What is the UAE Golden Visa and who qualifies?

The Golden Visa is a long-term (5- or 10-year) renewable UAE residence visa that does not require a sponsor and permits 100% ownership of a mainland UAE business ^[1].

Main qualifying categories under the Cabinet Resolution:

Investors

• Property investors: minimum AED 2 million in residential property, owned outright or financed (with the equity portion meeting the threshold) ^[2].
• Public investments: AED 2 million in an accredited UAE investment fund.

Entrepreneurs

• Owners of a project of technical or economic value approved by the Ministry of Economy.

Specialised talent

• Doctors, scientists, executives meeting income/qualification thresholds.
• Cultural icons, athletes, inventors with formal accreditation.

Outstanding students

• High-school top performers nationwide; UAE university graduates with set GPA thresholds.

Application is via the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) or the Dubai General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) for Dubai-based applicants. Renewals require maintaining the qualifying basis (e.g., property still owned, business still active).

For your specific situation — particularly converting from a standard residence visa or stacking multiple bases — consult a UAE-licensed immigration lawyer.