What is a residence visa?
A UAE residence visa is a long-term visa similar to a residence permit in some other countries. It allows foreigners to live in the Emirates for an extended period and can be renewed multiple times. Many families from other countries have been living in the Emirates for generations by regularly renewing their visas.
How to obtain a Residence Visa
- Register a company
- Purchase property worth at least 750,000 AED
- Invest in the UAE economy
- Get a job at a UAE company
- Become a freelancer
- Move as a “digital nomad” or work remotely for a company outside the UAE
- Enrol in a college or university in the Emirates
- Apply for a Pensioner Visa
- Apply for a Talent Visa
- Apply for a Family Visa
The following sections will explore the most popular ways to obtain residency.
Is it mandatory to live in the UAE continuously?
Currently, only Golden Visa holders have no restrictions on staying outside the UAE without losing their residency status. For most visa types, holders must enter the Emirates every six months. For partner and investor visas, the period of stay outside the UAE is extended to one year.
However, residents can apply for a Return Permit at the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai (GDRFAD) for reasonable delays (e.g., education, medical treatment, force majeure). Supporting documents will be required!
How to obtain UAE citizenship?
You can apply for Emirati citizenship after 30 years of living in the country or earlier for significant contributions to the state. Typically, you'll be required to renounce other citizenships.
Benefits of UAE Residency
1. Low tax burden
- No personal income tax, property tax, dividends, or capital gains tax for individuals.
- One of the world’s lowest corporate tax rates at 9% with tax optimization opportunities in free zones.
2. Personal and corporate bank accounts UAE residents can open bank accounts in Emirati and international banks for safe savings and international transactions in US dollars, euros and dirhams.
3. Permanent living in a highly developed, stable, and safe country With UAE residency, live in a multicultural and multiethnic country consistently ranked among the top 5 safest countries worldwide.
4. Access to quality healthcare and education A priority in the UAE is continuously improving healthcare services, attracting skilled doctors worldwide, and building modern medical centers. The government aims to make the UAE an international medical tourism hub.
5. Great opportunities for building an international business and networking The UAE attracts more entrepreneurs and investors each year, offering excellent collaboration opportunities, networking, and international market expansion.