UAE
The United Arab Emirates, particularly Dubai and Abu Dhabi, continues to attract international professionals, investors, entrepreneurs and multinational businesses seeking long-term growth opportunities, regional expansion and lifestyle benefits. The UAE offers a broad range of immigration pathways, including employment visas, investor visas, business setup solutions and long-term residency through the UAE Golden Visa programme.
As a leading immigration law firm with extensive GCC experience, Hudson McKenzie advises individuals and corporate clients on UAE immigration matters, providing tailored support across all Emirates through our Dubai office and regional network.
Visit Visa
The UAE issues short-stay visit visas for purposes such as tourism, business meetings, conferences, exhibitions and similar activities. Depending on the applicant's nationality and purpose of travel, visit visas are generally issued for 30 or 60 days.
Nationals of certain countries, including the United Kingdom, may be eligible to obtain a visit entry permit upon arrival in the UAE, subject to immigration approval and passport eligibility requirements. Other nationalities may require a visa to be arranged in advance through the relevant UAE authority or an approved sponsor.
Business visitors should ensure that their activities remain within the permitted scope of a visit visa. Undertaking employment or conducting work activities in the UAE requires the appropriate work authorisation and residence permit.
Mission Visa (Short-Term Work)
The UAE Mission Visa allows foreign nationals to undertake temporary work assignments or project-based activities in the UAE for a limited period without obtaining long-term residence status. This route is commonly used for short-term professional engagements, including technical projects, training assignments, consultancy services and similar temporary work activities.
The visa is generally issued for a short duration subject to the nature of the assignment and approval from the relevant UAE authorities. Applicable rules and procedures may vary depending on whether the sponsoring entity is established in mainland UAE or within a Free Zone authority.
Employer sponsorship is required in all cases, and the sponsoring company must obtain the necessary work authorisation approvals before the individual may legally perform work activities in the UAE. This route is suitable for companies requiring foreign professionals to undertake temporary assignments in the UAE without entering into a long-term employment arrangement.
Employment Visa and Family Sponsorship
The UAE Employment Visa is for foreign nationals planning to live and work in the UAE on an ongoing basis. The visa is employer-sponsored and issued for up to two years, with renewal subject to continuation of the employment relationship. It is available through both mainland companies and free zone entities, though the sponsoring authority and relevant regulations differ between the two. Key requirements include a confirmed employment contract, appropriate qualifications for the role, a medical fitness certificate and Emirates ID registration. Sponsored employees in qualifying circumstances may also be able to sponsor family members as dependants, subject to meeting applicable salary thresholds. For specific guidance for UK nationals and businesses relocating to or operating in the UAE, see our article on UAE immigration for UK nationals and businesses.
Family Visa and Dependant Sponsorship
Foreign nationals residing in the UAE under an Employment Visa, Golden Visa or other long-term residence permit may be eligible to sponsor qualifying family members as dependants. Eligible dependants typically include a spouse and children under the age of 18. Sponsorship is conditional on the sponsor meeting a minimum monthly salary threshold, demonstrating suitable accommodation arrangements and providing the required documentation. Dependants are issued a UAE residence visa linked to the sponsor's status. Hudson McKenzie advises on family sponsorship eligibility and can support the full application process.
UAE Golden Visa (Long-Term Residency)
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residence programme allowing eligible foreign nationals to reside in the UAE for up to 10 years with renewable residency benefits. The programme is available across several categories, including real estate investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, executives, scientists and individuals with specialised talents.
As of 2026, property investors may qualify through ownership of UAE real estate with a minimum value of AED 2 million. In certain off-plan property cases, eligibility may also depend on the percentage of payment already made towards the property and approval from the relevant authority or developer.
Skilled professionals may qualify subject to meeting salary and professional eligibility requirements, which generally include a minimum monthly salary threshold of AED 30,000, a valid UAE employment contract and qualifications relevant to the approved professional category.
Entrepreneurs and business owners may qualify through ownership or establishment of UAE-based companies that satisfy the applicable investment and operational requirements. Nomination-based Golden Visa routes may also be available in specific circumstances, subject to approval by the relevant UAE authorities and internal nomination criteria.
The UAE Golden Visa provides significant benefits, including long-term residency security, family sponsorship, flexibility of stay outside the UAE and the ability to sponsor domestic staff in qualifying cases.
For full details on eligibility, application process and how Hudson McKenzie can support your Golden Visa application, see our dedicated UAE Golden Visa service page.
Business Setup and Freelance Permit
UAE company setup
Setting up a company in the UAE provides access to a thriving business environment, tax-free benefits, and strategic geographical advantages. The UAE offers various options for company formation:
Mainland Company
Such companies can operate anywhere in the UAE with no limitations on trade.
Free Zone Company
A Free Zone Company is designed to provide 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and ease of doing business.
Offshore Company
Ideal for international business, offering privacy and low operational costs.
Our Services include
- Business consultation and legal structure advice.
- Documentation preparation and license acquisition.
- Assistance with processing visas for business owners and employees.
- Support with Bank account opening and any associated PRO services.
Freelance Permit
The UAE freelance permit framework has undergone significant regulatory changes since 2024, with increased scrutiny and temporary restrictions affecting certain categories, nationalities and jurisdictions. While freelance permits continue to be available in selected UAE free zones and sectors, approval criteria and practical processing outcomes may vary depending on the applicant's nationality, professional activity and immigration history.
In many cases, applicants are now considering alternative structures such as mainland company setup, free zone company incorporation or investor visa routes instead of standalone freelance permits. Hudson McKenzie regularly advises clients on the most practical and compliant long-term immigration solutions based on their business activities, residency objectives and current UAE immigration policies.
Citizenship
UAE citizenship is not available through a standard naturalisation route open to all long-term residents. It is granted on a discretionary basis to individuals who have made an exceptional contribution to the UAE in fields including investment, science, medicine, culture and sport.
Candidates are typically put forward through government entities or relevant authorities rather than applying independently. The process is highly selective and assessed on a case-by-case basis.
For clients who believe they may meet the relevant criteria, Hudson McKenzie can advise on whether a formal approach is appropriate. Contact our team for a confidential discussion.
Additional Services
Hudson McKenzie advises individuals, investors and corporate clients on the full range of UAE immigration matters: employment visa applications, Golden Visa structuring, family sponsorship, business setup and long-term residency planning. Our team works across all UAE emirates and provides advice tailored to each client's personal and commercial circumstances.
Supporting legal services are also available, including notarisation, apostille, legalisation, document translations and general immigration consultations.
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The information provided on this page is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration rules and requirements are subject to change. Please contact Hudson McKenzie for advice tailored to your specific circumstances.
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