The UAE is broadening routes for long-term residence and specialised entry. The programme now highlights IT and AI specialists, engineers, teachers, healthcare professionals, scientists and creative professionals, alongside AI, events, entertainment and maritime-tourism entry categories. Eligibility still depends on the relevant authority and the applicant’s evidence.
A broader talent strategy
The expanded system gives more professional groups a potential route to live and work in the UAE for the long term. It is designed around recognised skills, achievements and sectors rather than a single occupation. A category name alone does not create entitlement: the applicant must meet the published requirements and receive approval.
Who may be considered for a Golden Visa
The highlighted groups include IT and AI specialists, engineers, teachers, healthcare professionals, scientists and people working in creative industries. Creators such as bloggers, YouTubers, TikTok and Instagram creators, photographers, filmmakers and writers may also use the relevant creator route, including the Creators HQ framework. Each route uses its own evidence and nomination process.
New specialised entry categories
The new entry routes named in the current programme are the AI Visa, Events Visa, Entertainment Visa and Maritime Tourism Visa. They address different reasons for coming to the UAE and should not be treated as interchangeable. The permitted duration, sponsor, documents and conditions must be checked for the selected category before travel.
Evidence remains decisive
A strong application explains the applicant’s role, qualifications and economic or creative contribution with current documents. Depending on the route, this may involve contracts, professional records, awards, publications, income evidence, nominations or a letter from a UAE entity. Do not submit the same evidence set for every category without checking the authority’s checklist.
Check the route before applying
We can coordinate a case review with vetted visa specialists and help organise the evidence for the appropriate route. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security or another designated authority processes applications and makes the decision. No adviser can guarantee approval or replace the official eligibility assessment.