DXB sets new global benchmark as record traffic volumes become the norm

Name: Smart Zones UAE
Address: 11th Floor, Suite No. 1108, Silver Tower, Downtown, Business Bay, Dubai, UAE., Dubai, AE
Telephone: tel:+971529604444

Dubai Airports today announced that Dubai International (DXB) welcomed 95.2 million guests in 2025, up 3.1% year on year, marking the busiest year in the airport’s history and the highest annual international passenger traffic ever recorded by any airport.

More significantly, 2025 was defined not by a single peak, but by sustained performance at record levels. DXB achieved its busiest day, month, quarter and year on record, operating at the edge of physical capacity while consistently delivering operational excellence. What would represent extraordinary strain elsewhere has become part of DXB’s normal operating rhythm.

December closed as the busiest month in DXB history, with 8.7 million guests, up 6.1% year on year. The fourth quarter was also the busiest ever, with 25.1 million guests, an increase of 5.9% compared to the same period in 2024.

Total flight movements reached 118,000 in Q4, up 5%, bringing the annual total to 454,800 a rise of 3.3% year on year. Despite continued growth in movements, average passengers per movement remained strong at 214, reflecting sustained deployment of larger aircraft and high load efficiency. The annual load factor stood at 77.6%, a marginal adjustment of 0.5 percentage points.

Consistency at Scale

Rather than a story of isolated surges, 2025 demonstrated DXB’s ability to operate continuously and deliver a superior guest experience at record levels through disciplined planning and close coordination across the oneDXB community comprising airlines, service partners and government stakeholders.

DXB efficiently managed 86.75 million bags in 2025, a 4.95% year-on-year increase, marking the highest ever baggage volume handled during the calendar year. Highlighting the airport’s commitment to operational excellence, 89% of all arriving baggage was delivered to guests terminating at DXB within 45 minutes of the aircraft arriving on stand. DXB continued to deliver world-class mishandled baggage performance at 99.75%, translating to 2.47 mishandled bags per 1,000 guests. Guest processing times also remained stable at scale, with 99.35% of guests experiencing waiting times of less than 10 minutes at departure passport control, while 98.8% waiting under 15 minutes at arrival passport control. Security check waiting times remained below 5 minutes for 98.9% of guests.

Broad and Balanced Global Connectivity

India retained its position as DXB’s largest country market with 11.9 million guests, followed by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at 7.5 million, the United Kingdom at 6.3 million, Pakistan at 4.3 million, and the United States at 3.3 million.

Several markets recorded particularly strong growth during the year. Traffic from China increased 16.6% to 2.5 million, Russia grew 6% to 2.8 million, Turkey rose 6.7% to 2.2 million, Egypt expanded 14.3% to 1.8 million, and Italy climbed 12.5% to 1.6 million.

London remained DXB’s busiest city destination with 3.9 million guests, followed by Riyadh at 3 million, Mumbai and Jeddah at 2.4 million each, and New Delhi at 2.2 million.

By the end of 2025, DXB was connected to 291 destinations across 110 countries, served by 108 international airlines, reinforcing its position as one of the most globally connected hubs in the world.
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, said, “Airports are often defined by moments of intensity, but long-term performance is defined by how well those moments are sustained. In 2025, DXB showed that record traffic is no longer an exception, but part of its operating reality. That consistency at scale reflects the maturity of the system and the strength of collaboration across our oneDXB airport community to deliver excellence under growing demand. We expect traffic to approach 99.5 million in 2026, supported by close coordination across the sector and the oneDXB community.”

Outlook

With demand continuing to build and capacity carefully managed, Dubai’s airports are entering a phase where performance is defined not by how high it can surge, but by how reliably it can sustain growth while consistently delivering a superior guest experience. As traffic patterns evolve, the complementary role of Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC) will continue to expand, ensuring the emirate remains prepared for the next era of global aviation.

