sponsoring family members, including spouses, children, and parents. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria set by the KHDA.

Similarly, Ras Al Khaimah launched a Golden Visa program to recognize the contributions of private school educators. Teachers, principals, department heads, and school directors can now apply, emphasizing the emirate’s dedication to educational excellence.

2. Golden Visa for Gaming Professionals

Dubai has taken a major step to support its esports industry by introducing the “Dubai Gaming Visa” under the Dubai Program for Gaming 2033 (DPG33). This 10-year Golden Visa is available to individuals working in the gaming industry and was launched by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense of the UAE, and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council.

Applicants must obtain an accreditation certificate from Dubai Culture and meet the minimum age requirement of 25 years. This initiative aims to position Dubai as a global hub for video games and esports while streamlining visa applications for professionals in this sector.

In Abu Dhabi, the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) also supports gaming professionals and esports talent through its Golden Visa program, reinforcing the UAE’s dedication to this booming industry.

3. Golden Visa for Luxury Yacht Owners

Luxury yacht owners in Abu Dhabi are now eligible for a 10-year Golden Visa through the “Abu Dhabi Golden Quay” initiative. This exclusive visa category was launched by the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office and Yas Marina to attract wealthy individuals to invest in the emirate.

Private yacht owners with vessels measuring 40 meters or more can be nominated for the Golden Visa. The initiative also includes key executives in the yachting sector, shareholders of yacht manufacturing companies, major agents, service providers, and insurers, all eligible for long-term residency in Dubai. Additionally, family members of nominees are granted residency under this program.

Beyond the highly popular property-linked Golden Visa, the UAE continues to demonstrate its commitment to diversifying and bolstering its economic sectors while attracting global talent. With aspirations to become a global hub in various fields, Dubai has launched strategic initiatives to enhance its appeal for long-term residence options. These efforts present significant opportunities, not only for residents but also for the nation, which aims to stabilize its economy and drive further development.

For more information about the Golden Visa in Dubai or assistance with your visa application, contact us at support@merritt.group.