The United Arab Emirates has declared a historic update on the Golden Visa holders, which will enable them to receive a collection of unique consular advantages initially granted solely to Emirati nationals. The development of the initiative announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) in partnership with the Federal Authority of Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security at GITEX Global 2025 represents a new step in the UAE to secure, include, and be competitive in providing long-term residency.
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Golden Visa Holders Now Covered by UAE Consular Services
For the first time, foreign residents holding a 10-year Golden Visa will receive the support of UAE missions abroad officially, an unprecedented step that will contribute to the increased safety and confidence of long-term expatriates.
The Emirates News Agency (WAM) has stated that the initiative has been characterized as the first of its kind and follows the national theme of the Year of Community: Hand in Hand.
Some of the greatest advantages are that Golden Visa holders who misplace or damage their passports while traveling can access an electronic return document, which lasts a period of seven days and can help them easily get back to the UAE.
24/7 Hotline and Global Emergency Assistance
The MoFA has also introduced a special 24/7 hotline, which can assist the Golden Visa holders round-the-clock with any emergent assistance or clarification needed during their stay abroad.
Also, such inhabitants will now exist in national evacuation and emergency strategies in case of a crisis like natural disasters or political unrest abroad, something that was only enjoyed by the Emirati citizens.
The initiative guarantees quick assistance to Golden Visa holders with the help of the UAE embassies and consulates, such as emergency evacuation, crisis management, and humanitarian assistance when needed.
Support for Families and Repatriation
The other important aspect of the policy includes coverage of deceased Golden Visa holders outside of the country. The new service simplifies the process of repatriation and burial, and it helps in speeding up official clearances and provides direct assistance to families passing through hard times.
The initiative reduces the complexities of the consular procedure and promotes the coordination of actions among authorities, proving that the UAE is highly concerned with the welfare of its long-term residents, even outside of its borders.
Strengthening the UAE’s Global Talent Appeal
Undersecretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Omar Obaid Alhesan Alshamsi, underlined that this new milestone is part of the vision of the UAE to be one of the most competitive countries in the world regarding global talent. He observed that the program strengthens the UAE’s reputation as a country that places a high value on inclusion, innovation, and human capital, which are fundamental pillars of its current economic and social change.
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Who Qualifies for the UAE Golden Visa?
Firstly, the UAE Golden Visa was established to award outstanding talent and contributions by providing those who qualify with a 10-year renewable residency in diverse categories.
It is currently open to:
- Investors and entrepreneurs
- Scientists and researchers
- Skilled professionals and healthcare workers
- Outstanding students and graduates
- Cultural and creative professionals, including teachers, content creators, and gaming experts
More recently, Dubai has broadened the qualification requirements to include new industries and digital creators to fit the wider Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).
A New Era of Residency Confidence
Now, having the new benefits, it has become possible to travel the entire world with increased security and with the support of the UAE government, proving that the nation has been the global leader in the welfare of residents, their mobility, and their inclusivity.
With the UAE constantly developing its residency structure, the new change is a positive indicator of taking a new step towards establishing a closer relationship between the country and its multinational expatriate population—the spirit of Hand in Hand.