Looking to secure your future in the UAE as a manager, executive, or director?
You can get a UAE Golden Visa by meeting key 2025 criteria. This typically involves holding a managerial role (like CEO, General Manager, or Director), earning a minimum basic salary of AED 30,000 per month (this is a UAE Golden Visa new rule focusing on basic salary, not total), having at least two years of work experience with your current UAE employer, and possessing an attested bachelor’s degree (or higher). If your degree is from outside the UAE, you’ll need an MoE Equivalency Certificate from the Ministry of Education (MoE). You’ll also need a valid UAE employment contract. This long-term residency offers significant UAE Golden Visa benefits, providing stability and opportunity in one of the world’s most vibrant economies.

How To Get a Golden Visa for Managers, Executives & Directors in UAE 

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) serves as a beacon of global innovation, business, and talent. If you are a manager, executive, or director wanting to foster a permanent future in a fluid setting, the UAE Golden Visa is absolutely an opening. This unique residency scheme grants a prized 10-year residency unmatched by other countries, offering countless opportunities and advantages.  

The Golden Visa scheme, first inaugurated in 2019, is constantly evolving. Especially understanding the UAE Golden Visa regulations for 2025 is critical. This guide aims to provide step-by-step instructions for each requirement – including the coveted Golden Visa prerequisites and rigorous eligibility criteria, such as the discussed UAE Golden Visa salary brackets for manager positions – and all the exciting advantages that come with it. Now, let’s find out how to obtain this golden residency and discover the UAE.

What is the UAE Golden Visa for Managers and Executives?

As you may have already heard about the Golden Visa, let us clarify what exactly it entails. In very simple terms, it is a special permit allowing you to live, work and even prosper in the UAE. The UAE government initiated a long-term residency program to pull in and retain exceptional individuals from every part of the globe. This includes top-tier managers, seasoned executives, visionary entrepreneurs, adept investors, and many other exceptional talents. 

For high-level professionals, such as CEOs, General Managers, and company directors, the Golden Visa means an AED 10,000 Golden Visa. More often than not, the ten-year visa will be renewed automatically if the required conditions are still being met. One of the best parts? Unlike ordinary visas, it is not usually affiliated with a single employer. Automatic renewal is a huge incentive for certain professionals. Unlike other visas, Golden Visas are not typically bound to one employer, allowing greater flexibility for the applicant. The visa helps the UAE establish a strong economy by encouraging the best talent from all over the world. Due to this, applicants enjoy increased flexibility and security in regard to their employment and lifestyle in the UAE. The program started in 2019 and has had many updates. The 2025 framework clearly states conditions for many, especially salaried workers.

Why the UAE Golden Visa is a Game-Changer?

For managers and executive leaders, the UAE Golden Visa benefits are nothing short of remarkable. I think of it as much more than a visa; it serves as a cornerstone for achieving enduring success and a comfortable lifestyle.

1. Long-Term Stability and Security in a Dynamic Economy

Consider the relaxation that comes with not having to stress out about visa renewals every two to three years. The Golden Visa provides residency for 10 years, which is renewable. This lets you create career plans for future kids. You can also settle your family in one of the safest and most dynamic economies with complete confidence. That professional vision you have of making a significant impact in the UAE’s business growth surge becomes a reality with this long-term stability.

2. Enhanced Family Sponsorship Privileges

Your family matters, and the Golden Visa acknowledges this. As a holder, you may also sponsor your spouse, children (sons below 25, unmarried daughters of any age), and even your parents on a long-term residency visa. This provides access to the same security and the world-class education and healthcare systems of the UAE. Additionally, you may also sponsor an unlimited number of domestic helpers. One comforting benefit is that if a primary Golden Visa holder dies, family members can usually stay in the country until the visa expires.  

3. Unparalleled Business and Career Opportunities

The Golden Visa allows an enormous degree of flexibility in one’s career. They are at liberty to work for any company or even set up their own. A major advantage for CEOs, General Managers, and other senior executives is the allowance of up to 100% ownership of businesses set up on the UAE’s mainland as opposed to free zones. If one has long-term business plans, this is certainly a huge incentive.

