Visit & tourism
Visit visas
Tourist and visit visas, with visa-on-arrival or exemptions for some nationalities.
Middle East · Country guide
United Arab Emirates
A major hub for international professionals, with employer-linked residence and long-term visa options.
- Capital
- Abu Dhabi
- Languages
- Arabic, English widely used
- Currency
- UAE dirham (AED)
- Pathways covered
- 5
Sample content — pending verification. This page shows the structure of a Visa & Beyond guide. General descriptions are for orientation only; specific rules, fees, costs and deadlines have deliberately not been filled in. Always use the official links on this page for current requirements.
Last reviewed . Immigration rules change often. This is general educational information, not legal or immigration advice, and Visa & Beyond is not affiliated with any government. Confirm everything on the official website before you apply. Disclaimer
Overview
The UAE is a federation of seven emirates. Visa and residence services are delivered federally through ICP and, in Dubai, through GDRFA. The official UAE Government portal gives a clear overview of visa types.
Rules and fees for residence and long-term visas have changed several times in recent years. Confirm details on the official portals.
Visa pathways
The main routes people research for United Arab Emirates. Names are given for orientation; read eligibility, fees and processing information on the official page.
Work
Employment residence visa
Usually arranged through your employer, linked to a work permit and Emirates ID.
Permanent residence
Golden Visa
A long-term residence visa for specific categories such as investors, professionals and outstanding students.
Work
Green Visa
A self-sponsored residence option for certain skilled employees, freelancers and investors.
Study
Student residence
Residence for students enrolled at recognised UAE institutions, often sponsored by the institution or family.
Work opportunities
Recruitment fraud targeting people seeking Gulf jobs is common. Legitimate employers generally arrange your work permit. Check offers carefully and never pay for a "guaranteed" visa. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) publishes official labour information.
Study opportunities
The UAE hosts local and international branch campuses. Confirm accreditation with the relevant UAE education authority before enrolling.
Estimated living costs
Living costs vary widely by city, household size and lifestyle. We have not yet published verified figures for this guide. When we do, each estimate will show its source and date. Use this list to plan the categories you will need to budget for.
Rent (shared or one-bedroom)Figure pending verification
Utilities & internetFigure pending verification
GroceriesFigure pending verification
Local transportFigure pending verification
Health insurance / healthcareFigure pending verification
Mobile phone planFigure pending verification
Initial set-up costs (deposit, furniture)Figure pending verification
Important requirements
Commonly requested across many visa types. The official document list for your specific visa always takes priority.
- A valid passport. Many countries require it to remain valid for a minimum period beyond your stay; check the exact rule for your visa.
- A completed application submitted through the official government portal or an authorised visa application centre.
- Evidence of the purpose of your stay, such as an offer letter, letter of admission, invitation or itinerary.
- Proof that you can support yourself financially, usually through bank statements, sponsorship letters or scholarship letters.
- Biometrics (fingerprints and photo), medical examinations or police certificates may be requested for some visa types.
- Payment of the official government fee. Fees are published on the official website and can change.
Official government resources
Official sources for United Arab Emirates
Life in United Arab Emirates
Expect high summer temperatures, a fast-paced work culture and a very international population. Housing costs vary greatly between and within emirates.
Keep reading
Essential guides
Budgeting for your first three months abroad
The costs people forget, how to build a simple relocation budget and why an emergency buffer matters.
Choosing a university abroad: questions to ask before you apply
Accreditation, total costs, visa eligibility and graduate outcomes. A clear framework for comparing international universities.
Finding legitimate jobs abroad: where to look and what to check
Official job portals, trusted job boards and the checks that separate genuine international employers from recruitment scams.
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