UAE Residency Visas - FAQs

Andy Wood • November 19, 2024
A row of palm trees against a blue sky

Who may apply for an UAE residence visa?

Each residency option has specific eligibility criteria that most qualifying individuals meet.

• Investing in Real Estate or Businesses
• Establishing a New Company For Entrepreneurs
• Sponsored Employees by UAE-Based Companies
• Talent in fields like technology, medicine and the arts abound at UAE universities.
• Remote workers and freelancers in certain professions as well as retirees meeting certain criteria may qualify.

Mosaic Chambers can assist your family members who are UAE nationals or residents with selecting the appropriate visa route that is tailored to meet their goals and profiles.

What types of UAE residency visas are there?

UAE provides its residents with various types of visas to suit their individual needs.

• An investor visa is intended for those investing in businesses or real estate.
• Employment visa - Professionals working in the UAE typically need an employment visa sponsored by their employer in order to work there legally and securely. Freelance visa - Independent professionals employed in fields like media, technology or education may qualify for this type of visa.
• Talent visa - Individuals with extraordinary talents in arts, sciences or sports.
• Student Visa: Issued to UAE-based universities or students pursuing postgraduate programs.
• Retirement Visa -- Open to retirees who meet certain financial criteria.
• Family Visa -- Residents may sponsor immediate family members for permanent residency status.

How do I acquire a UAE residence visa through real estate investment?

Real estate investment is an increasingly popular way of gaining residency in the UAE. 

Investments must reach a certain minimum threshold to be eligible, which typically ranges between AED 750,000 and 1 million depending on which emirate the investment falls in. 

Investors can even sponsor family members using this form of visa.

How does an entrepreneur apply for a UAE residency Visa?

Establishing a business in the UAE can help entrepreneurs obtain residency visas. 

There are two options for doing this; free zones provide ownership rights to foreigners while mainland companies gain access to local markets.

How do I acquire an employment-based UAE residency Visa?

Professionals working for UAE registered employers may qualify to apply for employment-based residence visas sponsored by their companies, which also provides initial application and renewal support for these visas. 

Their work permit and residence permit will both depend on their employment status.

How do I acquire a UAE residency visa as a specialist talent?

UAE provides long-term residency visas to professionals with unique skills. 

This visa can be issued to professionals working in healthcare, science and engineering, the arts or other related areas. 

A talent visa provides professionals with an opportunity to contribute towards UAE's innovation and growth.

How do I apply for an UAE residency visa as a student?

Student's from outside of UAE accepted to an institution can apply for and be sponsored for an international student visa, which can be renewed each year until completion of study.

How do freelancers or remote workers apply for an UAE resident Visa?

UAE authorities recently introduced a visa specifically tailored for freelancers working in media, education and technology industries. 

This permit allows individuals to work remotely or independently from any location within UAE borders.

How do retirees acquire an UAE residence visa?

Retirees who wish to spend their golden years in UAE may qualify for a retirement visa by meeting certain financial criteria such as having at least an annual income or significant savings. 

Once approved, senior citizens living here can enjoy access to healthcare, safety, and an excellent quality of life.

How can family members apply for an UAE residence Visa?

Residents in the UAE can sponsor immediate family members such as spouses, children and in some cases parents. 

To qualify as the primary sponsor of his or her relatives in need of sponsorship, the primary sponsor must meet a certain income threshold while also providing evidence of their relationship.

Entry permits Vs. residence Visas: What's the difference?

A limited entry permit grants individuals entry to the UAE for business or tourism purposes; while a residence visa allows a longer-term stay. 

When planning your move to the UAE, it is important to understand both types of permits as it could potentially impact how quickly an ID card can be issued to you. Learn How to Get an Emirates ID

Emirates IDs are mandatory identification cards required of all UAE residents and provide access to government, banking and healthcare services. 

Residents obtain this ID through biometric verification as part of the visa application process.

What are the re-entry rules for residence visa holders in UAE?

UAE residents traveling outside of their residence country should be aware that special re-entry regulations exist in order to maintain residency status, since extended absences could compromise its validity and impact its validity as an entry visa.

UAE residency Visas – FAQs - Conclusion

At Mosaic Chambers, we offer expert assistance with each pathway to UAE residency that best meets the individual's circumstances. 

No matter if it's for an entrepreneur, employee, retiree or family member; our team is there every step of the way ensuring a smooth transition into life in UAE. 

Final thoughts

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


Contact Us Call Us
July 31, 2025
Dubai Courts has made a groundbreaking move by opening its first international hub in London, creating an official route for UK-based clients to access Dubai legal services without boarding a plane. Backed by Dubai Chambers and managed by Al Burj Holding, the launch of Dubai Hub London marks a bold step in Dubai’s global legal and commercial expansion. The timing couldn’t be better: with Dubai topping global charts for foreign direct investment, the emirate is clearly serious about its international offering. Why this matters This isn’t just a pop-up office, it’s a statement of intent. For UK investors, law firms, and businesses with interests in the UAE, the benefits are immediate: Direct access to Dubai legal services from central London Faster processing of contracts, cases, and licences Removes the friction of cross-border legal support Strengthens UK–UAE investment and legal ties What the Dubai Hub London offers If you’re advising clients who operate in or are entering the Dubai market, here’s what’s now available without leaving the UK: Legal Services (Dubai Courts) Document certification, notarisation, and signature verification Wills and contracts for non-Muslims Remote court case registration and hearing participation Legal translation and attestation services Business & Property Services Dubai property valuation and document amendments via the Dubai Land Department Trade licence registration, renewals and amendments through the Department of Economy & Tourism Residency, visa and ID support for investors and entrepreneurs via the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs What’s behind this move? The hub is part of Dubai’s wider D33 economic agenda, aimed at attracting foreign capital and simplifying access for global investors. As Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, put it: “This is a strategic move to make Dubai more accessible to international investors and position the city as the world’s most dynamic business hub.” Benefits at a glance One-stop access to Dubai legal, commercial, and immigration services Increases confidence for UK-based businesses engaging with the UAE Reduces delay and red tape for those managing Dubai-related legal matters Opens up new routes for foreign investment in Dubai from London Forges a more connected, functional UK–UAE legal and economic relationship How can we help? Mosaic Chambers Group offers strategic, end-to-end support for clients using Dubai Hub London. We help interpret complex UAE legal procedures, prepare and submit documentation, and represent you from start to finish and beyond. Whether you're registering a business, handling property matters, relocating or trying to understand cross-border compliance, we ensure everything is handled accurately, efficiently, and in line with both UK and Dubai requirements. Our team works closely with Dubai-based professionals to deliver a joined-up, seamless experience, saving you time, reducing risk, and offering peace of mind.
London Bridge over a body of water with a castle in the background.
July 29, 2025
From April 2026, Business Property Relief (BPR) and Agricultural Property Relief (APR) will be capped at £1 million per individual. Learn what’s changing, how trusts are affected, and what action to take now to minimise inheritance tax.
More Posts