Are you an entrepreneur looking to start or grow your business in the UAE? The UAE presents excellent opportunities for business professionals from around the world. Two popular visa options are the Golden Visa and the Investor Visa. They both allow you to live and work in the UAE, but there are some differences. In this blog, we will explain what each visa is, its requirements, benefits, and which one might be better for you as an entrepreneur in 2025. We will use simple words to make it easy to understand.
What is the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residence visa. It allows foreign individuals to live, work, or study in the UAE for 5 or 10 years. It began in 2019 to attract bright and talented individuals, including investors and entrepreneurs. You do not need a local sponsor, which makes it easy for business owners.
Requirements for Entrepreneurs
To get a Golden Visa as an entrepreneur, you need to meet these rules in 2025:
- Own a startup or business project worth at least AED 500,000 (about $136,000).
- Obtain approval from a UAE business incubator or relevant authority that confirms your idea is innovative.
- For investors, invest a minimum of AED 2 million in a property, business, or fund.
- Have health insurance and pass a medical check.
- Provide documents like your passport, photos, and proof of your investment or project.
The visa lasts 5 years for entrepreneurs with startups, or 10 years for bigger investors.
Benefits
- You can bring your family (spouse, kids, and even parents in some cases).
- No need to live in the UAE all the time – you can travel freely.
- Own 100% of your business in most areas.
- Gain access to UAE banks, schools, and healthcare facilities.
- It remains renewable as long as you continue to meet the rules.
- Tax-free income and a safe place to live.
How to Apply
- Check your eligibility on the official UAE website.
- Gather your relevant papers, such as investment proof or a business plan.
- Apply online through the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship) portal.
- Pay fees (around AED 4,000 to 5,000 for application and issuance).
- Get a medical test and an Emirates ID. It takes about 30 days to get approved.
What is the UAE Investor Visa?
The Investor Visa is a shorter residence visa for individuals who invest in the UAE, typically in property or a business. It is also called the Property Investor Visa in places like Dubai. It lasts 2 or 3 years, depending on the emirate. This visa is suitable for smaller investments compared to the Golden Visa.
Requirements for Entrepreneurs
- Invest in property worth at least AED 750,000 (about $204,000). You can use a mortgage if you have paid at least 50%.
- For business investors, own a company with capital of at least AED 1 million in some cases.
- Provide title deed or business license, passport, photos, health insurance.
- Pass a medical exam and get security clearance.
It is easier to get if you buy property in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
Benefits
- Live and work in the UAE without a job sponsor.
- Bring your family (spouse and kids under 18).
- Open bank accounts and get driving license.
- Access to good schools and hospitals.
- Renewable as long as you own the investment.
- Lower cost to start compared to Golden Visa.
How to Apply
- Buy the property or set up the business.
- Get documents ready, like title deed.
- Apply through the land department (like Dubai Land Department) or ICP.
- Pay fees (about AED 2,000 to 3,000).
- Do medical test and get visa stamped. It is faster, often done in 1-2 weeks.
Key Differences: Golden Visa vs. Investor Visa
Here is a simple table to compare the two visas:
| Feature | Golden Visa | Investor Visa |
| Duration | 5 or 10 years | 2 or 3 years |
| Minimum Investment | AED 500,000 (entrepreneur) or AED 2M (investor) | AED 750,000 (property) |
| Family Sponsorship | Yes, including parents sometimes | Yes, spouse and kids |
| Renewal | Easy if rules met | Yes, if investment kept |
| Sponsor Needed | No | No |
| Best For | Long-term stay, big plans | Short-term, smaller budget |
| Cost of Application | Higher (AED 4,000+) | Lower (AED 2,000+) |
From the table, you can see the Golden Visa is for longer stays and bigger investments, while the Investor Visa is quicker and cheaper for starters.
Which One is Best for Entrepreneurs?
It depends on your goals and budget.
- Choose the Golden Visa if you wish to reside in the UAE on a long-term basis. It is great for entrepreneurs with innovative ideas or big investments. You get more time to build your business without worrying about renewals soon. Plus, it looks good for attracting partners or funding. If your startup is in tech or worth AED 500,000, this is a good fit.
- Go for the Investor Visa if you are testing the market with a smaller investment, like buying a home or starting small. It is easier to get and costs less at first. You can upgrade to Golden later if things go well.
In 2025, with UAE’s growth in tech and business, both are good. But for serious entrepreneurs, the Golden Visa gives more freedom and status.
Final Thoughts
The UAE is a top destination for entrepreneurs due to its tax-free environment, safe cities, and streamlined business setup process. Whether you pick the Golden Visa or Investor Visa, you can succeed here. But make sure to check the latest rules, as they can change.
If you need help with your visa or business setup in the UAE, contact Gulf Core Services. We offer expert advice on visas, company formation, and more.
