Key Takeaways
• UAE expands Golden Visa from June 2025 to include AI, climate tech, healthcare, e-sports, and yacht ownership.
• Golden Visa offers 10-year residency with job flexibility, family sponsorship, and no local sponsor requirement.
• Eligible professionals include nurses with 15+ years service, educators, digital creators, esports pros, and top university grads.
The United Arab Emirates 🇦🇪 has taken a bold step to strengthen its position as a global leader in technology and innovation by expanding its Golden Visa program. As of June 30, 2025, the UAE’s government has widened the scope of this long-term residency scheme to attract top talent in artificial intelligence (AI), climate technology, and other advanced tech sectors. This move is part of the country’s Centennial 2071 vision, which aims to build a knowledge-based, diversified economy ready for the future.
Who is affected? The expansion targets highly skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and graduates from the world’s best universities, as well as experts in healthcare, education, digital content creation, e-sports, and luxury yacht ownership. What’s new? The Golden Visa now covers five new categories, with a special focus on AI, climate tech, and digital innovation. Where and when? These changes apply across the United Arab Emirates 🇦🇪, effective from June 2025. Why? The UAE wants to attract and keep the world’s best minds to drive economic growth and innovation. How? By offering a 10-year residency visa with flexible rules, family sponsorship, and the freedom to change jobs or start businesses.
Let’s break down what these changes mean, who can benefit, and how the process works.
UAE Golden Visa: A New Era for Global Talent
The Golden Visa program was first launched in 2019, giving long-term residency to investors, entrepreneurs, and outstanding students. Over the years, the UAE has updated the program to include more categories and make it easier for talented people to live and work in the country. The 2025 expansion is the most significant yet, especially for those working in artificial intelligence, climate technology, and advanced digital sectors.
Key Changes in 2025
1. Five New Categories Added
In May 2025, the UAE government announced that the Golden Visa would now be available to professionals in:
- Healthcare (including nurses with over 15 years of service)
- Education (teachers, principals, and university staff with strong academic records)
- Digital Content Creation (filmmakers, influencers, and other creators)
- E-sports (professional gamers and related experts)
- Luxury Yacht Ownership (owners and professionals working with yachts at least 40 meters long)
2. Focus on AI, Climate Tech, and Advanced Technologies
The biggest change is the program’s new focus on attracting people with skills in:
- Artificial intelligence (AI)
- Climate technology
- Internet of Things (IoT)
- Cloud computing
- Other advanced tech sectors
This shift shows the UAE’s commitment to building a future-ready economy powered by innovation and sustainability.
3. Increased Flexibility and Demand
Visa facilitators report a sharp rise in applications from private bankers, AI consultants, cloud computing experts, and senior executives like CEOs and CTOs. The program’s flexibility is a major draw, as it allows recipients to:
- Switch employers without losing residency
- Start their own businesses
- Sponsor family members
- Separate residency from investment holdings (meaning you don’t lose your visa if you change or sell your investments)
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria Explained
The expanded Golden Visa program covers a wide range of professionals and experts. Here’s a closer look at the main categories and what you need to qualify:
Healthcare Professionals
- Nurses with more than 15 years of service in Dubai Health are now eligible for a 10-year Golden Visa.
- This recognizes the important role nurses and other healthcare workers play in the UAE’s health system.
Educators
- Teachers, principals, and university staff with a record of academic excellence can apply.
- The goal is to attract top educators and raise the standard of education in the UAE.
Digital Creators and E-sports Professionals
- Digital content creators (like filmmakers and influencers) and e-sports professionals (professional gamers) can now get the Golden Visa.
- Applicants must be accredited by Dubai Culture and be at least 25 years old.
- This supports the UAE’s investment in the creative and digital economy.
Luxury Yacht Sector
- The Golden Quay program in Abu Dhabi grants visas to luxury yacht owners and professionals.
- Yachts must be at least 40 meters long to qualify.
Graduates from Top Universities
- Graduates from the world’s top 100 universities are eligible, as well as outstanding graduates from UAE universities.
- This keeps the focus on academic excellence and innovation.
Advanced Technology and AI Experts
- Professionals in artificial intelligence, climate technology, IoT, cloud computing, and related fields are now a top priority.
- The UAE wants to attract experts who can lead projects in these fast-growing areas.
What Does the Golden Visa Offer?
The Golden Visa is more than just a residency permit. It’s a package of benefits designed to make the UAE an attractive place to live, work, and invest.
10-Year Residency
- Golden Visa holders get a 10-year residency permit for themselves and their families.
- This long-term stability is rare in the region and gives professionals peace of mind.
No Local Sponsor Needed
- Unlike most other UAE visas, the Golden Visa does not require a local sponsor.
- This gives holders more independence and flexibility.
Family Sponsorship
- Visa holders can sponsor their spouse, children, and sometimes even parents.
- This makes it easier for families to settle and build a life in the UAE.
Freedom to Change Jobs or Start Businesses
- Golden Visa holders can switch employers or start their own businesses without losing their residency.
- This supports entrepreneurship and career growth.
Investment Flexibility
- Residency is not tied to a specific investment.
- Holders can change or sell their investments without affecting their visa status.
