The UAE residency system is built around choice and clarity. Whether you are investing in property, starting a business, working, freelancing, studying, or building a long-term life in the country, there is a visa designed for your situation.

Below is a breakdown of the main UAE visa types, explained simply.

Property Owner Visa (AED 750,000+)

2-Year Property Residency

This visa is designed for individuals who own residential property in the UAE.

Eligibility

• Property value starting from AED 750,000

• Property must be fully paid

• Residential property only

Key Notes

• Renewable every 2 years

• Family sponsorship is allowed

This visa is ideal for homeowners seeking residency without employment or business setup.

Golden Visa (AED 2,000,000+)

10-Year Long-Term Residency

The Golden Visa is the most powerful residency option for investors and families.

Eligibility

• Property value from AED 2,000,000

• Property does not need to be fully paid

• Off-plan or ready properties accepted

• Mortgages allowed (subject to conditions)

Benefits

• 10-year renewable residency

• Sponsor family and dependents

• No local sponsor required

This visa is built for long-term investors who want stability and flexibility.

Investor / Business Visa

Company Owner Residency

This visa applies to entrepreneurs who own or partner in a UAE-registered business.

Eligibility

• Mainland or Free Zone company

• Valid trade license

• Shareholder or company owner

Duration

• 2–3 years, renewable

Best For

• Business owners

• Entrepreneurs

• Founders

Employment Visa

Work Residency

The most common visa for professionals working in the UAE.

Eligibility

• UAE employer sponsorship

• Valid labor contract

Duration

• Usually 2 years

• Tied directly to employment

Important Note

• Visa ends if employment ends

Freelance / Remote Work Visa

Freelancer & Digital Nomad Residency

Designed for independent professionals and remote workers.

Eligibility

• Proof of income

• Relevant professional activity

• No local employer required

Best For

• Creators

• Consultants

• Remote workers

• Digital nomads

Blue Visa

10-Year Merit-Based Residency

A specialized visa for sustainability and climate impact professionals.

Eligibility

• Work in sustainability, environment, or climate fields

• Researchers, innovators, NGOs

• Merit-based (not investment-based)

Notes

• Limited eligibility

• Government nomination required

Student Visa

Education Residency

Issued to students enrolled in UAE institutions.

Eligibility

• Enrollment in UAE-approved institution

Duration

• Based on study period

Sponsor

• University or parent

Family / Dependent Visa

Residency for Family Members

Allows UAE residents to sponsor close family.

Eligibility

• Sponsored by a UAE resident (work, golden, or investor visa)

• Salary and housing requirements apply

Covers

• Spouse

• Children

• Parents (conditions apply)

Gaming & Sports Visa

Talent-Focused Residency

Designed for professionals in gaming and sports industries.

Eligibility

• Professionals in gaming, sports, streaming, game development, or related creative fields

• Proof of experience, portfolio, or recognition

• Approval through relevant UAE authorities

Duration

• Long-term residency (varies by program)

Best For

• Gamers

• Streamers

• Game developers

• Sports professionals

Important Note

• Talent-based, not property-based

• Subject to regulatory approval

Why Investors Choose the Golden Visa

For investors and families, the Golden Visa stands out because it offers:

• Long-term residency security

• Residency linked to real assets

• Flexible entry and exit

• Stability for families and wealth planning

Which UAE Visa Fits You?

• Buying property → Property Visa or Golden Visa

• Long-term investing → Golden Visa

• Running a business → Investor Visa

• Working in Dubai → Employment Visa

• Creators & remote talent → Freelance or Gaming Visa

• Sustainability & impact roles → Blue Visa

Final Thought

Dubai doesn’t offer confusion —
it offers options.

The right visa depends on your goals, not assumptions.