If you’re thinking about Business Setup in the UAE, especially Company Formation in Dubai, the Golden Visa is a great option. It provides secure personal residency, which is a big advantage. A Business Setup Consultant in Dubai can not only assist you in setting up your economic venture but also guide you regarding the Golden Visa exploration. It gives you access to new regions where you can harness your entrepreneurial potential.

4. Financial Flexibility and Tax Advantages

In terms of the Dubai economy, the UAE is known to have incredible finances. Having a Golden Visa makes it possible to manage various accounts easily, as you can open multiple bank accounts. Also, the region does not incur a personal income tax – And here is the best advantage. This personally impacts, especially financially productive managers and executives seeking to optimize their resources. It is a major attraction for a lot of highly skilled professionals looking to move to the country.

5. Greater Travel Freedom

Do you often travel for business or fun? The travel prospects of the Golden Visa are remarkable. The Golden Visa is different from other residency visas. Many of those visas become invalid if you spend more than six months outside the UAE. But with the Golden Visa, you can stay abroad for long periods without losing your residency status.

This is ideal for global executives and those with international roles.

Key UAE Golden Visa Eligibility Criteria for Managers, Executives & Directors 

Now for the big question: “Do I qualify?” Understanding the UAE Golden Visa eligibility is crucial, especially with the UAE Golden Visa new rules for 2025. Let’s break down the requirements for managers, executives, and directors.

Skilled Professionals (Including Managers & Executives)

This is the most common route for salaried senior professionals. The UAE government, through bodies like the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE), classifies jobs into skill levels. Managers and executives typically fall under MoHRE Skill Levels 1 and 2. Here are the key criteria:

• Job Position: You must hold a recognized managerial role or executive position. Think CEO, General Manager, Director, department head, or similar senior management titles. Your employment contract will need to reflect this.
• Salary Requirement (Crucial 2025 Update): This is a big one. You need a minimum basic salary of AED 30,000 per month. It’s important to note this is basic salary, not including allowances. This directly addresses the ” golden visa uae 30,000 salary ” query and is a key part of the UAE Golden Visa salary requirement. This must be proven through an official Labour Contract and a salary certificate from your employer. Often, a 3-month bank statement or 6-month bank statement showing regular salary credit into your UAE bank account is also needed.
• Work Experience (Important 2025 Update): You generally need a minimum of 2 years of work experience with your current employer in the UAE. This demonstrates a level of commitment and stability in your current role.
• Educational Qualification: A Bachelor’s degree or a higher qualification (Master’s, PhD) is mandatory. Your degree certificate must be attested.
• MoE Equivalency Certificate: If your degree was awarded by a university outside the UAE, you MUST obtain an Equivalency Certificate from the UAE’s Ministry of Education (MoE). This confirms your degree is comparable to UAE standards from an accredited international institute.
• Valid Employment: You need a current and valid work contract with a UAE-based company. You should also have a valid UAE residence visa at the time you apply for the Golden Visa.
• Other Standard Requirements:
• You must have a clean criminal record.
• You need to pass a security clearance.
• You must pass a medical fitness test conducted in the UAE.
• You need Valid Medical Insurance.

This pathway is designed to attract experienced and well-compensated skilled professionals who contribute significantly to the UAE economy.

The “Executive Director” Category

There’s also a category specifically for ” Executive Directors ” listed by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP). The requirements for this seem distinct and potentially target a higher tier:

• Salary: A minimum monthly salary of AED 50,000.
• Experience: At least 5 years of experience in the same position.
• Education: A Bachelor’s degree is required (attested, with MoE Equivalency if foreign).

It’s worth noting that the AED 30,000 basic salary route for Skilled Professionals (which includes many managers and executives) is the more widely discussed updated pathway. However, if you meet the higher criteria for an Executive Director, this might be another option to explore. It’s always best to check the very latest details on the official ICP website or with a knowledgeable consultant.