Source: https://mediaoffice.ae/en/news/2026/february/11-02/dxb-sets-new-global

Connect with our Business Setup Experts to know more: hidubai@smartzonesuae.com
+971 529604444 / +971 43614555

Dubai’s tourism industry achieves third successive record-breaking year

– Dubai’s tourism industry achieves third successive record-breaking year with 19.59 million international visitors in 2025, up 5% YoY

Strategic partnerships, global marketing campaigns and major events contributed to Dubai welcoming 19.59 million international overnight visitors in 2025, marking a 5% increase compared to 18.72 million arrivals in 2024, according to data published by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), and a third successive year of record-setting figures. The city ended the year by welcoming more than 2 million visitors in a single calendar month for the first time in December, building strong momentum heading into 2026.

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, said the remarkable annual performance of the city’s tourism industry reflects the strategic vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and the ambitious goals set out in the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.

“Dubai’s strong tourism growth momentum has been driven by the leadership’s commitment to building a city that connects the world, creates opportunity, and offers distinctive and enriching experiences for global travellers. By further enhancing the city’s exceptional infrastructure and forging strong global partnerships, we continue to consolidate Dubai’s emergence as one of the world’s most sought after destinations. Dubai’s success also reflects the city’s diversity, cultural vibrancy, and its ability to continuously evolve its tourism and hospitality offerings. Through close collaboration between all stakeholders, we are focused on driving greater innovation and raising service excellence across the tourism ecosystem.”

“The tourism sector is one of the key drivers of economic diversification and sustainable growth, in line with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. We are focused on further developing Dubai’s integrated tourism ecosystem to reinforce its status as a leading global destination for business and leisure and one of the world’s best cities to visit, live and work in.” His Highness added.

Growth in key regions
DET’s diversified year-round market strategy, delivered in collaboration with domestic stakeholders and more than 3,000 international partners, showcased Dubai to new and returning visitors from both traditional and emerging markets. This led to an increase in arrivals from key regions, while also attracting new permanent residents, investors and businesses. In December, the city welcomed 2.04 million international overnight visitors, marking 6% year-on-year growth. The previous record month for the city was January 2025, with 1.94 million visitors.

According to DET’s full year data, the GCC and MENA proximity markets had a combined 26% share of overall visitors to Dubai in 2025, with 2.99 million (15%) and 2.17 million (11%) arrivals respectively. Western Europe was again the largest source market to Dubai, with 4.1 million visitors (21%), up from 3.74 million in 2024, followed by CIS and Eastern Europe (2.89 million; 15%), South Asia (2.89 million; 15%), North East and South East Asia (1.85 million; 9%), the Americas (1.40 million; 7%), Africa (897,000; 5%) and Australasia (401,000; 2%).

His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), said: “Under the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s 2025 tourism performance reflects the strength of our economic model, one anchored in effective public-private collaboration and aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33. Tourism continues to be a key driver of economic diversification, delivering tangible impact through GDP growth, investment inflows, and global talent attraction. Our focus remains on scaling sustainable, accessible growth and accelerating progress toward the D33 ambition to double Dubai’s economy by 2033.”

The continued growth in visitation reflects the strength of Dubai’s diversified destination strategy, delivered in close partnership with the public and private sector. Building on Dubai’s ranking as the world’s leading hub for Greenfield Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) project attraction, tourism and hospitality continues to be a key driver for economic growth, contributing significantly to the emirate’s gross domestic product (GDP) and supporting the wider D33 ambition to double the size of the emirate’s economy by 2033. According to data published in the Financial Times Ltd’s ‘fDi Markets’ tracking database, in the first half of 2025, hotels and tourism (21.3%) was one of the top five sectors for total estimated FDI capital flows into Dubai.

