The UAE continues to roll out the red carpet for global talent with its Golden Visa—a 10-year residency that lets professionals live, work, and study in the Emirates without the need for a sponsor. This initiative aims to attract and retain top-tier talent across various fields by offering stability and flexibility, including the ability to stay abroad for over six months without affecting residency.
As of late 2024 and early 2025, seven more professional groups can now apply:
- Educators: Outstanding private school teachers in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah are eligible, provided they’ve worked for at least three years and have made a measurable impact on their schools.
- Nurses: In honor of International Nurses Day, Dubai is granting Golden Visas to nurses with over 15 years of service at Dubai Health.
- Yacht Owners & Maritime Leaders: Abu Dhabi’s “Golden Quay” initiative welcomes luxury yacht owners (vessels 40m+) and executives in the yachting industry.
- Gaming & eSports Pros: If you’re a content creator, developer, or competitive gamer aged 25+, you can now self-sponsor under the culture and arts category.
- Religious Leaders: Long-serving imams, muftis, preachers, and scholars with 20+ years in Dubai are now eligible.
- Content Creators & Influencers: Through the Creators HQ platform, Dubai is offering long-term visas to digital creators, podcasters, and artists, aiming to boost its creative economy.
Environmentalists (Blue Visa): Recognizing efforts in sustainability, the Blue Visa honors activists, researchers, and NGO leaders making a difference locally and globally.
