The Golden Visa in Abu Dhabi offers a unique long‑term residency solution for investors, professionals, entrepreneurs, and talented individuals. Unlike standard short-term employment visas, it provides stability, independence and flexibility — allowing holders to live, work and invest in the Emirate without continuous employer sponsorship. For anyone seeking a secure base in the UAE, this visa offers a compelling path.
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At Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP, we combine deep legal expertise and on-the-ground regional insight to help applicants navigate the complexities of Golden Visa procedures and ensure smooth approval.
Who is Eligible: Key Categories for Golden Visa in Abu Dhabi
Eligibility for the Golden Visa depends on the category under which you apply. Broadly, the typical eligible categories include: investors, real-estate investors, entrepreneurs, highly skilled professionals (talents), and exceptional‑talent individuals (e.g., researchers, scientists, artists).
1. Investors and Real-Estate Investors
- Individuals who invest a substantial amount (commonly AED 2 million or more) in a company, fund, or real estate in Abu Dhabi.
- Real estate investors: purchasers of property meeting the minimum required value, when real estate qualifies under Golden Visa rules.
2. Entrepreneurs and Business Owners
- Founders or partners of companies who commit the required capital, or entrepreneurs with qualifying business activity as per UAE authorities. This route is designed for those willing to contribute to Abu Dhabi’s economy via business ventures or startups.
3. Skilled Professionals and Talents
- Professionals with in-demand skills, often supported by a valid employment contract, academic credentials, or sector-specific qualifications (e.g. medicine, engineering, sciences, technology).
- Exceptional individuals — such as researchers, scientists, artists, or other talents nominated by relevant UAE authorities — may qualify under the “Outstanding Talent” pathway.
Benefits of Holding a Golden Visa in Abu Dhabi
Holding a Golden Visa in Abu Dhabi offers many advantages that make it very attractive for investors, professionals, and families alike:
- Long‑term residency (typically 5 or 10 years, depending on category) with option to renew.
- Ability to sponsor spouse, children, and domestic workers — enabling stable family relocation.
- No need for a local sponsor or employer to stay or invest in the UAE — giving independence and flexibility for businesses and personal projects.
- Full control to establish or own 100% of a business in Abu Dhabi — favorable for entrepreneurs and investors.
- Access to UAE‑level stability: long-term planning, access to markets, quality of life, infrastructure — making the visa a strategic decision for long-term residents.
With Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP’s guidance, you benefit not just from legal documentation, but also strategic advice on investment structure, compliance, and long-term planning.
Step‑by‑Step: How to Apply for Abu Dhabi Golden Visa
Securing a Golden Visa in Abu Dhabi involves multiple steps. Our team at Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP ensures each stage is handled properly to maximize your chance of approval. Below is a typical process flow.
1. Verify Eligibility & Prepare Documents
- Determine which category applies to you (Investor, Entrepreneur, Skilled Professional, Talent).
- Gather necessary documentation: passport (valid at least 6 months), proof of investment or property, employment or business certificates, academic credentials (if required), medical insurance (UAE‑approved), passport‑size photo with white background.
- For real estate investors: ensure property valuation meets the minimum required threshold; have the Sales & Purchase Agreement (SPA) or title deeds ready.
- For professionals/talents: gather employment contract or proof of salary/business, academic certificates, and any other mandatory endorsements (if applicable).
2. Submit Application via Official Portal or Typing Centre
- Applications usually go through the authorized government portal (or through a registered typing centre in Abu Dhabi).
- Provide all required documents and pay the processing fees.
3. Medical Fitness Test & Insurance
- Undergo a mandatory medical test at a government‑approved medical centre.
- Ensure you have valid UAE-approved health insurance as required by authorities.
4. Biometrics & Emirates ID
- Once preliminaries are cleared, schedule biometric data collection (fingerprint, photo) at the designated centre. The Emirates ID application is done simultaneously.
5. Visa Issuance & Final Approval
- After biometrics and approvals, the visa is issued and residency permit (Golden Visa) becomes valid — often for 5 or 10 years depending on category.
- You receive your Emirates ID and visa documentation — authorizing full residency rights in Abu Dhabi.
6. Family Sponsorship (if applicable)
- If you plan to bring spouse, children or dependents, you can apply for their residency under your sponsorship. Additional fees will apply per dependent.
With Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP, we help prepare, review and submit every document — minimizing delays, ensuring compliance, and avoiding common mistakes.
