Below is a structured overview of the current eligibility framework and key practical considerations.

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What Is the UAE Golden Visa?

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residence permit granted for either five or ten years, renewable, and issued without the requirement for a local sponsor.

It allows holders to:

• Reside, work and study in the UAE
• Sponsor eligible family members, including spouse and children
• Remain outside the UAE for extended periods without automatic visa cancellation

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While the programme is federal in structure, applications are processed through the relevant Emirate authority, including Dubai, where it is often referred to as the “Dubai Golden Visa”.

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Updated Real Estate Investment Criteria (2026)

The real estate category remains one of the most frequently used routes.

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Minimum Investment Threshold: Applicants must demonstrate property investment of AED 2 million or more.

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Key clarifications:

• The property may be fully paid or mortgaged.
• Where mortgaged, bank confirmation and valuation documentation are required.
• Off-plan properties may be eligible, subject to developer approval and payment milestones.
• Joint ownership arrangements must clearly evidence the applicant’s proportional share meeting the threshold.

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In practice, valuation evidence and title deed documentation are being scrutinised more closely than in previous years.

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Skilled Professionals: Salary & Qualification Thresholds

The skilled professional category continues to evolve in line with UAE labour policy and strategic sector priorities. Current eligibility typically requires:

• A minimum salary threshold (as defined by category and profession)
• A recognised academic qualification
• Employment in a designated strategic or specialised sector
• Valid employment contract and labour classification

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Applicants should note that salary calculations may require evidence of fixed remuneration rather than variable or commission-based income. MOHRE classification and professional accreditation documentation may also be requested depending on sector.

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Entrepreneur & Founder Category

Entrepreneurs seeking Golden Visa status must demonstrate ownership or active participation in a UAE-registered business. Updated interpretation emphasises:

• Innovative or high-growth business activity
• Operational presence within the UAE
• Clear shareholding structure
• Evidence of commercial sustainability

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In some cases, endorsement or approval from relevant authorities may be required depending on the Emirate and activity type. Freezone and mainland structures are both potentially eligible, but documentation standards differ.

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Outstanding Students & Graduates

The student category continues to reward academic distinction. Eligibility may include:

• High GPA thresholds
• Graduation from accredited institutions
• Recognition under UAE educational frameworks

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Documentation standards for academic transcripts and attestation remain important, particularly for overseas graduates.

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Key Documentation Requirements

While documents vary by category, the standard procedural requirements typically include:

• Valid passport copy
• Entry visa (if applying from outside the UAE)
• Medical fitness test
• Emirates ID registration
• Category-specific supporting evidence

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Applicants should also expect additional documentation requests where financial, corporate or qualification evidence requires clarification.

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Practical Considerations for 2026 Applicants

Although the Golden Visa programme offers long-term security, application review standards have become increasingly structured. Common areas requiring careful preparation include:

• Financial traceability of investment funds
• Property valuation discrepancies
• Salary threshold miscalculations
• Incomplete corporate documentation for founders
• Accreditation gaps for regulated professions

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Early legal review can help mitigate administrative delays and evidentiary challenges.

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Strategic Importance of the Golden Visa

For investors and founders, the Golden Visa provides business continuity and residency stability independent of employment sponsorship. For skilled professionals, it offers long-term security and flexibility within the UAE’s evolving economic landscape. As the UAE continues to position itself as a global business and talent hub, structured applications and regulatory alignment remain critical.

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For individuals seeking structured eligibility assessment and full application management, professional legal advisory support may assist in ensuring compliance with the current framework. Learn more about our UAE Golden Visa immigration lawyers and structured advisory services. For tailored compliance support, contact gcc@hudsonmckenzie.com.

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Contact and Disclaimer

Should you have any questions regarding the above information, or require assistance with your immigration or global mobility matters, please don’t hesitate to contact our legal team at Hudson McKenzie. You can reach us by telephone at +971 (0) 54 249 4303.

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For office locations, please visit our Our Offices page.

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The information provided in this blog is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice.

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