The UAE Visa Regulations: What They Signify For Expats

Posted on 10 October 2022

​There has never been a more favourable time for anyone living abroad to contemplate finding job in the UAE. Because of the United Arab Emirates' visa requirements, relocating to Abu Dhabi or Dubai opens up a vast number of new doors for living and working options than ever before.

The UAE has officially begun issuing 10-year resident visas as of 2019. This government programme, along with numerous others like it, is part of a new drive to attract and keep qualified professionals in the UAE.

Huge investments made in the tourist, banking, and construction industries have resulted in positive economic growth for the region and have sparked an undertone of confidence among executives of businesses. The booming culture of startups has also assisted in driving expansion even further, which has fueled an intense desire for talented individuals.

In addition to this, there is a continued strong need for qualified expats in the region of the UAE, which is why recruiting continues to be a priority for UAE company leaders. This is notably true in the legal, accounting, and technological fields as well as in the business world. The new visa requirements present an enticing opportunity for expat professionals working in these industries who have been thinking about the possibility of coming to the UAE.

New UAE visa requirements for foreign nationals

100% foreign ownership: Up until the middle of 2019, foreign investors were only allowed to control 49% of a firm registered in the UAE. However, as a result of government changes, 100% ownership is now permissible across 13 industries in an effort to promote greater investment. This specific endeavour has already shown to be effective, as seen by Uber's recent acquisition of UAE competitor Careem and Amazon's takeover of Souq.com, both of which are competitors in the same market. Those in the professional world who are contemplating a move to the UAE might be surprised to learn that their present workplace offers a greater number of chances for internal relocation.

Freehold ownership of land and properties: A new freehold law has been enacted in Abu Dhabi, allowing international investors to acquire property inside specified investment zones. Prior to the introduction of this law, only UAE and GCC residents were permitted to own property within these zones. By recent royal decree, a regulation was changed in order to facilitate efforts to encourage big corporations to open headquarters inside the region. It is possible that this may result in an increase in the number of permanent jobs that are secure and long-term that are available to expats through their present companies.

10-year residency UAE visa: The UAE created the 10-year residence visa in order to supply some expats with additional long-term residency possibilities. The application process for a visa to the United Arab Emirates known as the "golden card" is available to investors, entrepreneurs, chief executives, scientists, and excellent students. Because of the release of this new UAE visa application, expatriates in the region now have the opportunity to look forward to a job that is more stable and long-term. For applicants to get the new card, which may be renewed on an ongoing basis, the United Arab Emirates visa criteria must first be satisfied.

Considering your professional options in the UAE?

If you are considering moving to the United Arab Emirates, you may learn more about the visa requirements for the UAE by visiting the Emirates website and submitting the necessary information about yourself, here.

You may go through our most recent job openings in the UAE, upload your resume, or speak with one of our specialists right now if you want to get an idea of what opportunities are available.

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