The United Arab Emirates has taken another major step toward attracting top international talent by expanding its prestigious Golden Visa program to include seven additional professional categories. This initiative allows eligible individuals to reside in the UAE for 10 years without the need for a sponsor or employer, reflecting the nation’s forward-thinking approach to economic and societal development.
New Professions Now Eligible for Long-Term Residency
The new additions to the Golden Visa scheme are part of the country’s continued efforts to reward excellence and empower professionals from various high-impact sectors. Here’s a breakdown of the newly qualified categories:
Educators in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah
Educators in private institutions across Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah can now apply for a 10-year residency. The initiative honors teachers who have shown exceptional performance in enhancing educational quality. Applicants must demonstrate at least three years of experience in the UAE and hold an advanced academic degree.
Veteran Nurses Honored with Residency
In a move announced during International Nurses Day (May 12), Dubai extended the Golden Visa to nurses who have dedicated over 15 years to the Dubai Health system. This recognition underscores the crucial role of frontline health workers in building a resilient healthcare infrastructure.
Yacht Owners
Under Abu Dhabi’s Golden Quay initiative, private yacht owners (with vessels 40 meters or longer), as well as executives and stakeholders in the marine sector, can now secure long-term residency. The initiative aims to stimulate investment in the capital’s growing maritime economy.
Gaming Industry Professionals and eSports Talents Welcomed
Dubai is making waves in the global gaming arena by offering 10-year self-sponsored visas to professionals in the eSports industry. Eligible applicants must be at least 25 years old and show proven experience as game developers, streamers, competitive players, or creators in the gaming sector.
Long-Serving Religious Leaders Recognized
As part of the government’s efforts to value spiritual leadership, long-serving imams, muftis, muezzins, and researchers with over 20 years of service in Dubai are now eligible for the Golden Visa. The announcement was made in April 2024 ahead of Eid celebrations by Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Digital Creators and Influencers Gain Access
With the launch of Creators HQ, Dubai is now offering 10-year visas to social media influencers, podcasters, visual artists, and other digital creatives. The program is designed to help creatives scale globally and attract associated industries such as media, advertising, and entertainment to the emirate.
Environmentalists Granted the ‘Blue Visa’
Introduced in early 2025, the Blue Visa is a 10-year residency permit awarded to environmental champions. This includes global award-winning researchers, sustainability experts, NGO members, and activists who have made a significant environmental impact both locally and internationally.
What the Golden Visa Offers
Golden Visa holders enjoy numerous benefits, including:
- No need for a local sponsor or employer
- Extended stay abroad without losing visa validity
- Ability to sponsor family members and domestic workers
- Freedom to pursue self-employment and entrepreneurship
These incentives make the UAE an attractive hub for professionals, entrepreneurs, and creatives alike.
The UAE’s broadened Golden Visa program signals its commitment to rewarding excellence, diversifying its knowledge economy, and becoming a magnet for global talent. Future updates may introduce even more categories as the nation continues to align its residency policies with global competitiveness and human development goals.