What if You’re an Entrepreneurial Manager or Director?

Are you a manager or director who also has a significant business venture or substantial investments? While the salaried professional route is common, don’t forget the UAE offers Golden Visas to investors and entrepreneurs too.

• Investors: This could involve investing AED 2 million in a property (one single property, no clubbing multiple ones) or an approved investment fund.
• Entrepreneurs: If you own an economic project valued at AED 500,000 or meet specific criteria related to revenue or selling a previous startup, you might qualify. This can be particularly relevant if you’re involved in Company Formation in Dubai and your venture is taking off.

For senior professionals with an entrepreneurial streak, these routes offer an alternative path to long-term residency.

How to Apply for the UAE Golden Visa for Managers

Step 1: Pre-Assessment and Eligibility Verification – Know Before You Go

Make sure you meet all the conditions listed earlier in this article before working on the application. You must meet the UAE Golden Visa income criteria, which is AED 30,000. Also, your work experience matters. Additionally, you need to provide your education documents. If your degree is from abroad, make sure to have an MoE Equivalency Certificate from the Ministry of Education. Many individuals opt to hire Pro or consultancy services for initial checks. Our experts are more than able to conduct a Client Assessment and guide you through every step or offer a tailored service selection.

Step 2: Gather Your Arsenal – Preparing the Necessary Documents

This is an important step. You will require a specific set of documents (we’ll provide a list of them in the next section). Remember all of your Educational certificates are duly attested and if applicable, you possess an Equivalency Certificate from the Ministry of Education. Ensuring that all your documentation is prepared makes the entire process easier. This includes compiling documents, preparing documentation, and submitting the documents.  

Step 3: The Official Submission – Applying Through the Right Channels

When your documentation is complete, begin the steps for the application submission. You can apply online through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) at . You can also use the ICP UAE Smart app. If you are in Dubai, you can also apply at the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). Some applicants prefer to use a professional company or PRO service. This choice makes the application process easier.

Step 4: The Waiting Game (Not Too Long!) – Pre-Approval from Immigration

Once you’ve submitted your application, the relevant bodies will go through all the details. If all the requirements are adequately met, you might get what is commonly known as a “Pre-approval nomination approval EVISA.” That is something positive!  

Step 5: Health Check – The Mandatory Medical Test

Just like any other residency visa in the UAE, a Medical test at a designated medical facility is a requirement. This is to ensure that you are not a health risk to the country.  

Step 6: The Golden Stamp – Visa Issuing

After the medical examination and all the other formalities, the issuing of the Golden Visa starts! This involves a medical exam and completing other tasks. You need to change your status from the old visa to the new one. Then, stamp your passport.

Step 7: Making it Official – Emirates ID Biometrics and Issuance (EID Typing & Delivery)

In the end, you will need to obtain your Emirates ID. This requires EID Typing, where biometrics (e.g. fingerprints and photographs) are taken. Your Emirates ID is one of the most important cards in the UAE as it acts as an official permit of residency. After this, it will be delivered to you. The processing fees for the Emirate ID are usually included in the Emirates ID payment made earlier. 

Documents Required for the UAE Golden Visa (Managers & Executives)

Smoothly applying for the Golden Visa entails having all the relevant Documents Requirements in order. Here’s what managers and executives usually need:  

For the Main Applicant (Manager/Executive):

• Passport copy: Must be valid for at least six months.  
• Copy of current resident visa and Emirates ID: Only required if you are already a resident in UAE.  
• Personal photograph: Photograph taken recently, in passport size, with a plain white background.  
• Bachelor’s degree (or higher) attestation: A university degree certificate must be attested by relevant authorities like MOFA in your home country and UAE Embassy, then MOFA in the UAE.  
• Equivalency Certificate from MoE: Mandatory if the degree is obtained from a university out of the UAE. This attests that the degree is valid and equivalent to the educational capabilities of the UAE.  
• Labour Contract: An official contract from your employer based in the UAE that states your managerial role or executive position and includes a basic salary of at least AED 30,000 monthly. This document is part of your Valid Employment Contract.
• Salary certificate: This is an official document provided by your employer that verifies your monthly salary – this again highlights the stated basic salary of AED 30,000 or more.
• No Objection Certificate (NOC): This is a letter from your current employer stating that they have no objection to you pursuing the UAE Golden Visa.
• Latest 6-month bank statement: To demonstrate the monthly crediting of salary into your bank account within the UAE. Some sources claim a 3-month statement is sufficient, but 6 months is often the preferred choice.
• Valid Medical Insurance: You need to have medical insurance coverage in the UAE.
• Proof of 2 years of work experience with current employer (this may be fulfilled by your work contract’s documentation, visa stamps, or an HR letter).

