How Many Golden Visas Are Issued in the UAE​: Statistics and Application

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency program that allows individuals to live, work, and study in the UAE for up to 10 years. It was first launched in 2019 to attract long-term investors, skilled professionals, and outstanding students. 

Initially, the Golden Visa in the UAE focused on investors, doctors, scientists, and top-performing students. However, over the years, it has expanded to include entrepreneurs, creative professionals, nurses, teachers, and content creators.

The program has gained global attention for its stability, family sponsorship benefits, and opportunities to grow businesses in a thriving economy. In this blog, we will explore how many Golden Visas have been issued in the UAE so far, highlight the top nationalities benefiting from the program, and guide you through how to apply for a Dubai Golden Visa effectively.

The UAE Golden Visa program was introduced to attract long-term investors, skilled professionals, exceptional talents, and outstanding students. It provides stability, security, and opportunities for individuals to contribute to the country’s economy and innovation while fostering growth, creativity, and global competitiveness.

The Golden Visa offers a range of benefits:

• Long-term Residency: Secure 5- or 10-year residency without frequent renewals.
• Family Sponsorship: Sponsor spouse, children, and dependents for family stability.
• Business Opportunities: Investors and entrepreneurs can establish and manage businesses freely.
• Career Growth: Skilled professionals gain stability and access to diverse opportunities.
• Education and Healthcare: Residents can access world-class institutions and services.
• Pathway to Permanent Residency: Supports long-term settlement and planning.
• Global Mobility: Facilitates easier travel and international business connections.
• Opportunities for Students: Outstanding students can study and develop in a world-class environment. Learn more in our detailed blog on how a student can get a Golden Visa in the UAE.

By attracting top talent and investment, the Golden Visa strengthens the UAE as a global hub for business, innovation, and skilled professionals.

The UAE’s Golden Visa program has seen remarkable growth in recent years. It has successfully attracted investors, professionals, and talented individuals from around the world. The program continues to expand, reflecting the country’s vision of becoming a global hub for business and innovation.

Latest Golden Visa Statistics in the UAE

In 2023, the UAE’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) issued approximately 158,000 Golden Visas, nearly double the 79,617 granted in 2022. Moreover, Golden Visa issuance in the UAE surged due to several key factors:

• Policy Reforms: In early 2024, the UAE removed the AED 1 million minimum down payment requirement for real estate investments. Now, applicants only need to acquire property valued at AED 2 million or more, regardless of whether the property is mortgaged or fully paid for. This simplifies the eligibility process and creates opportunities for more investors to benefit from long-term residency.
• Expansion of Eligibility Categories: In 2025, the UAE introduced five new categories for Golden Visa eligibility, including:

  • Nurses

  • Teachers and academic professionals

  • E-sports and gaming professionals

  • Digital content creators and media professionals

  • Luxury yacht owners and maritime executives

These developments indicate a robust expansion of the Golden Visa program. They also align with the UAE’s strategic objectives to attract skilled professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs, contributing to the nation’s economic and social development.

Top Nationalities Benefiting from the UAE Golden Visa Program

The UAE Golden Visa program has attracted applicants from across the globe, with certain nationalities showing the highest participation. 

• Indians: A large number of investors, tech professionals, and business owners from India have secured Golden Visas. Some high-profile Indian recipients of the UAE Golden Visa include Bollywood superstars Shah Rukh Khan, Sanjay Dutt, and Rajinikanth.
• Russians:  Many Russian entrepreneurs and investors in real estate and finance have benefited from the program. Since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine war in early 2022, Russians have purchased an estimated AED 23.12 billion worth of properties in Dubai.
• Pakistanis: Skilled professionals, investors, and business owners from Pakistan are among the top beneficiaries. Some prominent Pakistani nationals who have received the UAE Golden Visa include Shoaib Malik, Ali Zafar, and Wasim Akram.
• Other notable nationalities: Applicants from Egypt, the Philippines, and the UK are increasingly participating, particularly in healthcare, technology, and creative industries.

This diverse mix reflects the UAE’s focus on attracting talent and investment from around the world.

UAE’s Strategic Goals Behind the Golden Visa Initiative

The UAE Golden Visa program aims to attract investors, skilled professionals, and exceptional talents to support the country’s economic growth and global competitiveness. By offering long-term residency, the program encourages business development, investment, and innovation.

