The UAE’s Golden Visa has proven to be a significant initiative because since its launch in 2019, it has been quite effective in attracting and retaining top global talent, entrepreneurs, investors, and skilled professionals in the region. 

The Golden Visa program offers long-term residency for 5 or 10 years, allowing entrepreneurs, investors, and working professionals to live, work, or study in the UAE while enjoying a range of exclusive benefits. 

This post provides the necessary details of the Golden Visa program including the eligibility requirements, benefits, and the application process for business owners and entrepreneurs who want to take advantage of this unique residency program. 

UAE Golden Visa for Business Owners: Everything You Need to Know 

1. What is the UAE Golden Visa? 

The Golden Visa is a long-term residency program designed to attract investors, entrepreneurs, exceptional professionals, scientists, and high-achieving students. It offers a renewable residence permit valid for 5 or 10 years, eliminating the need for frequent visa renewals.

Key features of the Golden Visa include: 

• No requirement for a local sponsor. 

• Freedom to stay outside the UAE for extended periods (over six months) without losing residency. 

• The ability to sponsor family members, including spouses, children of any age, and parents. 

• Permission to hire an unlimited number of domestic workers. 

• Assurance that family members can remain in the UAE even if the primary visa holder passes away.

The program is designed to enhance the UAE’s appeal as a global business hub, attracting skilled professionals and investors who can contribute to the nation’s economy.

2. Benefits of the Golden Visa for Business Owners

This program offers several advantages that make it an attractive option for business owners and investors looking to establish a long-term presence in the UAE. 

• Long-Term Residency – Stay in the UAE for 5 or 10 years without the need for frequent renewals. 

• 100% Business Ownership – Unlike standard work visas, Golden Visa holders can own businesses outright without needing a local sponsor. 

• No Sponsorship Requirement – Business owners can self-sponsor, giving them greater flexibility in managing their operations. 

• Extended Travel Flexibility – Unlike other residency visas, Golden Visa holders can stay outside the UAE for more than six months without losing their residency status. 

• Family Sponsorship – Easily sponsor spouses, children, and parents with fewer restrictions. 

• Exclusive Benefits – Access to premium health insurance plans, fast-track UAE driving license approvals, and exclusive investment opportunities. 

For business owners, the Golden Visa provides a stable, long-term residency solution, making it easier to focus on business expansion and investment in the UAE. 

3. Who is Eligible for the Golden Visa? 

The UAE offers the Golden Visa to several categories of individuals, including business owners, investors, and high-achieving professionals. Below are the key eligibility criteria for each category. 

3.1 Investors in Public Investments (10-Year Visa) 

To qualify for a 10-year Golden Visa, investors must meet one of the following conditions: 

• Provide a letter from an accredited UAE investment fund confirming a deposit of at least AED 2 million. 

• Hold a valid commercial or industrial license and provide proof of capital worth AED 2 million or more. 
• Submit a letter from the Federal Tax Authority confirming they pay at least AED 250,000 in annual taxes. 

Additional Conditions: 

• The investment must not be loaned (proof of full ownership required). 

• Medical insurance is required for the investor and family members. 

3.2 Real Estate Investors (5-Year Visa) 

Real estate investors can qualify for a 5-year renewable Golden Visa if they: 

• Own property or multiple properties in the UAE worth at least AED 2 million. 

• Purchase the property using a loan from an approved UAE bank. 

This visa is ideal for business owners who want to invest in real estate while maintaining business operations in the UAE. 

3.3 Entrepreneurs (5-Year Visa) 

Entrepreneurs can apply for a 5-year Golden Visa if they own an innovative business or startup with a high potential for growth. Applicants must provide: 

• A letter from an accredited UAE auditor confirming the project’s value is at least AED 500,000. 

• A verification letter from local authorities confirming the project’s significance. 

• A letter from an accredited business incubator confirming support for the startup. 

3.4 Outstanding Specialized Talents (10-Year Visa) 

Business owners who are experts in specialized fields such as medicine, technology, and science can qualify for the Golden Visa under the outstanding talents category. Eligibility requirements for specialized professionals include: 

• Doctors – Approval letter from the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention. 

• Scientists – Recommendation from the Emirates Council of Scientists. 

• Inventors – Patent approval from the Ministry of Economy. 

• Executives – Minimum 5 years of experience, a bachelor’s degree, and a salary of AED 50,000 or more. 

• Creative Professionals (Artists, Musicians, etc.) – Approval from the Department of Culture and Arts. 

4. How to Apply for the Golden Visa? 

The UAE has streamlined the Golden Visa application process to ensure a hassle-free experience. Applicants can apply through: 

• The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP). 

• The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). 

• The official ICP and GDRFA websites or mobile apps. 

Application Process:

– Create an account on the ICP or GDRFA portal.

– Fill out the application form, providing all required details. 

 – Submit supporting documents, including: 

• Business trade license. 

• Financial statements. 

• Proof of investment (for investors). 

• Tax payment certificate (if applicable). 

– Pay the required fees (varies based on category).

– Await approval and receive your Golden Visa within 30–60 days. 

The UAE also offers a “One Touch” Golden Visa service to streamline applications, allowing applicants to apply, renew, and track their visa status in a single step. 

5. Renewal and Validity of the Golden Visa

• Real estate investors, entrepreneurs, and business owners can renew their Golden Visa every 5 or 10 years, depending on the visa category. 
• Renewal applications must be submitted before the visa expires, ensuring continuity of residency benefits.

Get Your Golden Visa and Access the UAE’s Exclusive Benefits

The UAE Golden Visa presents a unique opportunity for business owners and entrepreneurs to establish long-term residency in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. 

With benefits like 100% business ownership, extended stay flexibility, and family sponsorship, the Golden Visa offers a secure and stable environment for business growth.

If you’re a business owner looking to expand in the UAE, now is the time to explore the Golden Visa program and secure your long-term future in this thriving business hub. For more details on eligibility, application, and benefits, consult a Golden Visa expert from Nimbus Consultancy to guide you through the process.