New Global Services for UAE Golden Visa Holders
Starting in 2026, UAE Golden Visa holders can access new worldwide services while outside the UAE. These include:
- humanitarian evacuation assistance;
- electronic return documents issued in cases of lost passports abroad;
- 24-hour emergency support;
- access to a dedicated global hotline;
- repatriation of remains.
The initiative is designed to ensure faster response in emergencies and improve the overall security and mobility of long-term residents. Authorities say the services reflect a broader effort to enhance the UAE’s value proposition for international investors and skilled professionals.
Other Changes to the Overall UAE Residency Framework
Alongside the new services for Golden Visa holders, the UAE has introduced four additional visa categories:
- visas for AI-specialists;
- entertainment visas for cultural, artistic, and tourism-related activities;
- event visas covering conferences, exhibitions, festivals, and different types of gatherings;
- maritime tourism visas for cruise passengers and leisure vessels.
Several existing visa categories have been revised to introduce stricter eligibility criteria and clearer rules. The changes affect such applicants as truck drivers, business explorers, and widows and divorcees previously married to UAE nationals or residents. Changes also expand humanitarian residency options and provisions for certain family situations.
Overall, the reform establishes a more structured and transparent framework, including unified rules for visa durations and approvals.
About the UAE Golden Visa
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residence programme that allows foreign investors, entrepreneurs, and qualified professionals to live and work in the country. The validity period depends on the investment volume.
A 10-year Golden Visa is granted to investors who purchase real estate worth at least AED 2 million, or approximately $545,000. A shorter-term, 2-year residence visa is available for property investments starting from AED 750,000, or around $204,000. Foreign investors seeking residence in Dubai or other emirates typically purchase property in designated freehold areas, where full ownership rights are permitted.
Golden Visa holders can sponsor family members, ease their tax burden, open international bank accounts, and overall benefit from living in the UAE, a stable country with a high level of healthcare and education.
