What this guide covers
This guide explains the main visa options available in the UAE, how they work, and when each one is typically used.
It focuses on the visas most relevant to individuals looking to live and work in the UAE, either as employees, business owners or investors.
Who this applies to
This is relevant if you are planning to move to the UAE, setting up a business and need a residence visa, or exploring longer-term options such as the golden visa.
The short answer
There are several visa routes, but most people fall into one of three categories.
- employment visa
- investor or partner visa
- golden visa
Each allows you to live and work in the UAE, but the requirements and flexibility differ.
Tourist visas
The most basic option is a tourist visa.
This allows you to stay in the UAE for a limited period, typically between 30 and 90 days depending on nationality and purpose.
It does not allow you to work in the UAE and is only suitable for short-term visits or initial trips before setting up a more permanent arrangement.
Employment visas
For most people, the employment visa is the main entry point.
This is both a work visa and a residence visa. It allows you to live and work in the UAE for up to two years.
The visa is issued through a company, so you must be employed by a licensed UAE entity.
To obtain one, you will typically need:
- a job offer from a UAE company
- qualifications or experience relevant to the role
- a company with the appropriate licence and visa allocation
Investor and partner visas
If you are setting up or investing in a company, the relevant route is an investor or partner visa.
This applies to shareholders in UAE companies. To qualify, you generally need to demonstrate a minimum level of investment, typically around AED 50,000 in paid-up share capital.
If that capital is not yet deposited into a UAE bank account, you may still be able to qualify by showing proof of funds in a personal account.
In practice, a sole owner is usually issued an investor visa, while a shareholder in a multi-owner company is issued a partner visa. Both are typically valid for two years and allow you to live and work in the UAE.
Golden visas
The golden visa is a longer-term option and is valid for 10 years.
It allows you to live and work in the UAE without the need for renewal every two years.
The most common eligibility routes include:
- real estate investment of AED 2 million with at least AED 1 million paid
- bank investment of AED 2 million held for at least two years
- a salaried role with a minimum salary of AED 30,000 and a consistent payment history
- specialised talent such as doctors, engineers, scientists, artists or athletes
Applications are reviewed by immigration authorities and are not automatically approved. Processing times can vary significantly depending on the category.
A key advantage is flexibility, as golden visa holders are not required to enter the UAE every 180 days to maintain residency.
Freelancer visas
Freelancer visas are often misunderstood.
They are not available through mainland setups and are only offered by certain free zones.
The most common route is through free zones linked to the Dubai Development Authority, such as Media City, Internet City and Design District.
You obtain a freelancer licence and then apply for a visa linked to that licence. These visas are typically issued for one year and are most suitable for individuals working in creative or independent professions.
Choosing the right visa
The right visa depends on how you intend to operate in the UAE.
If you are joining a company, the employment visa is usually appropriate. If you are setting up a business, an investor or partner visa is more suitable. If you meet the criteria and want long-term flexibility, the golden visa can be a strong option.
Summary
The UAE offers a range of visa options, but most people will fall into a small number of practical routes.
The employment visa remains the most common. Investor and partner visas are used for business owners, while the golden visa provides a longer-term alternative for those who qualify.
Understanding how each one works makes it much easier to choose the right structure from the outset.