A Guide to Abu Dhabi’s New Golden Quay Visa

Abu Dhabi has long been a beacon of opportunity for high-net-worth individuals and global citizens seeking a strategic base for their lives and wealth.  

It’s a place where ancient souks sit side by side with soaring skyscrapers, where world-class museums neighbour glitzy shopping centres, and an ultra-modern business culture coexists with a rich, ancient heritage.

Fortunately, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has made it relatively easy for entrepreneurs or investors to open a business or acquire a second residency, while offering some of the lowest taxes on the planet. 

The city’s growing appeal was underscored by Disney’s recent announcement that it will build its first-ever Middle East resort in Abu Dhabi.

The move by the global entertainment giant’s move is about more than simple expansion—it’s a strategic masterclass in corporate mobility and jurisdictional diversification.

In our deep dive into that Disneyland Abu Dhabi development, we explore what it means for global investors, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to go where they’re treated best.

Separately, Abu Dhabi has further raised the bar with its new Golden Quay Visa, a programme designed to break the traditional residency-by-investment mould.

What is the Golden Quay Visa?

The coveted golden visa residency programmes offered by select nations extend a welcoming hand to affluent people or those with exceptional talent, granting them a pathway to long-term residency – and often citizenship – in exchange for an investment or specialised skills. 

Abu Dhabi’s Golden Quay Visa, however, adds a unique twist to this concept.

It’s an initiative designed explicitly for superyacht owners, granting them a 10-year Abu Dhabi golden visa. 

This isn’t the regular golden visa that accepts applications from anyone who qualifies. 

Instead, the Golden Quay Visa is invitation-based. 

Abu Dhabi’s Superyacht Golden Visa Requirements

The Golden Quay Visa is meant for superyacht owners and key players within the yachting industry. Eligible people include:

• Yacht owners
• CEOs and major shareholders of prominent yacht-building companies
• Central yacht agents, yacht service providers and yacht insurance providers.

In terms of the key requirements that increase your likelihood of receiving an invitation, the most obvious is owning a superyacht. 

It must have a minimum length of 40 metres (131 feet), which limits the scheme to the ultra-luxury segment.

Applicants must also provide verifiable documentation confirming ownership of the qualifying vessel.

Along with proof of ownership, applicants will likely need to submit the standard documentation required for UAE residency. This may include a valid passport, photographs and potentially a health certificate.

Golden Quay Visa applications are processed through two official nominating entities, Yas Marina and the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO). 

These organisations vet applicants and check that they align with the programme’s objectives.

The Rise and Fall of Golden Visas 

Interest in golden visas has surged in recent years. 

Increased wealth mobility, coupled with a desire for greater investment opportunities and better tax benefits, has led wealthy people to seek alternative residency options. 

Golden visa schemes have given these people precisely what they need.

However, golden visa programmes haven’t escaped controversy. ‌

Concerns about potential abuse, security risks and their impact on local housing markets have led some nations to re-evaluate their offerings. 

‌Portugal, for instance, has scaled back its golden visa program, while Ireland has shut its version down entirely. Many others are considering following their example.

In this shifting landscape, the UAE’s new Quay initiative is a sign that innovation is still possible in the industry. 

Unlike some nations that have wavered in their commitment, the UAE is breathing new life into the golden visa industry, albeit for those who fall into the ultra-rich bracket. 

The Benefits of a UAE Golden Visa

Securing a UAE golden visa, especially through the exclusive Golden Quay programme, unlocks a treasure trove of benefits, including: 

• Long-Term Residency: Granted for a generous 10-year period, the UAE golden visa offers holders a place to call home for a substantial time. On top of that, the visa is renewable, allowing you to make your stay an indefinite one. 

• Family Sponsorship: Golden visas typically permit sponsorship of family members so that loved ones can share the advantages of residency.  

• Investment Opportunities: The UAE golden visa opens doors to a range of lucrative investment opportunities, particularly in the real estate sector. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious waterfront villa, a stylish city apartment or a prime commercial property, Abu Dhabi’s property market caters for all tastes. Furthermore, this visa makes it easier to establish a venture and grow your enterprise in a supportive business environment.

• Tax Benefits: Another major benefit of residence in Abu Dhabi is its tax regime. There’s no income, property or capital gains tax. In fact, the only tax you might pay is a 9% corporate tax. However, even that can be lowered to almost zero for certain types of business. 

World-Class City: Beyond the financial benefits, Abu Dhabi is a world-class city. From pristine marinas and championship golf courses to world-renowned attractions, there’s something to satisfy every passion. And for those who appreciate the finer things in life, Abu Dhabi’s high-end shopping scene rivals the best in the world.

UAE Golden Visa: FAQs

Looking for a Golden Visa?

Beyond the glamour, Abu Dhabi is a good choice for those seeking to diversify their assets, lower their taxes and secure a Plan B. 

Even if you are not a superyacht owner, you can still apply for a golden visa. 

You could also cast your net wider and explore  Europe’s many golden visa programs, each with unique advantages. 

For a deeper dive, see our article on Europe’s Highly Pursued EU Residence Programs, but bear in mind that navigating the complexities of residency programmes requires expert guidance. 

That’s where we come in. 

At Nomad Capitalist, we specialise in helping high-net-worth individuals find the ideal residency and citizenship solution. Reach out for a personalised consultation.