UAE Expands Golden Visa Services, Offering Enhanced Consular Support and Broadened Eligibility

The United Arab Emirates has announced a significant expansion of its Golden Visa program, introducing a suite of enhanced consular services for holders residing abroad and broadening the eligibility criteria to encompass new professional and humanitarian categories. This strategic move, a joint initiative by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), was unveiled at GITEX Global 2025 in Dubai on October 14.

Enhanced Consular Support for Golden Visa Holders

The newly introduced consular services extend benefits previously exclusive to Emirati citizens to Golden Visa holders and their registered dependents. This groundbreaking initiative aims to provide comprehensive support and peace of mind for long-term residents of the UAE, particularly during international travel or crises. Key services include:

• Electronic Return Document: In cases of lost or damaged passports abroad, Golden Visa holders can now obtain an electronic return document, valid for one entry into the UAE within seven days, facilitating their safe return.
• 24/7 Emergency Hotline: A dedicated 24-hour hotline (+971 2 493 1133) has been established to provide immediate assistance and support for urgent consular matters.
• Crisis Response and Evacuation: Golden Visa holders will now be included in national evacuation and emergency plans during crises or natural disasters in foreign countries, with coordination through UAE missions abroad.
• Repatriation Services: The program now covers the repatriation of mortal remains of Golden Visa holders who pass away abroad, streamlining procedures and offering support to bereaved families.

Officials have described this expansion as a 'qualitative leap' in resident support, reinforcing the UAE's commitment to its long-term residents.

Broadened Eligibility Criteria Attract Diverse Talent

Beyond consular support, the UAE has also significantly expanded the eligibility for its Golden Visa, aiming to attract a more diverse pool of skilled professionals, investors, and individuals contributing to humanitarian efforts. Recent updates in 2024 and 2025 have introduced several new categories and flexible pathways:

• Healthcare Workers: Nurses with over 15 years of service at Dubai Health Authority are now eligible for the 10-year visa.
• Educators: Private education professionals in Dubai, including teachers at early childhood centers, schools, and universities, can qualify based on academic excellence.
• Digital Creators: Filmmakers, content creators, and social media influencers can obtain long-term residency through the UAE's creative residency initiative.
• E-Sports Experts: Applicants aged 25 and above who receive accreditation from Dubai Culture are now eligible.
• Waqf Donors: A new category for 'financial supporters of humanitarian work' allows donors to Waqf (Islamic charitable endowments) to obtain the Golden Visa, following an agreement between GDRFA Dubai and the Endowments and Minors Affairs Foundation (Awqaf Dubai), announced on October 18, 2025.

Additionally, the program offers more flexible family sponsorship rules, allowing Golden Visa holders to sponsor their spouse and children of any age, as well as an unlimited number of domestic helpers. Investment routes also remain robust, with options for property investment of Dh2 million or more, including off-plan and mortgaged properties with a 50% down payment.

Strategic Vision for Long-Term Residency

The Golden Visa, initially launched in 2019, grants long-term residency for five or ten years, renewable, without the need for a sponsor. These latest enhancements underscore the UAE's strategic vision to solidify its position as a global hub for talent, innovation, and investment. By providing unparalleled support and expanding access, the UAE aims to foster a stable and attractive environment for individuals and families seeking long-term opportunities and a high quality of life within the Emirates.