As the UAE continues to attract global talent and investment, two main Golden Visa pathways are emerging for long-term residency: the nomination-based Golden Visa and the real estate-linked visa. Both grant a 10-year residency, but differ significantly in terms of eligibility, financial requirements, and benefits.
What is the Nomination-Based UAE Golden Visa?
Launched as a new alternative to investment-heavy options, the nomination-based Golden Visa allows qualifying individuals to obtain a 10-year residency permit for a one-time fee of AED 100,000 (approx. ₹23.3 lakh), without the need to invest in property or start a business.
This visa is aimed at professionals, entrepreneurs, creatives, scientists, influencers, and other individuals with notable achievements or potential contributions to sectors like medicine, science, technology, business, trade, and the arts.
Key Features:
- No investment in real estate required
- No need to incorporate a company or seek local sponsorship
- Eligible applicants can sponsor their spouse, children, parents, and domestic staff
- Accessible remotely—no need to visit the UAE during application
- Includes benefits like:
- Access to UAE government services (e.g. healthcare, education)
- Premium health insurance
- Driving license exemption from mandatory courses
- Multiple-entry travel and simplified family sponsorship
Who is Eligible for the Nomination-Based Visa?
Applicants must show a noteworthy profile in their field and contribute meaningfully to the UAE’s development. Eligibility is based on:
- Achievements or recognition in relevant sectors
- A strong personal and professional background
- Clean criminal and financial record
- Pre-approval from the applicant’s home country
Documents Required:
- Detailed personal/professional profile
- Passport copy
- Bank statements (last 6 months)
- Academic qualification(s)
- Address proof
- Police clearance certificate
Applications are processed via Rayad Group and VFS ETM Services, with support centres now open in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, and Pune.
Real Estate-Linked UAE Golden Visa: What You Need to Know
The more traditional route to a 10-year UAE residency is via real estate investment. To qualify:
Investment Requirements:
- Purchase property worth AED 2 million or more
- Or, buy off-plan property (AED 2 million minimum) from approved developers
- Financing via selected UAE banks is allowed for some properties
This visa is renewable, but becomes invalid if the property is sold or divided.
Fees Involved:
- Government fees: AED 2,800–5,000
- Additional costs for medical tests, family sponsorship, biometrics, and legal/advisory services
Comparison at a Glance
| Feature | Nomination-Based Golden Visa | Real Estate-Linked Golden Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Investment | AED 100,000 (fee only) | AED 2 million (property value) |
| Residency Duration | 10 years (non-renewable) | 10 years (renewable) |
| Tied to Asset | No | Yes (property must be retained) |
| Sponsorship Required | No | No |
| Application Location | Can apply from outside the UAE | Must typically visit UAE |
| Target Group | Recognised professionals and talents | Investors and property buyers |
| Includes Family Sponsorship | Yes | Yes |
Important Considerations
With no personal income tax, high living standards, and strategic global access, the UAE remains one of the most attractive destinations for global professionals and investors alike
Both visas are residency permits, not a pathway to UAE citizenship
UAE citizenship is rarely granted, only to individuals with extraordinary contributions in key fields
