The Ultimate Guide to UAE Golden Visa Expansion in 2025: Dubai & Abu Dhabi
Introduction
The UAE has always been a land of opportunities, attracting investors, professionals, and entrepreneurs from around the world. One of the most sought-after residency programs is the UAE Golden Visa, which offers long-term residency (5 or 10 years) to eligible individuals.
In 2025, the UAE has expanded the Golden Visa program, making it even more accessible to a wider range of applicants. Whether you’re an investor, a skilled professional, a student, or a retiree, there’s a Golden Visa category for you.
In this Golden Visa guide, we’ll cover:
- What is the UAE Golden Visa?
- Latest Expansions in 2025
- Eligibility Criteria for Each Category
- Step-by-Step Application Process
- Golden Visa Costs (Dubai & Abu Dhabi)
- Benefits of the Golden Visa
1. What is the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency permit (5 or 10 years) that allows foreigners to live, work, and study in the UAE without needing a local sponsor. It is renewable as long as the eligibility conditions are met.
Key Features:
✅ 10-year residency for investors, entrepreneurs, and exceptional talents
✅ 5-year residency for students, skilled professionals, and retirees
✅ Sponsorship for family members (spouse, children, and even parents in some cases)
✅ No need for a UAE employer or sponsor
✅ Multiple-entry visa with 6-month stay flexibility
2. UAE Golden Visa Expansion in 2025 – What’s New?
The UAE government has expanded the Golden Visa program in 2025 to attract more global talent and investment. Here are the major updates:
A. More Professions Eligible
Previously, only high-income professionals could apply. Now, the UAE has added more job categories, including:
- Digital & Tech Experts (AI, blockchain, cybersecurity)
- Healthcare Professionals (doctors, nurses, researchers)
- Educators & Scientists (university professors, researchers)
- Creative & Media Professionals (artists, content creators, journalists)
B. Easier Path for Students
- Top-performing students in UAE schools & universities can now get a 5-year Golden Visa.
- High school toppers (minimum 95% score) are eligible.
- University graduates from top global institutions can apply.
C. Expanded Investor Categories
- Real Estate Investors: Now, buying property worth AED 2M (instead of 5M) can qualify you for a Golden Visa.
- Entrepreneurs: Startups registered in the UAE with high growth potential can apply.
- Stock Market Investors: Those investing AED 2M+ in UAE stocks may qualify.
D. Retirees Can Now Apply
- Expats aged 55+ with AED 1M+ in savings or a monthly income of AED 20,000+ can get a 5-year retirement visa.
E. Faster Processing & Digital Applications
- The UAE has introduced online applications through the ICA (Federal Authority) and GDRFA (Dubai) portals.
- Processing time reduced to 30 days in most cases.
3. Who is Eligible for the UAE Golden Visa in 2025?
The Golden Visa has multiple categories. Let’s break them down:
A. Investors
- Real Estate Investors
- Minimum investment: AED 2M (can be one or multiple properties)
- Must be fully owned (not mortgaged)
- Business Investors
- Invest AED 2M+ in a UAE-based company
- Must have a valid business license
- Public Investors (Stocks & Funds)
- Invest AED 2M+ in UAE stocks or approved investment funds
B. Entrepreneurs & Startup Founders
- Must own a UAE-based startup with annual revenue of AED 500K+
- Or have received AED 500K+ in funding from a UAE-approved incubator
C. Skilled Professionals
- Must work in high-demand fields (doctors, engineers, IT specialists, etc.)
- Minimum salary: AED 30,000 per month (or AED 15,000 in some cases)
D. Exceptional Talents
- Scientists, researchers, artists, athletes
- Requires approval from a UAE government entity (e.g., Ministry of Culture, Dubai Sports Council)
E. Outstanding Students
- High school toppers (min. 95% score)
- University graduates from top 100 global universities
- PhD holders in key research fields
F. Retirees
- Age 55+ with:
- AED 1M+ in savings OR
- Monthly income of AED 20,000+
4. Step-by-Step Application Process (2025 Update)
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
- Visit the ICA (Federal) or GDRFA (Dubai) website to confirm your category.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Common Documents:
✔ Passport copy
✔ UAE residence visa (if already in UAE)
✔ Emirates ID (if applicable)
✔ Proof of eligibility (investment proof, salary certificate, degree, etc.)
Step 3: Submit Online Application
- For Federal (ICA): Apply via https://icp.gov.ae
- For Dubai (GDRFA): Apply via https://gdrfad.gov.ae
Step 4: Pay Fees
- Fees vary by category (see Section 5 for cost details).
Step 5: Medical Test & Biometrics
- Required for first-time applicants.
Step 6: Approval & Visa Issuance
- Processing time: 15-30 days
- Once approved, you’ll receive your Golden Visa Emirates ID.
5. UAE Golden Visa Cost in 2025 (Dubai & Abu Dhabi)
The total cost depends on:
✅ Visa type (5-year vs. 10-year)
✅ Processing fees (government charges)
✅ Medical test & Emirates ID fees
Breakdown of Costs:
| Fee Type | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | 2,800 – 3,800 |
| Issuance Fee | 2,800 – 3,800 |
| Medical Test | 500 – 1,000 |
| Emirates ID (5-year) | 1,000 |
| Emirates ID (10-year) | 1,500 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 7,100 – 10,100 AED |
Note: Fees may vary slightly between Dubai & Abu Dhabi.
6. Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa
✔ Long-term residency (5 or 10 years)
✔ Sponsor family members (spouse, children, parents)
✔ No need for a local employer
✔ Access to UAE banking, healthcare & education
✔ Travel freely in & out of UAE
✔ Pathway to UAE citizenship (in some cases)
Conclusion
The UAE Golden Visa 2025 expansion makes it easier than ever for investors, professionals, students, and retirees to secure long-term residency in Dubai & Abu Dhabi. With lower investment thresholds, faster processing, and more eligible categories, now is the best time to apply.
If you’re looking for stability, business opportunities, and a high-quality lifestyle, the Golden Visa is your gateway to the UAE.
Ready to apply? Check the official ICA or GDRFA websites and start your journey today!