To maintain a valid resident visa you must enter UAE at least once every six months, otherwise the visa may be revoked.
Spouse and children under 18 can also get residency visa along with the main applicant.
In 2019, UAE implemented a new system for long term visas with 5 year and 10 year options. It is under the moniker Golden Visas
Ten year residency visa
UAE 5 Year Permanent Residence
Standard 2 years Residency Visa
A ten year residency visa is granted to the UAE, if you
Invest at least 10 million AED (USD 2.67 million approx), must be assets that are not
in form of a loan and are invested for at least 3 years.
with Specialised Talents - inventors with patents that bring value to Emirati
Economy, creatives in culture and the arts of scientists and doctors from top
Research institutions. Must have an employment contract in the UAE in a national
interest industry.
UAE 5 Year Permanent Residence Rules
Entrepreneurs - Project with approval from UAE based business incubator or already existing idea with at least 500,000 AED in Capital. Can include
i. Three executives
ii. A partner
iii. Spouse and children. Can also apply for a 6 month ME visa renewable.
Property Investors - invest in a property in UAE worth at least 5 million AED(approx 1.36 million USD),
i. Must hold onto property for at least three years
ii. Must not be in the form of a loan
You can qualify as an outstanding student if you meet the above criteria.
If you are a secondary student at either a state or private secondary school with an average of at least 95%.
If you are a university student either in the UAE or abroad with a cumulative Grade Point Average of 3.75 (on the 4.0 scale) upon graduation.
The visas for outstanding students include their family members.
Standard Residency Visa is for 2 years
There are different ways one can get Residency Visa
Entering into an employment contract from UAE BAsed company or Emirati government for which you will need a work visa
i. A two month entry permit will be given to you after employer completes the formalities of sponsorship.
ii. Entry permit can be subsequently converted into residence visa valid for two to three years.
Incorporating your own company in the UAE: An investment of approximately US$270,000 can ensure Residence Visa as an investor/shareholder. Must meet Economic Substance Regulations. Visa is valid for three years.
Studying in the UAE: You can gain a student visa for pursuing a course of study in the Emirates, that in the long run can be changed into residency Visa following employment contract or investment.
As a family member of a UAE resident or national: You can also gain residency in the UAE through this pathway
