United Arab Emirates: residency, citizenship, tax and living

The United Arab Emirates Golden Visa grants you long-term residency in the country after making a qualifying investment. You can invest in real estate, businesses, or innovative projects, and you can place bank deposits in local banks. The length of your residence permit will be either five or 10 years, depending on the investment option. The program is also open to individuals with recognised exceptional talent.

The bulk of the cost for the UAE Golden Visa program goes to the investment. The minimum investment for most pathways is USD 545,000. In addition to the investment, you will also have to cover costs specific to the investment type you choose, such as a Property Valuation Certificate if investing in real estate, and processing fees, medical examination fees, and health insurance.

Foreigners can become citizens of the United Arab Emirates; however, meeting the requirements can be challenging. A foreigner must be a resident of the country for at least 30 years to become eligible for naturalisation, and they also need to demonstrate fluent knowledge of the Arabic language. Applying for the Golden Visa might be a more practical way to secure long-term residency rights.

The United Arab Emirates is, to a large extent, a tax-free country. It doesn’t impose personal income tax on wages or most personal investment and real estate income. However, individuals who conduct a business activity in the country might be subject to a 9% corporate tax.