The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced significant changes to its immigration policies, reflecting its commitment to attracting top talent and ensuring compliance with residency regulations.

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Golden visa expansion for the yachting industry

Abu Dhabi has extended its Golden visa program to include key players in the yachting sector, offering a 10-year residence permit to eligible individuals. This includes:

• Private yacht owners with vessels measuring 40 meters or more.
• CEOs, major shareholders, and executives of yacht-building companies.
• Central yacht agents, service providers, and yacht insurance providers.

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Golden visa holders can also sponsor family members, granting them dependent visas with durations matching the principal visa holder’s permit. This move highlights the UAE’s efforts to attract high-net-worth individuals and encourage growth in niche industries like luxury yachting.

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Amnesty program and penalties for irregular residency

The UAE’s amnesty program, which allowed foreign nationals with irregular residency status to regularise their stay or leave the country without penalties, concluded on 31st December 2024.

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Key takeaways include:

1. Grace periods and free exit permits:
   
   • Foreign nationals with expired residence permits were granted a two-month grace period starting 1st September 2024, to address their status.
   • Individuals opting to leave during this window could secure a free exit permit, waiving fines for overstaying, provided they departed within 14 days of the permit’s issuance.
2. Consequences post-amnesty:
   
   • After the grace period ended, daily fines of AED 50 were reinstated for those still in irregular status.
   • Employers hiring individuals without valid residency face fines of up to AED 1 million and potential legal consequences.
3. No travel bans for exits:
   
   • Those who left the UAE during the amnesty period avoided travel bans and can re-enter the country in the future without restrictions.

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Should you have any queries regarding the above information or if you require assistance with your corporate, employment or immigration matter, please get in touch with a legal professional at Hudson McKenzie via email at londoninfo@hudsonmckenzie.com or by telephone +44(0) 20 3318 5794.

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The information provided does not amount to legal advice.