Dubai updates visa rules to attract global workforce, flexible workers and investment

The United Arab Emirates has updated its visa rules, affecting work, investment and innovation, as the country looks to boost its competitive edge. The latest revision has seen the introduction of a five-year Green Visa, with skilled workers, the self-employed and investors set to benefit.

Shiraz Sethi, Regional Head of Employment at Dentons & Co, says there has been a push by the UAE government to ensure the employment landscape there is forever changing. He revealed remote and temporary work were requirements that needed to be addressed off the back of the pandemic. 

He told Euronews, “These were things that were not part of the UAE labour law previously and so this has really propelled the UAE as a place to work because it's giving people of all different backgrounds and diversities [the opportunity] to come in and work within the UAE.”

Previous renewals for working visas were needed every two to three years with a sponsor. This new five-year visa comes with more stability and flexibility, while at the same time creating a more competitive talent pool. Advantages include:

• Five-year self-sponsorship for eligible individuals

• Residency permits for children, spouse and immediate family members

• Sponsorship of male children up to the age of 25 and daughters regardless of age

• A six-month grace period to stay in the United Arab Emirates when or if the visa expires or is cancelled

The move comes as the country recently welcomed a 10-year Golden Visa for exceptional talent, investors, skilled workers and entrepreneurs. These new visa tracks are the biggest changes ever seen in the country’s immigration policy to date.

James Watfa, Managing Director of Executive Solutions, noted some of the skill sector shortages in the UAE