Who is eligible?

The initiative targets owners and senior participants in the high-end yachting ecosystem, including:

• Superyacht owners, meaning private yacht owners whose vessel is 40 meters or longer, are the primary category highlighted in the announced programs. Ownership alone is not always sufficient; a qualifying connection to the UAE is ordinarily required.
• Maritime industry executives and stakeholders, including CEOs, major shareholders of yacht builders/operating companies, central yacht agents, and similar senior industry figures, may qualify.
• Yacht service providers, who are selected professionals active in yacht maintenance, brokerage, insurance, and key service provision, can be eligible where their role demonstrates a significant economic contribution to the UAE maritime sector.
• Family members, the Golden Visa typically permits the holder to sponsor immediate family members (spouse and children) under the same residency status.

How to apply?

Indeed, the UAE Golden Visa is a federal residency permit valid across all Emirates, but nomination and intake channels differ by emirate. In practice, the two principal operational channels relevant to yacht-sector applicants are:

A — Abu Dhabi: the Golden Quay nomination pathway

Abu Dhabi has introduced a targeted sector program, called “Golden Quay to Abu Dhabi” that explicitly includes superyacht owners and leading maritime professionals. The program is operated in partnership with Yas Marina and the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO).

Eligible individuals are nominated via Yas Marina (or another program partner). Yas Marina forwards nominations and supporting documents to ADIO for verification and endorsement. ADIO coordinates with the federal immigration authority to complete the Golden Visa issuance once the nomination is approved.

B — Dubai and federal (GDRFA / ICP) routes

Dubai processes Golden Visa applications through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs — Dubai (GDRFA) and also via the federal ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) smart services portal. Dubai’s maritime zones and free zones (for example, Dubai Maritime City, Dubai Harbor) may also facilitate nominations or provide documentary support for applications.

Applicants with qualifying UAE links (e.g, business presence, registered or moored vessels, or recognized sector contribution) may apply directly via GDRFA or the ICP portal. Dubai authorities will review applications and supporting evidence; sector nominations can be channeled through relevant maritime authorities or free zones where appropriate.

What documentation is required?

• Proof of yacht ownership (title deeds, bill of sale);
• Technical documentation confirming the yacht’s length and specifications (to evidence ≥ 40 m where applicable);
• Evidence that the yacht is registered, moored, or managed in the UAE (registry documentation, marina contracts, management agreements);
• Personal identity documents (valid passport) and business documentation (company registration, shareholder registers), where relevant;
• Family documentation (marriage certificate, children’s birth certificates) if family sponsorship is sought.

What does the Golden Visa provide?

Successful applicants under the yacht-linked pathways receive:

• A 10-year renewable UAE residence visa, valid across all Emirates.
• No requirement for a local sponsor or employer to hold the residence permit.
• The ability to sponsor immediate family members (spouse and children).
• Facilitation for longer-term planning, including access to UAE banking, eligibility to purchase property subject to local rules, and improved stability for business and personal planning in the UAE.

If you require assistance with eligibility assessment, documentation, or the full application process for the UAE Golden Visa for yacht owners, MEPLAW’s international team is ready to guide you through every step with precision and confidentiality.

Niloofar Foroozanfar

www.meplaw.net

L'articolo The UAE 2025 Golden Visa Initiative for Yacht Owners proviene da MEPLAW.NET International Law Firm.

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

www.meplaw.net

L'articolo Key Changes in the UAE Visa System in 2024 proviene da MEPLAW.NET International Law Firm.

Recently, in July 2023, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE) of the UAE introduced updated Emiratization rules that apply to small businesses operating within the country. Under these new regulations, private sector companies in the UAE with a workforce ranging from 20 to 49 employees are now obligated to employ at least one UAE national by the year 2024 and another one by the year 2025. It is worth noting that previously, based on the Ministerial Decision 279 of 2022, the Emiratization rules applied exclusively to companies with 50 or more employees.

The government has actively tried to increase the participation of Emirati citizens in the private sector as part of its Emiratization initiative. Subsequently, the main objective of these regulations is to provide Emirati graduates with opportunities for employment within startup ventures and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This initiative is anticipated to offer valuable learning experiences for Emirati graduates while enabling them to nurture and enhance their skills and talents. Through the implementation, it is anticipated that the Emirati employment rate will rise to 6 percent in 2024, 8 percent in 2025, and 10 percent in 2026.

Bear in mind that the companies located in free zones are exempt from these rules. Nonetheless, they are strongly encouraged to take part in the program voluntarily. In fact, the new requirement applies to a total of 14 distinct sectors including information and communications, real estate, financial and insurance activities, professional and technical activities, administrative and support services, arts and entertainment, education, mining and quarrying, transformative industries, healthcare and social work, construction, wholesale and retail, transportation and warehousing, hospitality and residency services.

Starting in January 2025, companies that fail to adhere to the 2024 Emiratization requirement will be subject to a fine of AED 96,000 (25,000 €). This penalty will then escalate to AED 108,000 (28,000 €) for companies that do not meet the Emiratization targets set for 2025, effective from January 2026. In addition, any effort to bypass the Emiratization requirements, such as reducing the headcount of employees (for instance, by transferring employees from one entity to another) or reclassifying skilled workers as unskilled, may result in penalties. These fines commence at AED 100,000 and escalate to AED 500,000 for a third violation.