What It Costs: Breakdown of Golden Visa Expenses in 2025
The total cost of a Golden Visa in Abu Dhabi varies depending on your visa category, the duration of residency, whether you include dependents, and additional processing requirements. Below is a typical cost breakdown (as of 2025) for standard applicants.
| Cost Component | Typical Range / Notes |
|---|---|
| Application & Processing | AED 2,800 – AED 4,500 depending on visa type and category. |
| Residency/Visa Issuance (5‑ or 10‑year) | AED 2,000 – AED 2,800 (varies by visa duration/type) |
| Medical Fitness Test | AED 300 – AED 1,000, depending on the clinic and test package. |
| Emirates ID Card | AED 575 – AED 1,150 for 5- or 10-year validity. |
| Health Insurance | Varies significantly depending on age, coverage and provider — often mandatory. |
| Document Attestation / Translation (if needed) | AED 100 – AED 600+ per document (e.g., degree attestation, contracts) |
| Additional Services (PRO, typing centre, expedited processing) | Varies — optional costs for convenience or handling documentation. |
Estimated Total (Single Applicant, Basic Category): Usually between AED 4,000 – AED 7,000 when covering visa fees, medical, Emirates ID, insurance and basic admin costs.
Note: These estimates exclude the capital for investment-based visas (e.g., AED 2 million real estate or business investment), which is the main financial commitment for those categories.
If you plan to sponsor family members or dependents, you should account for similar costs per additional person.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Applying for a Golden Visa can be complex. Common issues that applicants face include:
- Submitting incomplete or improperly attested documents (e.g., property deeds, degree certificates). Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP ensures all paperwork is correctly translated, attested and formatted.
- Real estate valuation not meeting the minimum threshold (for investor visas) — which can lead to application rejection. We advise on proper valuation reports and coordinate with developers or authorities when needed.
- Missing or invalid health insurance or medical fitness clearance. We guide clients to approved clinics and ensure timely medical exam scheduling.
- Incorrect visa category selection, leading to rejection. Our team assesses eligibility realistically and advises the best category per applicant’s profile.
- Delays due to document translation or attestation requirements. We manage the full end-to-end process to minimize turnaround time.
By partnering with Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP, many of these risks are mitigated — giving you peace of mind and significantly better chances of success.
Why Choose Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP
When it comes to navigating the Golden Visa process in Abu Dhabi, choosing the right legal partner is critical. Here is why Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP stands out:
- Global expertise, local insight: With experience across Dubai, United Kingdom, Singapore, Bangladesh, and UAE, we understand both international standards and regional regulatory specifics.
- Comprehensive support: From document preparation and attestation to submitting applications, scheduling biometrics, and follow-up — we handle every stage end-to-end.
- Tailored advice: We assess your profile (investment capacity, business plans, employment history, family needs) and recommend the best visa category for long-term success.
- Efficiency & compliance: Our team ensures all requirements — from medical insurance to Emirates ID, health checks to legal documentation — are met, reducing chances of rejection and delays.
- Commitment to results: We are focused on delivering exceptional outcomes for every client. Your residency, investment and future in Abu Dhabi matter to us.
With Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP, you don’t just get paperwork done — you get a solid foundation for long-term residency, business and life in the UAE.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long is the Golden Visa valid?
Golden Visa residency in Abu Dhabi is typically valid for 5 or 10 years depending on the visa category (investor, professional, talent). Upon expiry, it can be renewed if eligibility requirements remain fulfilled.
Can I sponsor my family (spouse, children) under Golden Visa?
Yes. Golden Visa holders can sponsor spouse, children, and dependents. Additional fees apply for each dependent.
Do I need a local employer or sponsor for a Golden Visa?
No. One of the main benefits of Golden Visa is independence. You don’t need a local employer or sponsor to hold or renew a Golden Visa — especially for investor and real-estate categories.
What happens if I apply through investment (real estate or business)?
If applying as an investor or real estate investor, you need to meet the minimum investment threshold (often AED 2 million or per relevant regulations). The capital investment is the main financial commitment — in addition to visa processing, medical, Emirates ID, and other fees.
How long does the application process take?
Typically, from document submission to visa issuance takes around 2 to 4 weeks for most applicants when all paperwork is complete. For investment-based applications or more complex cases, processing may take slightly longer.
Final Thoughts
For investors, entrepreneurs, professionals and families looking for long-term residency and stability in the UAE, the Golden Visa in Abu Dhabi represents an unmatched opportunity. It offers independence from conventional sponsorship, long-term security, and freedom to invest, live and build in one of the world’s most dynamic regions.
With the right legal partner — like Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP — the process becomes smoother, more secure, and far more likely to succeed. Our team’s expertise across international law and regional regulations ensures you get accurate guidance, efficient documentation, and reliable support at every stage.
If you’re considering applying for the Golden Visa in Abu Dhabi — whether as an investor, entrepreneur, or professional — now is a great time to start preparing.
Ready to take the next step?
Get in touch with Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP today. Let us assess your profile, prepare your documentation, and guide you through every step — from application to approval — so you can secure your Golden Visa with confidence.
Contact us now to begin your journey to long-term residency and success in Abu Dhabi.
E-mail: info@deweyleboeuf.com
Phone: +971 58 690 9684
Address: 26B Street, Mirdif, Dubai, UAE