Hotel sector performance
Adding to its appeal for international audiences, new openings and the launch of strategic initiatives saw Dubai’s hotel and hospitality sectors record impressive results in 2025. By the end of December, the city’s hotel inventory reached 154,264 rooms across 827 establishments, which puts it well ahead of global peer cities such as Bangkok, New York, Paris and Singapore, and almost on par with London in terms of total room inventory. In 2025, the city welcomed new property openings across all segments and in various locations, including Ciel Dubai Marina, Vignette Collection by IHG, the world’s tallest hotel; Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab; Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Dubai; Cheval Maison – Expo City; and Vida Dubai Mall.

Average occupancy for hotels in Dubai stood at 80.7% in 2025, up from 78.2% in 2024, according to DET’s hospitality metrics. Occupied room nights increased by 4% to 44.85 million in 2025, compared to 43.03 million in 2024, with guests’ length of stay averaging 3.7 nights. The average daily rate (ADR) rose to AED579, an increase of 8% compared to AED538 in 2024, while revenue per available room (RevPAR) increased by 11% to AED467 compared to AED421 the previous year.

His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), part of DET, said: “Guided by visionary leadership, Dubai’s record international visitation is a testament to global confidence in the destination and the effectiveness of policies aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, as well as the collective strength of partnerships across sectors and communities that defines our city. We’re attracting the world’s top talent through progressive visa policies and positioning Dubai as the destination of choice for entrepreneurs, remote workers, and families, and elevating Dubai as the world’s leading hub across a wide range of economic sectors. As we look forward, our priorities will be to continue enhancing Dubai’s global competitiveness through digital innovation and providing exceptional guest experiences at every touchpoint, with powerful momentum after surpassing the 2 million figure for a single month in December for the first time. In partnership with stakeholders across the public and sectors, we remain dedicated to sustained investment in capacity, infrastructure development, and initiatives to make Dubai the world’s best city to visit, live and work in.”

In 2025, a number of new initiatives were introduced to drive the growth in Dubai’s hospitality sector. Launched by DET in October, the Hotel Incentive Programme for investors is designed to stimulate development in future high-growth areas, and applies to new hotels, resorts, hotel apartments and other facilities located within Dubai South, Palm Jebel Ali, Dubai Parks, and the Dubai Islands.

Developed by DET, a citywide introduction of a one-time contactless hotel guest check-in solution was also unveiled in December, which will allow guests to bypass in-person check-in procedures once implemented at the city’s hotels and holiday homes to maximise time in the city.

Campaigns and partnerships
Showcasing Dubai’s ever-evolving and diverse destination offering, the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), part of DET, launched a series of campaigns in 2025, including ‘Find Your Story’, with Millie Bobby Brown and Jake Bongiovi; ‘Dubai. That’s How You Summer’; and ‘Dubai, Ready for a Surprise?’, with Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma. These dynamic global marketing campaigns continue to be a key driver of visitation by promoting Dubai to new international audiences.

Further supporting the goals of the D33 Agenda, DET signed strategic partnerships in 2025 with global organizations such as Marriott International, Visa, Hyatt, Premier Inn, and Amadeus to enhance the visitor experience and elevate the city’s global appeal. A highlight last year was the unveiling of the Beautiful Destinations Academy, Powered by Dubai, to further develop the creator community.

Launched in April by DET in partnership with Beautiful Destinations, the pioneering professional development initiative sets new global benchmarks for travel content creation.

Global recognition
Reinforcing a commitment to accessible travel, sustainability and safety, Dubai received multiple global accolades in 2025. One of the year’s biggest milestones came in April when Dubai was recognised as the first Certified Autism Destination™ in the Eastern Hemisphere. Other major accolades saw Dubai ranked as one of the world’s top ten safest cities in Numbeo’s Safety Index by City and named the world’s best city for solo female travellers in a study by travel insurance company InsureMyTrip, receiving the highest scores across the 62-city survey for ‘feeling safe’ and for ‘feeling safe walking alone at night’.

The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025 list was announced in October with Dubai having three properties included: Atlantis The Royal at No.6, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab a new entry at No.20, and The Lana Dubai at No.35. The first MICHELIN Key hotels in the Middle East were also revealed in October, with 13 Dubai-based hotels awarded keys and 34 selected for a ‘high quality stay’.