In order to reach the objective, for businesses falling within the range of 20-49 employees, it is of utmost importance to promptly meet the Emiratization requirements by consulting with a legal professional in this matter.

Dott.ssa Niloofar Forrozanfar

Niloofar Foroozanfar

www.meplaw.net

L'articolo New Emiratization Rules for Companies Operating in the United Arab Emirates proviene da MEPLAW.NET International Law Firm.

One of the ways that property investors can invest in the UAE’s property market is direct investment. It involves the ownership of the physical property, either for owner-occupation (as an end-user) or as an investment (to be rented out). The ways for direct property investments are:

1- Purchasing a property

One of the most common ways of direct property investment is purchasing a property in the UAE. This can be done either through cash or through a mortgage. The criteria that should be considered in this regard are as follows:

• Location: The location of the property is one of the most important factors to consider when making a direct investment in the UAE. Some of the popular areas to invest in are Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, and Palm Jumeirah. It is important to research the area and understand the potential rental income and capital appreciation in the area.
• Budget: Determine your budget for the property and factor in additional expenses such as taxes, property maintenance, and management fees.
• Property type: Consider the type of property that you want to invest in. Whether it is a villa, apartment, or commercial property, each type has its own benefits and risks.
• Developer reputation: Do your research on the developer’s reputation and track record. Ensure that the developer has a good reputation and has delivered high-quality properties in the past.
• Financing options: If you are unable to pay for the property in cash, research and compare financing options available from banks in the UAE. Compare interest rates and repayment terms.
• Property management: Consider hiring a property management company to handle tenant placement, rent collection, and maintenance of the property. This can save time and effort and ensure that the property is well-maintained.
• Legal requirements: Ensure understanding of the legal requirements for purchasing a property in the UAE. For example, the laws and regulations governing real estate in Dubai are well-established. For instance, Real Estate Law No. 7 of 2006, also known as the Land Registration Law in the Emirate, outlines that UAE citizens and citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are permitted to buy real estate anywhere in Dubai. However, foreign nationals can only purchase properties in designated “freehold” areas through either freehold or leasehold ownership structures.

2- Off-plan property investments

Involve purchasing a property that is still under construction with the expectation of capital appreciation or rental income once the property is completed. This can be a good investment opportunity as prices may increase once the property is completed. when making a direct investment in off-plan property in the UAE, considering some criteria is highly crucial:

• Research the developer: Research the developer’s reputation and track record, including previous projects and delivery timelines. Choose a developer that has a good reputation and a history of delivering quality projects on time.
• Location: Properties in areas with high demand, such as popular tourist destinations or business districts, are likely to have a higher potential for appreciation.
• Payment plan: Developers usually offer flexible payment plans for off-plan properties in the UAE. Consider the payment schedule and ensure that it suits your financial situation.
• Completion date: The completion date is important to consider when investing in off-plan property. Ensure that the developer has a realistic timeline for completion and factor in any potential delays.
• Contract terms: Review the contract terms carefully, including the payment schedule, handover date, and any penalties for delays or cancellations.
• Risks: Understand the risks associated with investing in off-plan property, including delays in construction, changes in market conditions, and potential issues with the developer or the property itself.
• Legal requirements: Ensure that you understand the legal requirements for purchasing off-plan property in the UAE. This includes registering the property and paying taxes. Concerning the Law No. (7) of 2013, developers are required to register their projects with the Dubai Land Department and obtain all necessary permits and approvals before selling off-plan properties. The law also requires developers to deposit 20% of the project’s value with the Dubai Land Department to protect investors’ funds. Moreover, Law No. (4) of 2019 Concerning the
  Real Estate Regulatory Agency mandates that developers must disclose all necessary information to investors, including project details, timelines, payment plans, and any potential risks associated with the project.

3- Rental properties

Purchasing a property with the intention of renting it out is also a direct property investment. This can generate rental income and long-term capital appreciation. For investing in rental properties also the location, property type that is suitable for rental income, such as apartments or villas, rental rates by considering the competition and the demand for rental properties in a specific area, hiring a property management company which can be helpful in managing the property are substantially important.

In addition, ensure that you understand the legal requirements for renting out a property in the UAE. Based on the Dubai Tenancy Law No. 26 of 2007, landlords have to enter into a written rental contract with their tenants, which must include certain details such as the rent amount, payment schedule, and the duration of the lease. They can also request a security deposit from tenants, which must be refunded at the end of the lease term unless there are damages to the property or unpaid rent.

In conclusion, direct investment in the UAE real estate can be a lucrative opportunity for investors looking to diversify their portfolios and take advantage of the region’s growing economy and is a viable option for investors who have done their due diligence, understand the market, and are willing to take on some level of risk. Finally, it is important to note that the investing process in the UAE can be complex, and you may want to seek the advice of an expert lawyer to guide you through the process.

[1] “Sought-after property markets” typically refer to geographic locations where there is a high demand for real estate, and properties tend to command premium prices.

Niloofar Foroozanfar

www.meplaw.net

L'articolo Real Estate Market in the UAE proviene da MEPLAW.NET International Law Firm.