The UAE is a premier destination for digital nomads and remote workers, ranking 2nd globally in the 2025 VisaGuide Digital Nomad Visa Index. With world-class infrastructure, zero personal income tax, ultra-fast 5G internet, and the dedicated Virtual Working Programme (digital nomad visa), the UAE offers an exceptional environment for remote professionals. Dubai and Abu Dhabi feature numerous coworking spaces, a thriving expat community of over 200 nationalities, and exceptional safety standards. The Golden Visa programme provides 10-year residency for investors and skilled professionals, while the Green Visa offers 5-year self-sponsored residency for freelancers.
10
Visa Types
184
Nationalities visa-free
🪪Your Passport:
Visa requirements vary by nationality
🎫 Available Visa Types
⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Tourist
Visa-Free Entry (90 Days)
Citizens of EU/Schengen countries and select other nations receive automatic 90-day multiple-entry visa on arrival, valid within 180-day period.
90 days
Duration
AED 0
— fee
+AED 500 additional
✅ Key Benefits
✓Free entry with no advance arrangements
✓Multiple entries allowed within 180-day period
✓No sponsorship required
✓Can work remotely for foreign employers (gray area)
✓Access to all UAE emirates
📋 Requirements (4)
•Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
•Return or onward ticket
•Proof of accommodation
•Sufficient funds for stay
📝 Application Process
Embassy Required⏱ Instant on arrival
1Arrive at any UAE airport or land border
2Proceed to immigration counter
3Present valid passport
4Receive entry stamp with 90-day multiple-entry visa
•Track your days carefully using the official GDRFA 90/180 Visa Calculator
•Keep proof of accommodation and funds ready for immigration
•Consider travel insurance for medical coverage
•Apply for digital nomad visa if planning longer stay
⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Special Program
Virtual Working Programme (Digital Nomad Visa)
One-year renewable residence visa for remote workers employed by foreign companies or running businesses registered outside UAE. Includes Emirates ID and full residency benefits.
365 days
Duration
AED 2,468
— fee
+AED 3,500 additional
💰 Income Requirement
Minimum $3,500/per_month
Alternative: Business owners must show average monthly income of USD 3,500-5,000 with bank statements from last 3 months
✅ Key Benefits
✓Full UAE residency status for one year
✓Emirates ID for banking and services
✓Can rent property and sign contracts
✓Open UAE bank account
✓Sponsor spouse and children
✓No UAE income tax on foreign earnings
✓Access to UAE healthcare (with insurance)
✓Unlimited entries and exits
📋 Requirements (7)
•Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
•Proof of employment with foreign company (1-year contract minimum)
•Proof of monthly income of at least USD 3,500
•Last 3 months bank statements
•Health insurance valid in UAE
•Passport-sized photograph
•Proof of accommodation in UAE
📝 Application Process
✓ Online Application⏱ 5-7 business days for initial approval
1Create account on GDRFAD portal (gdrfad.gov.ae)
2Select Virtual Working Programme application
3Upload all required documents
4Pay application fees
5Receive entry permit (if applying from outside UAE)
6Enter UAE and complete medical examination
7Submit biometrics for Emirates ID
8Receive residence visa stamp and Emirates ID card
•Apply from within UAE on tourist visa for easier process
•Budget USD 1,400-2,000 total for first year costs
•Use Wise or similar for easy income proof
•Consider Dubai Marina or JLT for nomad-friendly neighborhoods
⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Special Program
Golden Visa (10 Years)
Long-term 10-year renewable residence visa for investors, entrepreneurs, specialized talents, researchers, and exceptional professionals. Self-sponsored with no employer requirement.
3650 days
Duration
AED 5,950
— fee
+AED 2,003,000 additional
💰 Income Requirement
Minimum $30,000/per_month
Alternative: Can qualify through real estate investment (AED 2 million minimum), public investment (AED 2 million deposit), or entrepreneurship (AED 500,000 project value)
✅ Key Benefits
✓10-year renewable residence without employer sponsor
✓Sponsor spouse and children regardless of age
✓Sponsor unlimited domestic helpers
✓Stay outside UAE for any duration without losing visa
✓Family can stay until permit end if primary holder passes away
✓100% business ownership in mainland
✓Access to extended consular services abroad
📋 Requirements (8)
•Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
•Proof of qualifying criteria (investment, salary, talent)
•Real estate investment is most straightforward path
•Skilled professionals need AED 30,000 basic salary (not total package)
•Start document attestation early as it takes time
•Golden Visa offers best long-term stability in UAE
⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Work
Green Visa (5 Years)
Five-year self-sponsored residence visa for skilled employees, freelancers, and investors. No employer sponsorship required, offering independence and flexibility.