On The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 list, announced in June, two Dubai restaurants were included in the top 50. Trèsind Studio was ranked at No.27, and named the best restaurant in the Middle East, while Orfali Bros re-entered the top 50, ranking at No.37. It was also announced in October that cultural food tours in Old Dubai had been named as one of the top global experiences for 2026 in Lonely Planet’s Best In Travel guide, spotlighting Dubai’s diverse and unique culinary scene.

In 2025, Dubai International (DXB) retained its position as the world’s busiest airport for international passengers for the 11th consecutive year, according to Airports Council International (ACI). DXB achieved its highest quarterly traffic in Q3 2025, welcoming 24.2 million guests between July and September – a 1.9% increase year-on-year. Total traffic for the first nine months of 2025 was 70.1 million guests, a 2.1% increase year-on-year.

Major events and festivals
Developed and managed by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), part of DET, the city’s retail calendar and marquee events such as the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) and Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) continued to attract international visitors throughout the year. In 2025, it was a record edition for DFC with over three million total participants, up from 2.7 million participants in 2024. This year it will celebrate its tenth edition.

Concluding the sporting year in December, the inaugural World Sports Summit organised by Dubai Sports Council welcomed more than 1,500 global sports leaders to the city. Aligned with the objectives of the Dubai Sports Sector Strategic Plan 2033, the summit reinforced Dubai’s position as a global hub for sports tourism and events. Looking ahead to the biggest events in 2026, the prestigious Dubai World Cup will mark a historic milestone with its 30th running since the inaugural race in 1996.
At the 2025 World Travel Awards, Dubai was named the world’s leading exhibition destination. Dubai Business Events (DBE), the city’s official convention bureau and part of DET, secured 504 successful bids in 2025 to host events through to 2029, including major congresses and high-profile incentive programmes. This achievement marked a 15% increase compared to the previous year, and represented a strong success rate from a total of 747 bids submitted, up 11% year-on-year.

Education and training
Dubai College of Tourism (DCT), established by DET, achieved notable progress in 2025, reinforcing its position as a leader in hospitality education and workforce development. In March 2025, DCT announced additional apprenticeship qualifications including the launch of Hospitality Apprenticeship Programme for Emiratis followed by a partnership with Emirates Flight Catering to expand the Culinary Arts Apprenticeship Programme. DCT graduated its first intake of students of determination in December having successfully completed a practical skills course designed to assist them to enter the workforce. A significant milestone was also achieved in 2025, with DCT securing onward articulation pathways for students to UK BA top up programmes in Hospitality, Events and Tourism. The knowledge and resourcefulness of the tourist-facing-workforce is a critical pillar for DCT and the online training platform, Dubai Way, crossed over 200,000 students, with over 70,000 now having completed training in Autism and Sensory Awareness.

Aligned with the D33 Agenda, these initiatives demonstrate DCT’s commitment to developing the city’s tourism workforce, integrating Emiratis into the private sector, and consolidating Dubai’s position as a premier global destination for hospitality excellence.

Sustainability initiatives
Aligned with the goals of the D33 Agenda, Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, and Quality of Life Strategy 2033, Dubai’s flagship sustainability initiatives achieved significant milestones in 2025. DET’s Dubai Sustainable Tourism (DST) drive recognised 153 hotels with the DST Stamp in February 2025, representing a 118% increase from the previous year’s 70 hotels. The recognition system awarded 18 hotels gold tier status, 64 silver, and 71 bronze based on assessments of energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste management practices. Submissions have already been made for the third cycle of the DST Stamp, with awardees to be announced soon.