For Sponsoring Dependents (Spouse, Children, Parents):

Upon receiving your Golden Visa, you are then able to sponsor other family members. Here’s what you will generally require for them:

• Passport copies of the dependents Must be valid for a minimum of six months.
• Personal photos of the dependents: Recent passport-sized.
• Attested marriage certificate: Required for your spouse’s sponsorship (and possibly translated into Arabic if it is not originally in Arabic/English).
• Attested birth certificates: Required for your children’s sponsorship (and possibly translated).
• Proof of relationship documents for parents (e.g. dependency affidavit, birth certificates verifying parentage).  
• Both copies of the Sponsor’s Emirates ID and Golden Visa.  
• Tenancy Contract (Ejari), which is proof of reasonable accommodation in the UAE.  
• Sponsor’s salary certificate.  
• Bank statement of the last three months: Generally, the most recent one or three-month bank statements are accepted.  
• Legal document translated into Arabic: This applies to any non-Arabic or non-English certificates.  
• Details of the sponsor’s UAE Pass are not always obtainable.  

Check the official ICP or GDRFA websites. The checklist for supporting documents may change. The authorities may ask for additional documents in some circumstances.

Understanding the UAE Golden Visa Salary Requirement and New Rules for 2025

The UAE Golden Visa new rules, especially around the UAE Golden Visa salary requirement, have been a hot topic. It’s vital for managers and executives to understand these changes for a successful application in 2025.

The Shift to AED 30,000 Basic Salary: What It Means for You

This is probably the most significant recent update. Previously, there was some flexibility, and the AED 30,000 monthly salary might have been considered as total salary (basic + allowances). However, the new, strictly enforced rule is that the AED 30,000 threshold is for your minimum basic salary only. Allowances no longer counted towards this primary requirement.

• What it means: Your official Labour Contract must clearly state a basic wage of AED 30,000 or more.
• Benefits of this clarity: This change removes ambiguity and makes the interpretation of salary much clearer. This helps in faster processing of Golden Visa applications because the eligibility is more straightforward.

The Two-Year Experience Rule with Current Employer: A Closer Look

Another key update for the “Skilled Professionals” route (which includes most managers and executives) is the requirement for a minimum of 2 years of work experience with your current employer in the UAE.

• What it means: This rule emphasizes job stability and commitment to your current role within the UAE. It’s not just about total years of experience anymore for this specific pathway, but about your recent, established employment.
• How it’s verified: This can typically be verified through your existing Labour Permit, visa history, and employment contract details.

Why the MoE Equivalency Certificate is Non-Negotiable

If you earned your Bachelor’s degree (or higher) from a university outside the UAE, getting an Equivalency Certificate from the UAE’s Ministry of Education (MoE) is a must.

• What it means: The MoE needs to confirm that your foreign degree is genuine and meets the UAE’s educational standards from an accredited international institute. This process involves submitting your attested educational degree, transcript (mark sheet), and possibly accreditation proof for your university.
• Importance: Without this Certificate of Recognition, your educational qualification might not be accepted for the Golden Visa application under the professional category.

Impact of These Changes: Attracting Top-Tier, Committed Talent

These UAE Golden Visa new rules aren’t just about making things stricter. They are part of the UAE’s broader strategy to attract and retain highly skilled, committed global talent. By setting a clear basic salary threshold and emphasizing recent work experience and verified qualifications, the UAE aims to bring in mid-career professionals, young professionals with strong career tracks, and specialists in high-demand fields. This contributes to the UAE’s vision for economic diversification, innovation, and sustainable growth, further enhancing the country’s status as a knowledge economy.

