Abu Dhabi expands Golden Visa eligibility for diverse talent

Abu Dhabi has released the full eligibility criteria for its 10-year Golden Visa programme, a long-term residency permit that does not require a local sponsor. The scheme is designed to attract diverse foreign talent to the emirate to support economic diversification.

Eligible categories include investors, entrepreneurs, brilliant talents, scientists, outstanding students, pioneers of humanitarian work, and frontline workers. This broad scope allows professionals, such as those from Ghana, to seek an alternative to standard work visas that are typically tied to specific employers.

Originally launched in 2019, the UAE Golden Visa programme has expanded its reach over time. In 2020, eligibility was extended to include exceptional sporting talent, attracting high-profile international footballers to the region. The programme aims to bolster sectors such as technology, tourism, and professional sports while reducing reliance on oil.