The UAE, particularly Dubai, is renowned for its contemporary tourist destinations, coupled with numerous cultural attractions and activities. In addition, it is recognized as one of the world’s most attractive investment hubs. Therefore, the UAE government consistently revises visa policies to enhance tourism, streamline the experience for foreign visitors, and attract talented students, employees, investors, and other categories of individuals. This strategy aims to contribute to the growth of the economy and various sectors within the country. In this Article, different categories of the UAE visa with their changes in 2024 are assessed.

Visit Visa

The UAE in 2024, has introduced new rules for the extension of the visit visas. Previously, travelers with visit visas were unable to renew their visas within the country. However, under the new regulations, visitors can extend their visit visas for either 30 or 60 days, with an additional extension of 30 days. The maximum allowable stay in the UAE within a year is 120 days, and extensions beyond this period are not still permitted. Additionally, Visa on Arrival for the UAE can be extended without leaving the UAE. Those with 90-day visit visas have the option to extend their stay by an additional 90 days. The fee for a UAE visit visa extension is approximately AED 1100.

Green Visa

The introduction of the UAE Green Visa in 2022 marks a notable initiative by the government to attract and keep exceptional talented individuals. This type of visa introduces a 5-year residency option, a substantial enhancement compared to the usual 2-3 year visas, and makes the procedure easier to bring family members to the UAE. This visa is available for three main groups including skilled workers, freelancers, and self-employed individuals. In 2024, to get a green visa, there is no need for sponsorship from an employer or a family member. The holders are able to request a resident permit for their first-degree relatives. In addition, it is possible to renew this type of visa for an additional five years.

Golden Visa

The Golden Visa in the UAE is an extended-term residency permit that allows overseas buyers, entrepreneurs, and talented individuals to reside, work, or study in the UAE, accompanied by exclusive advantages in 2024. Indeed, this type of visa stands out from other types as it permits holders to stay in the UAE for up to 10 years without the need for a sponsor. Additionally, it grants access to various benefits such as medical insurance, educational facilities, banking services, etc. In 2024, The Golden Visa extends its eligibility to include a broader range of experts and skilled individuals. Entrepreneurs with innovative initiatives, skilled professionals earning high monthly incomes, and students with exceptional academic records are all subject to evaluation.

According to the UAE Ministry of Education, graduates from the top 100 global colleges are now eligible to obtain the Golden Visa of the UAE. The visa application process is much more been simplified. Moreover, Individuals applying for the visa can request a 60-day extension if the visa remains unused within the specific timeframe.

Holders of the Golden Visa have the benefit of sponsoring relatives and domestic workers, as well as enjoying discounts on various public services. In Abu Dhabi, partnerships with Imkan Properties, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, and First Abu Dhabi Bank offer reduced rates on mortgages and savings accounts for Golden Visa holders.  

Remote working Visa/Digital Nomad Visa

This is a new visa type introduced in 2024, which is the residence visa for foreigners who are employed outside the UAE, entrepreneurs, and freelancers. It allows them to legally reside in the UAE, enjoying a host of benefits, including telecommunications, utilities, medical, and schooling facilities, with the extra advantage of zero income tax. This is the most cost-effective option as it allows persons to stay in their home country while benefiting from UAE banking facilities, among other advantages. The type of visa is open to all nationalities and has a duration of one year which is renewable.

Therefore, the modifications to the UAE’s visa system have had a positive impact on the country, resulting in increased foreign investment, enhanced talent attraction, and a more diverse and inclusive workforce. This is evident in the growing presence of foreigners from various backgrounds and expertise, contributing to the overall development and prosperity of the UAE.

Niloofar Foroozanfar