1825 days
Duration
AED 1,570
— fee
+AED 9,500 additional
💰 Income Requirement
Minimum $15,000/per_month
Alternative: Freelancers need AED 360,000 annual income proof or financial solvency documentation
✅ Key Benefits
✓5-year self-sponsored residence
✓No employer sponsorship required
✓Sponsor spouse, children (sons up to 25), and parents
✓180-day grace period after visa expires or cancellation
✓Freedom to change employers or work independently
✓Full access to UAE services and banking
📋 Requirements (8)
•Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
•For freelancers: MOHRE freelance permit
•For freelancers: bachelor's degree or specialized diploma
•For freelancers: proof of AED 360,000 annual income (last 2 years)
•For skilled employees: valid employment contract
•For skilled employees: occupational classification (Level 1, 2, or 3)
•Extended grace period gives time to find new opportunities
•Can upgrade to Golden Visa if meeting criteria later
Visa-Free Entry (30 Days)
TouristPopular
Citizens of select countries receive automatic 30-day visa on arrival with 10-day grace period for extension.
30d
Duration
AED 0
— fee
+AED 900 additional
📍Apply: On Arrival
⏱Instant on arrival
🔄Extendable +30d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
AEDUSD
Required
Visa feeFree visa on arrival for eligible nationalities
AED 0—
Additional (estimated)
Visa extension (30 days)Extension fee if needed
AED 600—
Travel insuranceRecommended coverage
AED 300—
Required Total
AED 0—
+ Additional (estimated)
AED 900—
Estimated Total
AED 900—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.
📋 Requirements
•Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
•Return or onward ticket
•Proof of accommodation
•Sufficient funds for stay
📝 Application Steps
1Arrive at any UAE airport or land border
2Proceed to immigration counter
3Present valid passport
4Receive entry stamp with 30-day visa
5No forms or fees required
⚠️ Restrictions
•Cannot work for UAE employers
•Maximum 90 days total with extensions
•Must have return ticket
💡 Tips
•Apply for extension before visa expires to avoid fines
•Consider digital nomad visa for longer stays
•Keep sufficient funds proof ready
Tourist Visa (Pre-arranged)
TouristPopular
Pre-arranged tourist visa for nationals requiring visa before travel. Available in 30, 60, and 90-day options through airlines, hotels, or travel agents.
30d
Duration
AED 300
— fee
+AED 1,700 additional
📍Apply: Online
⏱3-5 business days
🔄Extendable +30d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
AEDUSD
Required
30-day single entry visaBasic tourist visa fee
AED 300—
Additional (estimated)
60-day visa upgradeFor longer stay
AED 500—
90-day visa upgradeMaximum tourist duration
AED 800—
Travel insuranceRecommended coverage
AED 400—
Required Total
AED 300—
+ Additional (estimated)
AED 1,700—
Estimated Total
AED 2,000—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.
📋 Requirements
•Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
•Passport-sized color photograph
•Confirmed return ticket
•Hotel booking or proof of accommodation
•Bank statements showing sufficient funds
•Visa application form
📝 Application Steps
1Choose a UAE-based sponsor (airline, hotel, travel agent)
2Submit application online through sponsor
3Upload required documents including passport copy and photo
4Pay visa fees
5Receive e-visa by email within 3-5 business days
6Print visa for travel
⚠️ Restrictions
•Cannot work for UAE employers
•Requires sponsor in UAE
•Must have confirmed return ticket
💡 Tips
•Apply through Emirates or Etihad airlines for convenience
•Book refundable accommodation for visa application
•Keep printed copy of e-visa for travel
Employment Visa
WorkPopular
Standard work visa sponsored by UAE employer. Valid for 2-3 years depending on contract. Required for all foreign nationals working for UAE-based companies.
730d
Duration
AED 2,130
— fee
+AED 750 additional
📍Apply: Online
⏱2-4 weeks total processing
🔄No extension
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
AEDUSD
Required
Work permit feeBase MOHRE fee
AED 200—
Entry permitIf applying from outside UAE
AED 500—
Medical examinationRequired health screening
AED 500—
Emirates IDBiometric ID card
AED 370—
Residence visa stampingVisa stamp in passport
AED 560—
Additional (estimated)
Attestation feesDegree attestation if required
AED 750—
Required Total
AED 2,130—
+ Additional (estimated)
AED 750—
Estimated Total
AED 2,880—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.
📋 Requirements
•Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
•Job offer from UAE-registered company
•Employment contract
•Educational certificates (attested for skilled positions)
•Passport-sized photographs
•Medical fitness certificate
•Health insurance from employer
📝 Application Steps
1Receive job offer and sign employment contract
2Employer applies for work permit through TASHEEL
3Receive entry permit (if outside UAE)
4Enter UAE within 60 days of permit issuance
5Complete medical examination
6Submit biometrics for Emirates ID
7Receive residence visa stamp in passport
8Collect Emirates ID card
⚠️ Restrictions
•Tied to sponsoring employer
•Must obtain NOC to change employers
•Visa cancelled if employment ends
•30-day grace period after cancellation
💡 Tips
•Ensure employer handles all visa costs (legally required)
•Understand your labor rights under UAE law
•Keep copies of all employment documents
•Know your end-of-service benefits entitlements
Freelancer Visa (Free Zone)
WorkPopular
Residence visa for self-employed professionals and freelancers through UAE free zones. Includes freelance permit allowing legal independent work.
