Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development Clarifies Golden Visa Eligibility for Professionals

The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) has issued precise guidelines detailing the eligibility criteria for professionals applying for the 10-year Golden Visa in Abu Dhabi. This clarification aims to provide skilled workers with a clear understanding of the requirements.

Eligibility Criteria for Professionals

To qualify for the Golden Visa under the professional category, applicants must meet several key conditions:

• Occupational Level: Applicants must be employed in roles classified as Level 1 or Level 2 within the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) occupational framework. Level 1 encompasses managers and senior business executives, while Level 2 includes professionals in sciences, engineering, health, education, business and management, information technology, law, sociology, and culture.
• Educational Qualification: A minimum of a bachelor's degree or an equivalent recognised qualification is required.
• Minimum Salary: Applicants must earn a monthly salary of at least AED 30,000.
• Professional Licences: Professionals in regulated fields, such as physicians, pharmacists, and teachers, must hold a valid practising licence issued within the UAE.

This initiative by the UAE aims to attract and retain highly skilled talent across various sectors deemed vital for the nation's economic development. The Golden Visa offers extended residency on independent terms, removing the necessity for continuous employer sponsorship and enhancing professional stability for its holders. The outlined criteria are particularly beneficial for expatriate professionals in the UAE, offering a clear pathway to securing long-term residency.