
21/03/2025
Official: Dubai Fountain to close for six months from 19 April
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Who can live in Dubai?
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Thinking about moving to the United Arab Emirates and want to know who can live in Dubai? Learn about visa requirements and residency rules to see if settling in this dynamic and safe hub is for you.
Dubai, part of the United Arab Emirates, has been attracting people from around the world for many years. Many dream of permanent residency in the UAE, access to lucrative job opportunities, and an unparalleled lifestyle amid futuristic skyscrapers.
Who can live in Dubai? If you're asking yourself this question, check out this guide, where we discuss the legal residency conditions in Dubai, types of visas, and key rules for foreigners.
Although Dubai welcomes many expatriates, who can settle in Dubai depends on the type of visa and the purpose of the stay. Several options are available: from short-term tourist stays, to work visas, and even investment visas that allow business operations in Dubai. Regardless of the chosen option, all residents must adhere to the residency rules for foreigners in the UAE, which should be reviewed carefully before moving.
Many foreigners start their journey in Dubai with a short-term tourist visit to see if the city meets their expectations. Obtaining a tourist visa is relatively simple – citizens of many countries receive it upon arrival at the airport. However, for long-term residency in Dubai, it's important to understand the different types of visas available.
For whom?
Individuals employed by companies registered in the UAE.
Benefits:
Application process:
The employer submits the required documents to the immigration office. Once approved, the employee can relocate to Dubai.
For whom?
Individuals wanting to start their own business or invest in real estate in the UAE.
Benefits:
Requirements:
For whom?
Applicants accepted into universities in Dubai (e.g., branches of renowned foreign universities).
Validity:
Requirements:
For whom?
Spouses, children, or parents of individuals already holding residency (work or investment) visas in the UAE.
Benefits:
Rules:
For whom?
Retirees aged 55 and above who meet financial criteria (e.g., a steady income or savings).
Duration:
Requirements:
For whom?
Benefits:
Requirements:
One of the most common questions is whether foreigners can live permanently in Dubai. The answer is yes, if they hold a long-term visa and renew it regularly. UAE visas for foreigners typically have an expiration date but allow long-term residency in Dubai as long as the necessary conditions are met (e.g., continued employment, business operations, or investment).
If you're wondering whether life in this extravagant city is for you, explore Dubai’s attractions and experiences first. Get to know the city from the inside before deciding whether you want a long-term stay in Dubai or just a short adventure.
What visas allow you to live in Dubai?
The most popular are: Dubai work visa, Dubai investment visa, Dubai student visa, Dubai family visa, Dubai retirement visa and freelancer visa. All of them differ in terms of duration and financial and legal criteria.
Each visa has different validity periods and financial/legal requirements.
The answer to who can live in Dubai? depends largely on the type of visa you apply for and your purpose of stay. Whether you dream of a career, real estate investment, studying at a prestigious university, or working as a freelancer, Dubai offers many legal pathways for residency. However, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with Dubai’s residency conditions in advance to avoid bureaucratic surprises and fully enjoy the opportunities in this city known for luxury, innovation, and safety.
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