If you want to get residency in Dubai (Iqama) in 2026 and need assistance, we recommend you work with our local specialists. This article presents information about the main requirements to obtain such a status, which is why we invite you to read it before starting the application.
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Temporary residence permit types | For: – employment, – family, – domestic workers |
Time needed to obtain the temporary residence permit (approx.) | Around 3 days |
Temporary residence permit validity | 1, 2, 3, 5 or 10 years, depending on the purpose of the visa |
| Documents for obtaining temporary residence | – valid passport, – entry visa, – proof of sponsorship, – medical test, – health insurance, – marriage/birth certificates |
| Mandatory registrations with state authorities (i.e. with the population/municipality register) | No |
| Dependents can join the temporary permit holder (Yes/No) | Yes, under sponsorship |
| Temporary or permanent residency for investment purposes |
By starting a company or investing at least AED 10 million |
| Type of investments available for residency purposes | Investment in residential property, existing company, retirement plans |
| Minimum investment amount | AED 1 million for real estate purchase |
| Minimum temporary residence before applying for permanent residence | At least 2 years |
| Residency for individuals married to a citizen of UAE | Through sponsorship |
| Documents for obtaining permanent residence | – valid passport, – proof of temporary residence permit, entry visa, sponsorship |
| Naturalization requirements | – Arabic proficiency, – clear criminal record, – legal source of income |
| Citizenship after permanent residence | After living for 10 years in UAE |
| Assistance for obtaining Dubai residency | Yes |
Table of Contents
Who needs a residence permit in Dubai?
Any foreigner (GCC citizens not included) willing to relocate to Dubai for more than 3 months.
What types of residence permits are available in Dubai?
For:
- Work purposes,
- Business,
- Study,
- Freelancers,
- Retirees, etc.
What are the documents needed for a residence permit in Dubai?
- a valid passport;
- the property title of the acquired real estate, in certain cases, which is available in electronic form;
- a recent photograph;
- a copy of the latest entry visa for the UAE (if available)
- criminal record clearance issued by the police department in Dubai;
- a copy of the company’s business license.
Is a health policy needed for Iqama in Dubai?
Yes.
How do I obtain a work residency visa in Dubai?
- must secure/accept a job in Dubai,
- apply for an e-visa with the General Directorate of Residency & Foreign Affairs,
- pass a specific medical test,
- present the passport with at least 6 months’ validity,
- present educational documents/certificates attested by the UAE Embassy or Consulate from the country of origin.
NOTE! Work & residency visas are valid for 2-3 years. The costs for this permit are supported by the company hiring foreign staff and dealing with the immigration & relocation process.
Can family members join the residency application for Dubai?
Yes. Sponsorship is required.
What is the simplest way to get residency in Dubai in 2026?
Employment, starting a business, or buying a property in Dubai.
What is the minimum amount required to get residency by investment in Dubai in 2026?
AED 750,000.
Here is an infographic with details about residency in Dubai, also known as Iqama UAE:
What are the sponsorship categories for residence in Dubai?
- Dubai residents are financially supporting spouses and/or children,
- through business formation,
- company contract.
Is a golden visa available in Dubai?
Yes, this visa allows foreign citizens to live in Dubai for 10 years. This golden visa is the type of residency permit issued for:
- real estate investors,
- talented/skilled people,
- business managers, etc.
NOTE! Investments start at AED 2 million in the public sector and may reach AED 10 million for real estate investors willing to pursue long-term residency in Dubai. Foreign citizens who make exceptional contributions to environmental protection in Dubai can receive 10-year residency starting in 2026. This is called the Blue Residency permit.
What happens after the residency application is accepted?
The immigration authorities solicit biometric data to issue the Emirates ID, for which the residence visa stamping will be required.
How do I obtain a residence permit as a retiree in Dubai?
- must be at least 5 years old,
- invest in the real estate sector at least AED 1 million or have savings of this amount deposited in a bank in the UAE,
- provide a valid health policy and passport,
- provide bank statements,
- pass a medical test, etc.
NOTE! Foreign citizens retiring in Dubai can also prove they have a monthly income of at least AED 20,000 if the investment options above are not optimal.
How do I get residency in Dubai by starting a business?
- choose the proper business entity & location,
- register your company in mainland Dubai or free zones,
- obtain the business license,
- pass the medical test,
- make the required investments (starting from AED 2 million to AED 10 million).
What are the benefits of a residence permit in Dubai?
- no corporate or personal income tax in Dubai,
- can bring his/her family and act as sponsorship,
- high quality of life by accessing top healthcare services, education, etc.
Would you like to find out more details about how to get residency in Dubai in 2026? You may contact our Dubai specialists and ask for comprehensive information. You can also benefit from our tailored offers. We can also help you with company formation in Dubai.