Dubai • Remote Residency

Dubai now welcomes remote professionals with the UAE Virtual Work Visa. Live in the city for one year, keep your job with a company outside the UAE, and enjoy safe neighborhoods, world-class internet, and easy travel. No local sponsor is required.

Stay length

12 months, renewable

Income needed

USD 3,500 per month

Sponsor

Not required

Apply via

GDRFAD, ICP, or AMER centers

What the programme offers

Residency in Dubai for one year with the option to renew.
Access to utilities, rentals, banking, and essential services.
Freedom to enter and exit Dubai while the visa is valid.
Ability to sponsor spouse and children, with schooling access for dependants.
Employment must remain with a non-UAE company. The visa does not permit local employment.

Who can apply

Professionals of any nationality working for a company outside the UAE.
A valid employment contract of at least one year or proof of ongoing remote engagement.
Minimum salary of USD 3,500 per month or equivalent.
Valid health insurance that covers the UAE.
Passport with at least six months of validity at the time of application.

Some applicants may be asked for extra documents depending on nationality and circumstances.

Costs you should expect

Applying from abroad

About USD 101 including VAT, base fee.

Applying in Dubai

About USD 334 via AMER centers, base fee.

Fees can change and extras may apply for dependants, document services, medical tests, and Emirates ID.

Documents checklist

Passport copy and a recent photo on a white background.
Employment contract or employer letter confirming remote work.
Proof of salary meeting the threshold, plus latest payslip.
Bank statements for the last six months.
Health insurance valid in the UAE for at least one year.

For family sponsorship, add marriage and birth certificates with required attestations.

How to apply

Prepare documents and ensure your insurance covers the UAE.
Apply online through GDRFAD Dubai or the federal ICP system if applying from abroad. If you are in Dubai, you can also apply at an AMER service center.
Pay the fees and upload scans in the required formats.
Wait for approval. Timelines vary based on nationality and volume.
Complete medical exam and biometrics after arrival or upon instruction.
Receive your residence visa and Emirates ID, then arrange housing, banking, and schooling if needed.

Tip: If you receive visa on arrival, you can enter Dubai, then finish the residence process through GDRFAD or AMER.

Why choose Dubai as your base

Fast internet, a large airport hub, and modern coworking spaces.
Low crime and high service standards for daily life.
Warm weather, beaches, and a global food and culture scene.
No personal income tax on foreign earned income.

Good to know: rules and fees may change. Always confirm the latest requirements on official GDRFAD, ICP, or AMER channels before you apply.

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