Dubai Can’s Refill for Life initiative expanded its water refill station network in 2025 with redesigned stations featuring improved user-friendliness and advanced technology. By the end of the year, the initiative had eliminated 42.7 million single-use plastic bottles while dispensing more than 21.3 million litres of water via 65 strategically positioned stations. DUBAI REEF, one of the largest purpose-built reef developments in the world, also progressed with more than 68% of its planned 20,000 reef modules fabricated and more than 47% deployed by the end of 2025, supporting the conservation of local marine species.

Gastronomy
Dubai further cemented its position as one of the world’s fastest-growing and most exciting culinary capitals with a host of new restaurant openings which showcased the city’s diverse gastronomy scene. Home to a variety of gastronomical experiences appealing to all budgets and preferences, Dubai’s food and beverage sector is influenced by the tastes of nearly 200 nationalities who call the emirate home. Standout new openings in 2025 included New York-style Italian restaurant CARBONE at Atlantis The Royal, high-end Chinese restaurant brand China Tang at The Lana Dorchester Collection, and a range of dining experiences at the five-star Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab resort.

Unveiled in May, the fourth edition of the MICHELIN Guide Dubai featured a total of 119 restaurants across 35 cuisines, including FZN by Björn Frantzén and Trèsind Studio being named the city’s first three-starred restaurants. The 2025 MICHELIN Guide also included three two-starred restaurants, 14 one-starred, 22 Bib Gourmands, and three MICHELIN Green Stars. With this latest recognition for FZN, Björn Frantzén became the first chef globally to hold three MICHELIN stars for three different restaurants, while homegrown concept Trèsind Studio became the world’s first Indian MICHELIN three-starred restaurant.

Outlook for 2026 and beyond
Looking ahead, Dubai will accelerate its D33 vision with bold infrastructure advancements and cultural milestones. As the UAE observes the Year of the Family in 2026, Dubai is reinforcing the values that make it more than just a destination. The Ramadan month and Season of Wulfa period will showcase a shared heritage, bringing people together through authentic cultural experiences and community gatherings that celebrate the nearly 200 nationalities that reside in the city.

New and upcoming developments that will cater to the growing population and tourism numbers include the expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) and the construction of the Dubai Metro Blue Line, which will further integrate neighbourhoods, making the city even more welcoming and accessible.

The extensive infrastructure developments and strategic initiatives planned for 2026 and beyond will further strengthen Dubai’s tourism proposition. Through the seamless fusion of cutting-edge technology, preserved cultural authenticity, and sustainable urban planning, Dubai is shaping a future-forward metropolis that sets new benchmarks for destination excellence. These transformative investments ensure the emirate remains at the forefront of global tourism while establishing a resilient, sustainable foundation for future generations.

Source: https://mediaoffice.ae/en/news/2026/february/09-02/dubais-tourism-industry-achieves-third-successive-record-breaking-year

Connect with our Business Setup Experts to know more: hidubai@smartzonesuae.com
+971 529604444 / +971 43614555

UAE financial authority warns of unlicensed company

The UAE’s Capital Market Authority (CMA) has issued an important advisory to the public, warning individuals and investors against dealing with Volcano Capital Marketing Management, a company found to be operating without the required financial license.

In a notice published on Tuesday, January 13, the authority confirmed that Volcano Capital Marketing Management is not authorized to carry out any regulated financial activities or provide investment-related services within the UAE. The CMA emphasized that it bears no responsibility for any losses or transactions conducted with this unlicensed company.

The public is strongly advised to verify a company’s regulatory status before engaging in any form of financial dealings. The authority urged investors to always ensure that the firms they work with are registered and licensed under UAE law to protect themselves from potential fraud and financial misconduct.

This is not the first time the authority has issued such a warning. On December 4, the CMA cautioned residents about a Dubai-based company, Global Capital Securities Trading, which was posing as a legitimate capital trading firm. The entity was reportedly operating from a representative office linked to Global Capital Market Limited, but without proper authorization to conduct trading or investment activities in the country.

The UAE continues to take a firm stance against unlicensed financial operations, reinforcing its commitment to maintaining transparency, investor protection, and regulatory compliance across the financial sector.

