UAE Residency and Visa Options

Andy Wood • November 14, 2024

UAE Residency and Visa Options - Introduction

A bridge leading to a city with a lot of tall buildings.
UAE residency options provide individuals with opportunities to work, study and live in its various emirates. 

The paths for obtaining residency visas can be tailored specifically to an individual's needs while reflecting the country's desire to draw talent, investments and expertise to its shores. 

Mosaic Chambers can assist with an overview of available routes so you can make an informed decision when considering residency in Dubai or any other emirate.

Pathways for UAE Residency

#1 Real Estate

Real estate investors seeking to participate in the UAE's vibrant real estate market can get their residency permits by making substantial purchases of real estate. 

This option offers great potential to investors looking for both market exposure and residency security at once; professional advice should always be sought as legal requirements can differ between emirates.

If you would like to explore residency by means of real estate investment, then Mosaic Chambers can assist with this.

#2 Establishing a Business

The United Arab Emirates is an ideal environment for international business, actively encouraging entrepreneurs.

Foreign nationals establishing free zones or businesses here can take advantage of its favourable economic climate by gaining residency. 

If you would like to explore residency by establishing a business in the UAE, then Mosaic Chambers can assist.. 

#3 Work at an UAE Company 

Professionals can secure residency by signing employment contracts with UAE registered companies. 

This is an ideal method for those possessing particular expertise or skillsets and requiring employer sponsorship for residency in the UAE.

If you would like to explore residency in the UAE through your employment, then Mosaic Chambers can assist with this process

#4 Retirement 

Retirees who meet certain financial criteria may qualify for residency in the UAE under its retirement visa program.

This facility which offers various facilities and services tailored specifically towards retirees.

If you would like to consider a UAE retirement visa, then Mosaic Chambers can assist with this process

#5 Education

Students accepted into UAE universities can apply for a student visa that allows them to study and live in the UAE. 

If you would like to consider residency in the UAE through education, then Mosaic Chambers can assist.

#6 Freelancers 

Visas that recognise flexible working arrangements are increasing. ly popular. 

The UAE provides freelance visas to professionals in media, technology and education fields. 

This visa enables independent freelancers access to its professional ecosystem without needing a traditional employer as their client.

If you would like to consider residency as a freelancer, then Mosaic Chambers can assist with this process.

#7 Long-term 

Long term visas may be made available to individuals possessing special skills in arts, science and technology. 

This category, commonly referred to as the "Talent Visa," seeks to attract high-calibre professionals that will contribute positively to UAE's development.

Again, Mosaic Chambers can assist with this process.

#8 Family 

It is also possible to sponsor immediate relatives of UAE residents and citizens.
This provides immediate family members with the ability to remain together as one family unit in the UAE. 

Residency sponsorship covers spouses, children and sometimes parents. 

If you would like to explore sponsorship of family members, then Mosaic Chambers can assist.

UAE Residency and Visa Options - Conclusion

As is true of most processes, acquiring an UAE residency visa requires careful management. 

Each path comes with specific legal and time constraints as well as potential financial requirements.

Final thoughts

If you have any queries on this guide, or would like to discuss your position with one of our advisers, then please get in touch.



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