Why Is the UAE Expanding the Golden Visa Now?
The UAE’s leaders have made it clear that attracting top global talent is key to the country’s future. The Centennial 2071 vision sets out a plan for the UAE to become a world leader in science, technology, and innovation by its 100th anniversary.
Government officials say the Golden Visa is a central part of this plan. By making it easier for experts in artificial intelligence, climate technology, and other advanced fields to live and work in the UAE, the country hopes to:
- Drive economic growth
- Create new jobs
- Build a knowledge-based economy
- Lead in sustainable development
Industry experts agree. Visa facilitators like Keswani point out that the program’s flexibility and focus on emerging sectors make it especially attractive to senior professionals managing large assets and complex projects.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for the UAE Golden Visa is a clear process, but it’s important to follow each step carefully. Here’s a general overview:
1. Check Your Eligibility
- Review the specific requirements for your profession or sector.
- Make sure you meet the criteria for years of experience, academic achievement, or sector accreditation.
2. Prepare Your Documents
- Gather all necessary documents, such as:
- Proof of employment or business ownership
- Academic certificates
- Professional licenses or accreditations
- Health clearances
3. Submit Your Application
- Apply through the official UAE immigration portal or an authorized visa service provider.
- The main government portal is the UAE Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA), which handles most Golden Visa applications.
4. Wait for Evaluation
- Authorities will review your application based on merit, relevance to priority sectors, and your potential contribution to the UAE.
5. Receive Approval and Visa Issuance
- If approved, you’ll receive a 10-year residency visa.
- You’ll also have the option to sponsor your family members.
6. Activate Your Residency
- Enter the UAE and complete any final steps to activate your residency status.
- You’ll then be able to live, work, and study in the country.
Official Resources and Contacts
For more information and to start your application, use these official resources:
- UAE Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA): Main portal for Golden Visa applications and information.
- Dubai Health Authority: For healthcare professionals’ eligibility.
- Dubai Culture & Arts Authority: For digital creators and e-sports accreditation.
- Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development: For luxury yacht sector inquiries.
What Does This Mean for Stakeholders?
The expanded Golden Visa program has wide-reaching effects for different groups:
For Professionals in AI, Climate Tech, and Advanced Sectors
- New opportunities to live and work in a country investing heavily in technology and innovation.
- Long-term stability for career and family planning.
- Freedom to pursue entrepreneurship or switch jobs without visa worries.
For Employers and Businesses
- Easier access to top global talent in critical sectors.
- Ability to attract and retain experts who can drive growth and innovation.
- Support for building teams in emerging fields like artificial intelligence and climate technology.
For Families
- Family sponsorship makes it easier to move together and settle in the UAE.
- Access to world-class education and healthcare for children and spouses.
For the UAE Economy
- Boosts the country’s reputation as a global hub for innovation.
- Supports economic diversification away from oil and towards knowledge-based industries.
- Helps build a sustainable, future-ready economy.
Historical Context and Future Outlook
The Golden Visa program has evolved quickly since its launch in 2019. The 2022 update brought in graduates from top global universities and outstanding students, showing the UAE’s focus on science and technology. The 2025 expansion is even more ambitious, targeting the world’s best minds in artificial intelligence, climate tech, and digital innovation.
What’s next? Experts expect the UAE to keep adding new categories, especially in fast-changing technology fields. This will help the country stay ahead in the global race for talent.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the UAE’s approach is seen as a model for other countries looking to attract skilled professionals and build strong, future-focused economies.
Practical Tips for Applicants
- Check the latest requirements on the official ICA website before applying.
- Prepare all documents carefully to avoid delays.
- Consider working with a licensed visa facilitator if you’re unsure about the process.
- Plan for your family’s needs, including schooling and healthcare, as part of your move.
Conclusion: A Golden Opportunity in the UAE
The United Arab Emirates 🇦🇪 has made it clear that it wants to be a magnet for the world’s best talent in artificial intelligence, climate technology, and other advanced sectors. The expanded Golden Visa program offers a unique chance for professionals, entrepreneurs, and graduates to build a future in one of the world’s most dynamic countries.
With its 10-year residency, family sponsorship, and flexible rules, the Golden Visa is more than just a permit—it’s an invitation to be part of the UAE’s ambitious journey toward innovation and global leadership. For those ready to make a difference in AI, climate tech, or digital innovation, the UAE’s doors are now wide open.
For more details or to start your application, visit the UAE Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA).
Learn Today
Golden Visa → A long-term residency permit allowing experts to live and work in the UAE for up to 10 years.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) → Technology enabling machines to perform tasks requiring human intelligence like learning and problem-solving.
Climate Technology → Innovations designed to combat climate change and promote sustainable environmental practices.
Family Sponsorship → A visa benefit allowing holders to sponsor relatives for residency in the UAE.
Dubai Health Authority → Government body overseeing healthcare standards and eligibility for healthcare professional visas in Dubai.
This Article in a Nutshell
Starting June 2025, UAE broadens its Golden Visa to attract top talent in AI, climate tech, healthcare, and digital sectors. Offering 10-year residency with flexible rules, it fosters innovation and economic growth while enabling families to live and work securely in a future-ready environment.
— By VisaVerge.com