Source: https://www.khaleejtimes.com/business/uae-financial-authority-warns-of-unlicensed-company?_refresh=true

Connect with our Business Setup Experts to know more: hidubai@smartzonesuae.com
+971 529604444 / +971 43614555

Expatriate Global: Elevating Futures by Empowering Entrepreneurs in Dubai’s Landscape

Embarking on the thrilling journey of international business expansion sparks a dream for many ambitious entrepreneurs. However, the intricate web of global regulations, complex tax systems, and strict citizenship requirements often form a significant barrier. This leaves entrepreneurs in a state of uncertainty. In the face of this challenging landscape, Nabeel Ahmad conceived the idea of Expatriate Global.

Expatriate Global was established with the goal of simplifying the complexities of conducting business in Dubai. It strives to provide entrepreneurs with the necessary tools and strategies to capitalize on opportunities in this city of dreams and achieve unparalleled success.

Setting up a business in Dubai presents a myriad of advantages, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs. The absence of personal, corporate, capital tax, or VAT, coupled with the allowance of 100% foreign ownership, ensures a business-friendly environment. Anonymity and privacy protection are guaranteed, and in free zones, there is no minimum share capital requirement, nor an obligation to deposit capital in a bank. The flexibility in these regulations allows businesses to flourish with ease.

Expatriate Global recognizes the challenges faced by aspiring high-net-worth individuals, business owners, and entrepreneurs, attempting to expand their businesses in Dubai. Issues related to taxation, citizenship acquisition, and asset protection stand out as major hurdles for these individuals. Expatriate Global endeavors to resolve these concerns, offering a seamless path to complete financial and business freedom for its clients.

Expatriate Global, with its team of consultants and lawyers, provides tailored advice and strategies that align with client’s unique needs and goals, aiming for complete satisfaction. “The vision behind Expatriate Global is to be a trusted partner in the journey of entrepreneurs, guiding them through the intricacies of international business and ensuring their success in Dubai,” says Nabeel Ahmad, the Founder, and CEO.

Beyond setting up a business in Dubai, Expatriate Global enables clients to obtain residency through the Golden Visa. To ensure this process, strategic partnerships have been forged with renowned visa attorneys, government officials, and businessmen. This collaboration opens doors to new markets, broadens horizons, and enables entrepreneurs to embrace the concept of business expansion by attaining the Golden Visa.

Having facilitated the relocation of hundreds of clients, along with their families, to Dubai and contributing to cumulative tax savings of $15 million, Expatriate Global asserts its substantial influence on the business landscape of Dubai.

Nabeel Ahmad states that the company aims to become a symbol of trust and reliability in the industry. His commitment to the success of his clients is evident in Expatriate Global’s mission. “Our goal is to be the catalyst for entrepreneurs, providing them with the knowledge, resources, and support needed to thrive in Dubai’s competitive business environment,” he adds.

In conclusion, Expatriate Global’s tale is one of empowerment and success in the vibrant landscape of Dubai. Expatriate Global remains committed to guiding entrepreneurs toward new beginnings in the City of Gold as they pursue global opportunities.

As a testament to its success, Expatriate Global affirms to stand as a reliable partner for entrepreneurs seeking seamless entry into the Dubai market. The company’s focus on client satisfaction underscores its mission to provide invaluable support and guidance.

Publish January 21, 2024

Source: https://www.gulftoday.ae/business/2024/01/21/expatriate-global-elevating-futures-by-empowering-entrepreneurs-in-dubais-landscape

Connect with our Business Setup Experts to know more: hidubai@smartzonesuae.com
+971 529604444 / +971 43614555

UAE Golden Visa: 5 Paths to 10-Year Residency without Employment

Explore 5 pathways to secure a 10-year residency through the UAE Golden Visa without employment:

Dubai has recently revised the minimum down payment requirement for property buyers seeking eligibility for a long-term residency permit.

