Dubai Golden Visa 2026: Eligibility, Benefits, Property Route, Nomination & Step-by-Step Application (Authoritative Guide)

01-Oct-2025 0 Comments
dubai golden visa 2026 - eligibility, benefits, aed 2m property route & how to apply

The Dubai Golden Visa is one of the most prestigious residency programs in the world, designed to attract investors, entrepreneurs, exceptional talents, and students. Launched in 2019, the program has evolved to become the ultimate pathway for those who want to live, work, study, and invest in the UAE with unmatched security and flexibility.

In this guide, we cover who is eligible, the AED 2 million property investment route, required documents, benefits, step-by-step application process, family rights, and more.


What Is the Dubai Golden Visa?

The Golden Visa is a long-term residence permit valid for 10 years, renewable, and available to selected categories of foreigners. Unlike standard residency visas, it does not require a local sponsor or employer.

Key Benefits of the Golden Visa in 2026

  • 10-year renewable residency.

  • No local sponsor or employer needed.

  • Ability to stay outside the UAE for over 6 months without losing residency.

  • Family sponsorship (spouse and children of any age).

  • Sponsor unlimited domestic workers.

  • If the main visa holder passes away, family members can remain in the UAE until visa expiry.

  • 6-month multiple-entry entry permit while the visa process is completed.


Who Can Apply for the Dubai Golden Visa?

The UAE has expanded the categories eligible for the Golden Visa in 2026.

Property Investors (AED 2 Million+)

Individuals who invest AED 2 million or more in property can qualify for the Golden Visa. This is one of the most popular pathways for investors and homeowners.

Entrepreneurs & Business Owners

Entrepreneurs who establish successful startups or hold shares in UAE-registered companies are eligible.

Investors in Public Investments

Significant investors in approved public funds or businesses can qualify under this route.

Exceptional Talents (arts, sports, culture, tech)

Artists, athletes, tech innovators, and cultural icons with recognized achievements and official endorsements can apply.

Scientists & Skilled Professionals

Recognized scientists, healthcare specialists, and professionals in high-demand fields may qualify with relevant endorsements.

Outstanding Students & Graduates

High-achieving students and graduates of UAE or top international universities may receive the Golden Visa.

Humanitarian Pioneers & Frontline Heroes

Individuals recognized for their contributions in humanitarian or frontline work are eligible with official approval.


Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Dubai Golden Visa in 2026

Golden Visa Nomination Request

  • Submit your details and category under the official nomination request form.

  • Provide supporting documents (property title deed, certificates, awards, endorsements, etc.).

  • Authorities review and issue approval or rejection.

Visa Application & Issuance

  • Upon nomination approval, submit the visa application.

  • If outside UAE, a 6-month multiple-entry entry permit is issued.

  • Complete medical tests, biometrics, and Emirates ID.

  • Golden Visa residence permit issued for 10 years.


Documents Required for Dubai Golden Visa

  • Valid passport.

  • Recent passport-size photos.

  • Property ownership certificate (for investors).

  • Educational and professional certificates (for students, professionals, scientists).

  • Endorsements from relevant authorities (for talents/scientists).

  • Health insurance coverage.

  • Completed visa application form.


Dubai Golden Visa Fees, Validity & Processing Time

  • Validity: 10 years, renewable.

  • Fees: Vary depending on category (approx. AED 2,800 – AED 4,800 for individuals; property investors may pay additional attestation/registration charges).

  • Processing Time: Usually within a few weeks to a few months, depending on category and document verification.


Family Sponsorship Rights Under Golden Visa

  • Spouse and children (no age limit) can be included.

  • Family members retain residency even if the main holder passes away.

  • Unlimited domestic workers can also be sponsored.


Common Mistakes & Reasons for Rejection

  • Submitting incomplete or unclear documents.

  • Property value under AED 2 million.

  • No valid endorsement for scientists, talents, or professionals.

  • Using unverified or fraudulent agents.

  • Misunderstanding Golden Visa vs. standard residency rules.


Dubai Golden Visa vs. 5-Year Green Visa

Feature Golden Visa Green Visa
Validity 10 Years 5 Years
Sponsor Needed No No
Eligible Categories Investors, talents, scientists, students, entrepreneurs Skilled employees, freelancers, self-employed
Family Sponsorship Spouse, children (no age limit), unlimited domestic workers Spouse, children (restricted conditions)

Why Apply With Dubai Visit Visa Online

  • Expert document verification to avoid rejections.

  • End-to-end support for nomination, application, and renewals.

  • Transparent pricing with no hidden charges.

  • Higher approval success rate with professional guidance.


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Frequently Asked Questions

Foreigners can live, work, do business, and learn in the UAE with no need for a native sponsor under the Golden Visa program. International owners of companies and entrepreneurs are also permitted to own 100% of their companies in the UAE.

It is possible for Golden Visa holders to sponsor their spouse, kids, and occasionally even parents. As long as the visa is valid, there are no limitations on the number of dependents or the length of time they can stay, unlike other visas.

Normally, the UAE does not offer ex-pats perpetual resident cards, but the golden visa is a renewable 10-year visa, therefore the ultimate effect is the same: green card in the UAE.

The Dubai Golden Visa, which is awarded to investors, entrepreneurs, highly qualified professionals, and extraordinary talents, is a long-term residency visa that is normally good for five or ten years. The Golden Visa provides extended stay and renewable residency rights, as contrast to a tourist visa, which is temporary and does not allow residency.

Golden Visa holders are able to work in the United Arab Emirates. But rather than short-term workers, who normally need an employment visa, this visa is mainly intended for people who make substantial contributions to the nation, including investors or highly qualified professionals.

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