What if I’m Also Planning a Business Setup in the UAE?

This is where having a UAE Golden Visa can be even more beneficial for entrepreneurial managers, executives, or directors. If you’re planning a Business Setup in UAE, perhaps your own Company Formation in Dubai, the Golden Visa offers you personal long-term stability that isn’t solely tied to the sponsorship of your new company.

• Greater Freedom: As a Golden Visa holder, you can focus on your Business Setup in Dubai with the peace of mind that your personal residency is secure for 10 years. This is especially helpful during the initial stages of establishing an economic project.
• Credibility: Holding a Golden Visa can also add to your credibility as a serious long-term player in the UAE market.
• Holistic Support: Many individuals find it helpful to work with a Business Setup Consultant in Dubai. These consultants often provide a one-stop solution, assisting with the entire company formation UAE process – from licensing and registration to office space – and can simultaneously guide you on obtaining your Golden Visa. They understand how these two aspects can complement each other for long-term success in the UAE.

So, if you’re a senior executive with plans to launch your own venture or invest significantly, the Golden Visa can be a powerful enabler alongside your business setup efforts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Managers & Executives

Q1: Can I apply for the Golden Visa if my basic salary is just under AED 30,000?

A: Generally, the minimum basic salary requirement of AED 30,000 is strict for the Skilled Professionals category. It’s best to ensure your documented basic salary meets this threshold.

Q2: How long does the Golden Visa application process take for managerial positions?

A: The timeline can vary. After you submit the correct documents and get Pre-approval from Immigration, it may take a few weeks for the medicals, visa stamping, and Emirates ID process. Some service providers, like a competitor, say they can secure a Golden Visa in just 4 days after all initial approvals. However, this speed usually applies only to the final steps. Always check realistic timelines.

Q3: Can I switch jobs after getting the Golden Visa?

A: Yes! This is one of the major UAE Golden Visa benefits. Your Golden Visa isn’t linked to a specific employer. This means you can change jobs or start your own business without affecting your residency status.

Q4: What happens if my degree is not on the MoE’s accredited list for equivalency?

A: This can be a significant challenge. The MoE Equivalency Certificate is a key requirement. If your university or degree isn’t recognized, you may not qualify under the professional category. It’s crucial to verify this early on with the help of an educational consultant or a visa-specialized consultancy.

Q5: Are there any specific benefits for CEOs or General Managers under the Golden Visa?

A: In addition to standard perks like long-term security and Family Sponsorship, CEOs and top executives especially appreciate the chance for 100% business ownership in the UAE mainland. This offers them more freedom to handle both business and personal matters while ensuring long-term stability. The Travel Benefits are also a huge plus for those with global responsibilities.

Conclusion: Your Golden Future Awaits in the UAE

The UAE Golden Visa truly offers a golden opportunity for ambitious managers, executives, and directors who wish to build a prosperous future in the UAE, one of the world’s fastest-growing economies and most desirable places to live and work. With its promise of 10-year renewable residency, extensive UAE Golden Visa benefits for you and your family, and pathways to greater professional and financial freedom, it’s an unparalleled program.

Understanding and meeting the UAE Golden Visa eligibility criteria, especially the UAE Golden Visa new rules for 2025 like the AED 30,000 basic salary requirement, the 2-year work experience with current employer rule, and the mandatory MoE Equivalency Certificate, is the first crucial step. While the application process involves several stages and requires careful preparation of documents required, the rewards of long-term stability, security, and opportunity in this innovation ecosystem are well worth the effort.

Whether you’re leading a multinational team, driving a successful local enterprise, or even considering launching your own Business Setup in Dubai, the Golden Visa can be your key to unlocking your full potential in the UAE. Embrace the possibility, prepare diligently, and your golden future in this remarkable country awaits!