The highly coveted Golden Visa in the UAE has been granted to numerous investors, professionals, students, and entrepreneurs since its introduction in 2019.

As reported by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) – Dubai, there has been a notable 52% increase in the issuance of Golden Visas in the first half of 2023. By November 2022, the emirate had successfully issued over 150,000 Golden Visas to qualified property buyers, investors, professionals, and others.

This 10-year visa provides several benefits, such as the issuance of residence permits for family members, including spouses and children. Notably, the age limit for sponsored children has been raised from 18 to 25 years, and there is no age restriction for unmarried daughters. Residence permits are extended to children of determination without regard to their age. Furthermore, there are no constraints on sponsoring domestic workers, and the Golden Residence remains valid without limitations on the maximum duration of stay outside the UAE.

Professionals in healthcare, media, IT, and other industries earning a monthly salary of Dh30,000 or more are eligible for the Golden Visa.

However, specific categories exist where individuals do not need employment to apply for a 10-year visa. Here are five such categories:

Property buyers:

Residents and foreign investors in the UAE purchasing one or more properties with a total value of Dh2 million and above can apply for the Golden Visa. This includes both off-plan and existing properties in the country.

In a significant announcement, Dubai has eliminated the Dh1 million down payment requirement for property buyers to be eligible for the 10-year visa. However, the total value of the property should still be Dh2 million and above to meet the eligibility criteria.

Cash deposit:

High-net-worth individuals can deposit Dh2 million with a local bank for a two-year period to qualify for this prestigious visa. Numerous local banks in the country are offering assistance to individuals opting for this scheme.

Entrepreneur:

he executive regulations have established flexible requirements for entrepreneurs seeking eligibility for the Golden Residency. Entrepreneurs must own or partner in a startup registered in the country in the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) category, generating annual revenues of not less than Dh1 million.

Additionally, if the individual is a founder or one of the founders of a prior entrepreneurial project(s) sold for a total value of not less than Dh7 million, they qualify for the Golden Residence. Approval from the Ministry of Economy or the competent local authorities is necessary for projects or ideas.

Scientist & researchers:

Golden Visa residency is conferred upon scientists and researchers with significant achievements and influence in their field, based on recommendations from the Emirates Scientists Council. Candidates must hold a PhD or Master’s Degree in disciplines such as engineering, technology, life sciences, and natural sciences from leading universities worldwide, along with substantial research accomplishments.

Outstanding students:

High-achieving students in UAE secondary schools and outstanding graduates from UAE universities and the top 100 universities worldwide may apply for the 10-year visa. Specific criteria include academic performance (cumulative average), the year of graduation, and university classification.

Publish January 29, 2024

Source: https://www.khaleejtimes.com/life-and-living/visa-and-immigration-in-uae/uae-golden-visa-5-ways-to-get-10-year-residency-without-a-job?_refresh=true

Connect with our Business Setup Experts to know more: hidubai@smartzonesuae.com
+971 529604444 / +971 43614555

Dubai: The issuance of Golden Visas in the first half of 2023

Dubai has experienced a substantial surge of 52 percent in the issuance of Golden Visas during the first half of this year, in comparison to the same period in the previous year.

As reported by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) – Dubai, the Emirate has witnessed a significant 63 percent increase in the issuance of residency visas this year, along with a notable 21 percent growth in tourism.

These developments coincide with the announcement by the GDRFA regarding an upcoming global conference focused on the future of port policies. Dubai will play host to this conference, which aims to delve into the future of travel and provide a platform for the exchange of ideas and experiences among international experts in the realm of border port management.

Publish Date: Tue 12 Sep 2023

Source: https://www.khaleejtimes.com/uae/dubai-over-50-increase-in-golden-visas-issued-in-first-half-of-2023

Do Contact Us at any time to clarify all your queries in regards to apply for golden visa in Dubai.

Connect with our Business Incubators to know more: hidubai@smartzonesuae.com

+971 529604444 / +971 43614555