1. Teachers and educators
Educators working in Dubai schools and universities can now apply for the Golden Visa, a category introduced in October 2024 by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). This long-term residency visa is granted to teachers who have made exceptional contributions to the emirate's private education sector, allowing them to obtain the Golden Visa. Educators working in early childhood centers (ECCs), schools, and higher education institutions (HEIs) may be eligible based on their academic achievements, contributions to educational innovation, and efforts to improve educational standards at their institutions. The Golden Visa offers renewable 10-year residency, allowing beneficiaries to live and work in Dubai, with the added benefit of being able to sponsor their immediate family members (spouse, child(ren), parents). Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria defined by the KHDA to obtain the Golden Visa. Ras Al Khaimah has also launched a Golden Visa program to recognize the contributions of private school educators and facilitate their visa applications. According to the Ras Al Khaimah Department of Knowledge (RAK DOK), the program is open to teachers, principals, heads of departments, and school directors. This initiative highlights the emirate's commitment to supporting educational excellence.2. Golden Visa for gaming professionals - gamers
Dubai has taken an important step to support its esports scene by introducing the “Dubai Gaming Visa” as part of the Dubai Programme for Gaming 2033 (DPG33). This 10-year Golden Visa in Dubai category is open to people working in the gaming industry and was launched by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense of the United Arab Emirates, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai. To apply, candidates must first obtain an accreditation certificate from Dubai Culture and meet the minimum age requirement of 25. This initiative aims to position Dubai as a global hub for video games and esports while facilitating visa applications for industry professionals. The Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) also supports gaming professionals and esports talent through its Golden Visa program, further strengthening the United Arab Emirates' commitment to this rapidly growing industry.3. Golden Visa for luxury yacht owners
Luxury yacht owners in Abu Dhabi can now qualify for a 10-year Golden Visa through the “Abu Dhabi Golden Quay” initiative, offering them an exclusive type of visa. This program, introduced by the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT Abu Dhabi) in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office and Yas Marina, aims to attract wealthy individuals to invest in the emirate. Owners of private yachts measuring 40 meters or more may be nominated for the Golden Visa. The initiative also includes key executives in the yachting sector, shareholders of yacht-building companies, major agents, service providers, and insurers, all of whom may benefit from a visa in Dubai. Family members of nominated individuals are also eligible for residency under this program.
In conclusion, beyond the real estate Golden Visa, which remains one of the most popular among expatriates, the United Arab Emirates and Dubai continue to demonstrate a commitment to diversifying and stimulating their economic sectors while attracting international talent. With the ambition of becoming a global hub in every field, Dubai is promoting strategic initiatives that enhance its appeal as a destination for obtaining a visa. Offering long-term residency options represents a genuine opportunity, not only for residents but also for the country, which can thereby stabilize its economy and continue its development.
For more information about the Golden Visa in Dubai, contact us to obtain a visa: support@merritt.group.