365d
Duration
AED 10,370
— fee
+AED 17,000 additional
📍Apply: Online
⏱2-4 weeks
🔄No extension
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
AEDUSD
Required
Freelance permit (1 year)Varies by free zone, starts from AED 7,500
AED 7,500—
Residence visaVisa processing fees
AED 2,000—
Medical examinationRequired health screening
AED 500—
Emirates IDBiometric ID card
AED 370—
Additional (estimated)
2-year package upgradeExtended permit validity
AED 15,000—
Health insurance (annual)Mandatory coverage
AED 2,000—
Required Total
AED 10,370—
+ Additional (estimated)
AED 17,000—
Estimated Total
AED 27,370—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.
📋 Requirements
•Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
•Portfolio or CV demonstrating expertise
•Relevant qualifications or work experience
•Health insurance valid in UAE
•Passport-sized photographs
•NOC if converting from employment visa
📝 Application Steps
1Choose free zone based on profession and budget
2Apply for freelance permit through free zone portal
3Submit required documents and portfolio
4Pay permit and visa fees
5Complete medical examination
6Submit biometrics for Emirates ID
7Receive freelance permit and residence visa
⚠️ Restrictions
•Limited to activities covered by permit
•Cannot work for UAE employers directly
•Annual renewal costs
•Must maintain free zone compliance
💡 Tips
•Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) offers affordable packages from AED 5,500
•Dubai offers more premium free zones with higher costs
•Consider Green Visa for 5-year stability
•Free zone choice affects business activities allowed
Student Visa
Education
Residence visa for students enrolled in UAE educational institutions. Valid for duration of studies with part-time work permitted.
365d
Duration
AED 1,370
— fee
+AED 1,500 additional
📍Apply: Online
⏱2-3 weeks
🔄No extension
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
AEDUSD
Required
Student visa feeGovernment processing fee
AED 500—
Medical examinationRequired health screening
AED 500—
Emirates IDBiometric ID card
AED 370—
Additional (estimated)
Health insurance (annual)Often provided by institution
AED 1,500—
Required Total
AED 1,370—
+ Additional (estimated)
AED 1,500—
Estimated Total
AED 2,870—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.
📋 Requirements
•Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
•Acceptance letter from UAE institution
•Proof of tuition payment or scholarship
•Academic transcripts and certificates
•Health insurance valid in UAE
•Passport-sized photographs
•Proof of funds for living expenses
📝 Application Steps
1Receive acceptance from UAE educational institution
2Institution sponsors student visa application
3Submit required documents through institution
4Pay visa fees
5Complete medical examination
6Submit biometrics for Emirates ID
7Receive student residence visa
⚠️ Restrictions
•Tied to educational institution
•Must maintain enrollment status
•Work hours limited during studies
💡 Tips
•Outstanding students may qualify for Golden Visa (95%+ score)
•Consider graduate visa options for post-study stay
•UAE universities offer good path to employment
Transit Visa (96 Hours)
Tourist
Short-term visa for travelers transiting through UAE airports. Available through airlines for layovers.
4d
Duration
AED 200
— fee
📍Apply: Online
⏱24-48 hours
🔄No extension
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
AEDUSD
Required
Transit visa feeThrough airline
AED 200—
Required Total
AED 200—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.
📋 Requirements
•Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
•Confirmed onward flight within 96 hours
•Emirates or Etihad ticket through UAE
📝 Application Steps
1Book flight through Emirates or Etihad
2Apply for transit visa through airline website
3Receive visa by email
4Present visa at UAE immigration
⚠️ Restrictions
•Maximum 96 hours only
•Must have onward flight
•Only available through certain airlines
💡 Tips
•Great for exploring Dubai during long layovers
•Book hotel near airport for convenience
•Allow time for immigration at both entry and exit
Yes! The UAE offers the Virtual Working Programme (also called the Remote Work Visa or Digital Nomad Visa), which allows remote workers and entrepreneurs to live in Dubai or Abu Dhabi while working for foreign companies or running businesses registered outside the UAE. The visa is valid for one year, renewable, and requires a minimum monthly income of USD 3,500. It provides full residency benefits including Emirates ID, ability to open bank accounts, rent property, and sponsor family members. The UAE ranks 2nd globally for digital nomads according to the 2025 VisaGuide Digital Nomad Visa Index.
Can I work remotely in the UAE on a tourist visa?
