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Sponsored by a UAE employer; employer handles the application and medical/biometric requirements. The UAE labor market test is generally waived for skilled roles.
Long-term residency for investors (AED 2M+ in real estate or AED 10M in a business/fund), skilled professionals, scientists, and outstanding students. Self-sponsored with no need for a local employer.
Self-sponsored visa for skilled professionals and freelancers earning at least AED 360,000/year (approximately USD 98,000). Requires a freelance permit from a UAE free zone or a professional license.
For retirees aged 55+ who meet one of: AED 20,000/month income, AED 1M in savings, or AED 2M in UAE property. No employment allowed; family dependents can be sponsored.
The UAE offers multiple long-term residency options for expats, including employment visas (2-3 years), the 10-year Golden Visa for investors and skilled professionals, and the 5-year Green Visa for freelancers and skilled workers. The UAE does not offer permanent residency in the traditional sense, but long-term visas are renewable. The process is generally efficient and employer-driven for most expats.
Employment in the UAE requires a work permit issued through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), typically sponsored by the employer. The visa is tied to the employer under the kafala sponsorship system, though 2021 reforms allow easier job changes. Emiratisation quotas require companies above certain sizes to hire UAE nationals.
Workers earning above AED 4,000/month can sponsor spouses and children. The sponsor must provide a tenancy contract and meet salary thresholds. A Golden Visa holder can sponsor family regardless of salary level.
The UAE levies no personal income tax, making it one of the world's most tax-friendly jurisdictions. A 9% corporate tax was introduced in 2023 for businesses with profits over AED 375,000. VAT is 5%. There is no capital gains tax or inheritance tax. The UAE has tax treaties with 130+ countries.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi mandate that employers provide health insurance for their workers. Public hospitals are modern and affordable, but most expats prefer private facilities like Mediclinic or Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi. International health insurance is recommended for comprehensive coverage.
Opening a bank account requires a residency visa, Emirates ID, and salary letter. Major banks include Emirates NBD, ADCB, FAB, and HSBC. The process typically takes 1-2 weeks. Digital banking options are growing but still require residency documentation.
The UAE Golden Visa grants 10-year renewable residency to investors committing AED 2M+ in real estate or a UAE company, as well as exceptional talent in science, arts, and sports. The Green Visa (5 years) targets skilled employees and freelancers. Both require no local sponsor and allow self-sponsorship.
| Program | Min. Investment | Residency | Citizenship |
|---|---|---|---|
| UAE Golden Visa | $545k+ | ✓ Yes | No |