UAE Golden Visa (Long-Term Residency)

UAE Golden Visa (Long-Term Residency)

The UAE Golden Visa programme provides eligible foreign nationals with long-term residency in the United Arab Emirates without the requirement for a local sponsor. Often referred to as the “Dubai Golden Visa” when issued through Dubai’s authorities, the programme is designed to attract investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals and individuals of exceptional talent to the UAE.

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For high-net-worth individuals, founders and senior executives, the Golden Visa offers a structured pathway to long-term presence in the region, aligned with the UAE’s economic development objectives and global investment strategy. For comprehensive eligibility assessment and structured application support, see our UAE Golden Visa immigration lawyers page.

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UAE Golden Visa applications require careful regulatory structuring and evidentiary preparation. Early legal review can significantly reduce delays, documentation risks and potential refusal.

Hudson McKenzie advises private clients, entrepreneurs and corporate stakeholders on the full UAE Golden Visa application process, from eligibility assessment to submission and post-approval compliance.

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Categories of UAE Golden Visa

1. Investors

  • Significant public investment or business investment in the UAE
  • Capital thresholds subject to regulatory requirements
  • Long-term residence aligned with commercial interests

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2. Entrepreneurs

  • Founders of innovative or scalable ventures
  • Government-accredited or approved business activities
  • Strategic alignment with UAE growth sectors

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3. Real Estate Investors

  • Property ownership meeting minimum valuation thresholds
  • Structured ownership documentation
  • Compliance with land department regulations

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4. Skilled Professionals

  • Senior executives and specialised professionals
  • Minimum salary and qualification criteria
  • Accreditation and professional licensing requirements

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5. Individuals of Exceptional Talent

  • Recognised expertise in science, culture, technology, medicine or other priority sectors
  • Nomination or endorsement pathways (where applicable)

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Selecting the appropriate category requires careful review of financial, regulatory and documentary criteria. Applicants considering this route should seek structured legal review through our UAE Golden Visa advisory services. Applications may be submitted through the relevant Emirate authority, including Dubai, where the programme is often referred to as the Dubai Golden Visa.

Here's how:

Key Benefits
Eligibility Requirements
Application Process

Common Reasons UAE Golden Visa Applications Are Delayed or Refused

  • Inadequate financial documentation
  • Incorrect property valuation evidence
  • Non-compliant shareholding structures
  • Insufficient professional accreditation
  • Failure to meet salary thresholds
  • Incomplete background disclosures

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Strategic & Commercial Considerations

For investors and entrepreneurs, Golden Visa applications frequently form part of a broader regional strategy. Considerations may include:

  • Company formation or expansion within the UAE
  • Real estate acquisition structuring
  • Corporate governance and shareholding implications
  • Tax residency planning
  • Alignment with long-term Gulf market expansion

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Our advisory team works alongside corporate and compliance specialists to ensure residency status is aligned with wider commercial objectives.

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Why Hudson McKenzie

Hudson McKenzie provides end-to-end immigration law advisory for individuals and businesses seeking long-term presence in the UAE. Our approach includes:

  • Comprehensive eligibility assessment
  • Structured document review and submission management
  • In-depth understanding of UAE immigration and regulatory frameworks
  • Confidential handling of private client matters
  • Coordination with corporate expansion and investment strategies
  • Ongoing advisory support post-approval

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We focus on accuracy, compliance integrity and structured application management, ensuring that submissions are presented with clarity and strategic foresight.

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Speak to a UAE Golden Visa Immigration Lawyer

If you are considering long-term residency in the UAE, our team can provide a private eligibility assessment and outline the most suitable pathway for your objectives. Please get in touch with us at HudsonVIP@hudsonmckenzie.com to know more about this programme.

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Premium residency applications require careful structuring and regulatory planning. Early strategic advice can significantly reduce delays and compliance risks. Book a Private UAE Golden Visa Consultation

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"The Hudson McKenzie team can offer bespoke training to your HR staff to ensure the organisation remains compliant with their duties as a sponsor licence holder."
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