Dubai Golden Visa via Business Setup: Requirements & Application Guide
Dubai Golden Visa via business setup grants 10-year renewable residency to entrepreneurs establishing qualifying UAE companies, bypassing standard 2–3 year visas.
This pathway rewards innovative startups and investors meeting strict revenue, incubator, or project value thresholds set by GDRFA and Ministry of Economy in 2026.
Eligibility Requirements for Entrepreneurs
Primary Criteria:
Outstanding Talent Project: Approval from accredited incubator (e.g., DTEC, in5) or MoE for tech/futuristic ventures valued at min AED 500,000.
SME Revenue Proof: Own/register UAE SME generating AED 1M+ annual revenue—audited financials required.
Project Sale History: Founded/sold startup(s) totaling AED 7M+ valuation, verified by authorities.
High-Income Business: Public investment license with AED 2M capital or tax payments exceeding AED 250,000/year.
Shareholders qualify if company meets thresholds. Health insurance mandatory for applicant/family.
Required Documents Checklist
Valid trade license, MOA, share certificates.
Auditor letter confirming project value/revenue.
Incubator approval letter or MoE endorsement.
Passport copies, photos, Emirates ID (if resident).
Proof of accommodation, clean criminal record.
6-month bank statements showing funds trail.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Establish Qualifying Business: Form mainland/free zone entity via ray.dubai.gov.ae (AED 25k–50k setup).
Secure Approval: Submit project to incubator/MoE—1–3 months processing.
Enter GDRFA Portal: Access icp.gov.ae or gdrfad.gov.ae; select "Golden Residency – Entrepreneurs."
Upload Docs & Pay: AED 2,800–4,000 fees; medical/security checks follow.
Biometrics & Approval: Visit center for fingerprints—visa stamped in 2–4 weeks.
Emirates ID: Collect post-approval (AED 370).
Category Comparison Table
Business Type Min Requirement Visa Length Approval Time
Incubator Startup AED 500k value 5–10 years 1–2 months
SME Revenue AED 1M/year 10 years 2–3 months
Sold Projects AED 7M total 10 years