• Economic Growth: The program helps diversify the economy, with the non-oil sector now contributing over 70% of GDP.
• Attracting Investors and Entrepreneurs: Long-term residency makes it easier for investors and entrepreneurs to establish businesses in the UAE.
• Talent Attraction: New categories, including nurses, teachers, and digital creators, allow the UAE to tap into a broader global talent pool.
• Global Positioning: The Golden Visa strengthens the UAE’s position as a hub for business, technology, and the digital economy, including cryptocurrency and blockchain initiatives.

In short, the Golden Visa helps the UAE attract talent, drive investment, and strengthen its position as a global hub for innovation.

Clearing Misconceptions About the UAE Golden Visa

The UAE Golden Visa has gained widespread attention, but along with its popularity, several myths and rumors have emerged. It’s important to separate fact from fiction to help prospective applicants make informed decisions. The following are some of the most common misconceptions:

• Lifetime Golden Visa for a One-Time Fee: Many believe Indians or certain nationalities can secure a “lifetime” Golden Visa for INR 23.3 lakh (≈ AED 100,000). This is false. The UAE authorities have clarified that no such scheme exists.
• Permanent Citizenship: Some assume the Golden Visa grants automatic UAE citizenship. In reality, it provides long-term residency (5- or 10-year, depending on category) but not citizenship.
• Guaranteed Approval for All Applicants: Holding investment funds or professional credentials does not automatically guarantee a Golden Visa. Applicants must meet specific criteria and go through the official evaluation process.
• Immediate Family Inclusion: While the Golden Visa allows sponsoring family members, eligibility requirements and proper documentation are needed, and sponsorship is not automatic.
• Visa Cannot Be Renewed: Another myth is that the Golden Visa cannot be renewed. In fact, it is a renewable long-term residency, provided the holder continues to meet the eligibility criteria.

By understanding these facts, applicants can navigate the Golden Visa process confidently and avoid misinformation.

Applying for the UAE Golden Visa involves a clear process that ensures qualified individuals can complete their applications smoothly. Below is a step-by-step guide with complete details.

Step 1: Check Eligibility

• You must first confirm that you fall under one of the eligible categories, such as investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, skilled professionals, outstanding students, exceptional talents, humanitarian pioneers, or frontline heroes.
• Each category has its own set of Golden Visa requirements, so you should carefully review the criteria before beginning your application.

Next comes the part about gathering all required documents for the successful application filing.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

• You need to keep your valid passport and recent passport-sized photographs ready for submission.
• Depending on your category, you may be required to provide proof of investment, evidence of business ownership, academic certificates, or professional qualifications.
• You must also submit your current visa or entry permit, if applicable, along with valid health insurance that meets UAE standards.

Gather all the mentioned copies accordingly for a smoother filing.

Step 3: Submit the Application

• You can apply online through the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security) portal if you are outside Dubai.
• If you are applying in Dubai, you should use the GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) website.
• Applicants also have the option to submit their applications at authorized service centers across the UAE for direct assistance.

Many rely on UAE visa services to help with document preparation and submission, ensuring a smooth process.

Step 4: Pay Fees and Await Approval

• You are required to pay the application fees at the time of submission, either online or at the service center.
• Once submitted, your application will go through verification, document review, and background checks conducted by the authorities.
• You can track the status of your application online while waiting for approval.

Professionals often use PRO services in the UAE to handle paperwork, approvals, and government liaison efficiently.

Step 5: Receive Your Golden Visa

• Once your application is approved, you will receive your Golden Visa electronically from the authorities.
• After approval, you can collect your Emirates ID, which will be linked to your long-term residency status.
• The Golden Visa is valid for up to ten years and can be renewed, offering stability and security for you and your family in the UAE.
• Entrepreneurs frequently combine this with business setup services in the UAE to establish or expand their companies while holding long-term residency.

By following this process, applicants can understand the Golden Visa application and the specific Golden Visa UAE requirements needed for investors, professionals, and entrepreneurs.

Note: All applicants must submit a clear copy of the outer cover page of their passport to enhance security and transparency. This ensures that authorities approve the Golden Visa without delays. For those looking to start a company alongside their Golden Visa, services related to company formation in the UAE by Safe Ledger provide guidance on licenses, trade approvals, and legal registration.

The UAE Golden Visa has become a powerful tool to attract investors, skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and exceptional talents from around the world. With long-term residency, family sponsorship, and business opportunities, it offers stability and growth in one of the world’s most dynamic economies. 

The program continues to expand, supporting the UAE’s vision of innovation, economic diversification, and global competitiveness. For individuals eligible for the Golden Visa, it is a step toward long-term security and success in the UAE.