Working remotely for foreign employers while on a tourist visa exists in a legal gray area in the UAE. While many digital nomads do work remotely during short tourist stays without issue, it is technically not covered by tourist visa terms. For stays longer than 90 days or for full legal compliance, the Virtual Working Programme (digital nomad visa) is recommended as it explicitly permits remote work for foreign employers and provides residency benefits. The digital nomad visa costs approximately USD 1,400-2,000 total for the first year.
How long can I stay in the UAE as a tourist?
Tourist stay duration depends on your nationality. Citizens of EU/Schengen countries, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, Singapore, Brazil, and several other countries receive 90-day multiple-entry visas on arrival (valid within 180-day period). Some nationalities like Mexico get 180 days. Others receive 30-day visas with 10-day grace period, extendable twice for 30 days each. Nationalities requiring pre-arranged visas can obtain 30, 60, or 90-day tourist visas through airlines, hotels, or travel agents.
What is the UAE Golden Visa and how do I qualify?
The Golden Visa is a 10-year renewable residence visa offering long-term stability in the UAE. You can qualify through: real estate investment (minimum AED 2 million), public investment (AED 2 million bank deposit), entrepreneurship (AED 500,000 project value), or as a skilled professional earning AED 30,000+ basic monthly salary with 2+ years at current employer and an accredited bachelor's degree. Golden Visa holders can sponsor family members regardless of age, stay outside UAE without losing residency, and enjoy extended consular services abroad.
What is the Green Visa and how is it different from Golden Visa?
The Green Visa is a 5-year self-sponsored residence visa for skilled professionals, freelancers, and investors. Unlike the Golden Visa (10 years), the Green Visa has lower requirements: freelancers need AED 360,000 annual income and a MOHRE freelance permit; skilled employees need AED 15,000 monthly salary and occupational classification (Level 1-3). The Green Visa offers 180-day grace period after cancellation (vs 30 days for standard visas) and allows sponsoring family including sons up to age 25. Total cost is approximately AED 5,260.
Do I have to pay taxes on income earned in the UAE?
The UAE has no personal income tax, making it highly attractive for remote workers and professionals. Income earned while living in the UAE is not taxed locally, whether from local or foreign sources. However, you may still have tax obligations in your home country depending on tax residency rules. To become a UAE tax resident, you generally need to stay in the country for 183+ days per year and may need to apply for a UAE Tax Residency Certificate. Corporate tax of 9% was introduced in 2023 but only for businesses with profits exceeding AED 375,000.
How is the internet infrastructure in the UAE for remote work?
The UAE has world-class internet infrastructure, ranking among the top countries globally for connectivity. Dubai averages 424 Mbps download speeds. 5G coverage is extensive across Dubai and Abu Dhabi, ensuring seamless connectivity for video calls and large file transfers. Providers include Etisalat and Du, with home internet costing AED 300-400 per month. Numerous coworking spaces offer high-speed internet in areas like Dubai Marina, Business Bay, JLT, and DIFC. The UAE was ranked 2nd globally for digital nomads in 2025 partly due to its exceptional internet infrastructure.
Can I open a bank account in the UAE as a foreigner?
Yes, but with different options based on residency status. Residents with Emirates ID can open full current accounts with major banks like Emirates NBD, ADCB, or Mashreq Bank. Non-residents can only open savings accounts, require an in-person visit, and often face minimum balance requirements of AED 25,000-100,000. Digital banks like Wise and Revolut offer alternatives for non-residents. Documentation typically includes passport, proof of address, bank reference letter, and proof of income. Banking difficulty is rated 'moderate' for foreigners.
What is the cost of living in the UAE for digital nomads?
Cost of living varies significantly by emirate and lifestyle. Dubai is most expensive with monthly expenses of AED 7,300+ (USD 2,000+) for a single person including rent. Rent for a 1-bedroom in Dubai city center averages AED 6,400/month (USD 1,740). More affordable options include Sharjah (30-50% cheaper) and Ajman. Typical monthly budget: rent AED 4,000-8,000, utilities AED 500-800, food AED 1,500-2,500, transport AED 500-1,000, internet AED 350. Popular digital nomad areas include Dubai Marina, JLT, and Business Bay.
Is the UAE safe for travelers and digital nomads?
The UAE is considered one of the safest countries in the world, with Abu Dhabi recently named the world's safest city. The US State Department rates UAE at Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution) primarily due to regional tensions rather than local crime. Violent crime is extremely rare, and petty crime is low. The UAE has strict laws on social behavior, drug possession, and public conduct that must be respected. Solo female travelers report feeling very safe. Emergency services are responsive and healthcare is world-class. Digital nomads benefit from the safe, clean, and well-organized environment.
⚠️
Important Disclaimer
Visa requirements can change frequently. This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or immigration authorities before making travel plans. Last updated: December 1, 2025