The digital nomad lifestyle has become increasingly popular, with over 35 million people embracing this in 2023 across the world. These remote workers are free from traditional office constraints, traveling the globe and contributing around $787 billion to the global economy each year.
The UAE, a leading country in the Middle East, has recognized the value of digital nomads since March 2021. The Dubai digital nomad visa allows remote workers to live in this vibrant city for up to a year, with the option to extend their stay by reapplying.
In this article, we cover all the important aspects of a digital nomad visa in Dubai, including its benefits, requirements, cost, and the due process to obtain it. If you are interested in applying for the Dubai digital nomad visa, Our business consultants will assist you in completing the process to provide more benefits to you and your business.
What Is a Digital Nomad Visa In Dubai?
Since Dubai introduced a new visa program for digital nomads in 2021, the UAE is ranked 4th globally for being welcoming to remote workers. A digital nomad visa gives remote employees temporary residency in the country. These visas usually last for at least a year and can be renewed.
To qualify for this visa, you must work remotely. This means you can be an employee, run your own business, or freelance with clients located outside of the UAE. However, you cannot look for local employment while on this visa.
This visa is ideal for those who prefer not to relocate every few months. It allows them to stay in one place longer and truly experience the local culture.
Benefits of Dubai Digital Nomad Visa:
The following are the benefits of getting a Dubai digital nomad visa:
1. One-Year Residency
You can live and work in the UAE for one year with a Dubai digital nomad visa. The visa can be renewed once it expires.
2. No Nationality Restrictions
Anyone from anywhere can apply for a Dubai digital nomad visa, no matter their nationality.
3. Tax Exemptions
The Dubai digital nomad visa holders do not pay personal taxes in the UAE, including personal income tax and capital gains tax. However, they are still liable for taxes in their home countries.
4. Family Sponsorship
The Dubai digital nomad visa holders can bring their family members to the UAE by sponsoring them.
5. High-Quality Healthcare
The digital nomads will have access to Dubai’s high-class healthcare services.
6. Resident Benefits
If you are a resident of the UAE on a digital nomad visa, you can rent homes and cars and use local telecommunication and banking services.
7. Education for Children
The digital nomads can enroll their kids in schools in the UAE.
8. Travel Flexibility
You can leave and enter the UAE as needed. Just remember not to stay outside the country for more than six consecutive months, or you risk losing your visa.
Dubai Digital Nomad Visa Requirements:
The following are the requirements that you need to fulfill if you want to apply for a Dubai digital nomad visa:
1. Valid Passport
If you are applying for the Dubai digital nomad visa, your passport must be valid for at least six months when you apply.
2. Remote Work
You have to prove your remote work outside the UAE. You must work for a company, own a business, or freelance for clients outside the UAE. You need proof of employment or business ownership for at least one year.
For Remote Employees: You must have a labor contract with your employer that has been active for at least one year.
For Business Owners: You need to prove that you have owned your business for at least one year.
3. Minimum Income
You must earn at least $3,500 per month.
4. Tourist Insurance
You must have a tourist premium insurance policy that is valid for one year upon arrival in Dubai.
5. Local Health Insurance
After receiving your Emirates ID, you must obtain health insurance from a local UAE company. This policy must provide coverage within the UAE.
These requirements help ensure that applicants are financially secure and have access to healthcare while living in Dubai under the visa program for digital nomads.
Digital Nomad Visa Dubai Cost:
The total cost for the Dubai digital nomad visa is AED 2,243.89 (about $611). This amount covers the application fee, various processing charges, and the UAE ID fee. However, the service fees may change based on the information provided in the application form.
Required Documents For Digital Nomad Visa:
You have to gather and submit the following documents for the Digital Nomad Visa In Dubai:
- A passport that is valid for at least six months
- A visa application form
- A digital photo (45mm x 35mm)
- Proof of accommodation, such as a hotel booking
- Evidence of employment or business ownership
- Health insurance
- Bank statements showing your income for the last three months
- A salary slip from the last month
How To Obtain A Digital Nomad Visa In UAE?
To apply for a Dubai digital nomad visa, you must submit your application online through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai (GDRFA) portal. The following is the step-by-step process:
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
The first step is to prepare the necessary documents listed above, as they are the prerequisite for applying for the Dubai Digital Nomad Visa. You need to confirm that all the documents are in English and digital format.
Step 2: Visit the Official Website
In the second step, you need to visit the official GDRFA website. Here, you need to create an account on the GDRFA portal. After successful registration, you can submit your application. Fill out a short form with your basic details, such as your name, email, country, and phone number.
Step 3: Wait For Official Response
After submitting your application on the GDRFA portal, you will receive an email with further instructions.
Step 4: Submit Your Documents
Following the email, you are required to send the required documents to [email protected]. These documents are explained in detail above. Dubai Tourism will review your documents.
Step 5: Payment Instructions
After reviewing your documents, you will receive an email with details about the payment and the fee for the digital nomad visa in Dubai.
Step 6: Pay the Fees
In this step, you need to pay the fee for the digital nomad visa in Dubai. The total cost for the Dubai digital nomad visa is AED2,243.89 (around $611) in total. This includes an application fee of $287 along with other charges, medical insurance, and the Emirates ID.
Step 7: Wait For Approval
After submitting your application and paying the fee, the next step is to wait for it to be processed. You will receive a confirmation email once the processing is complete. This process can take between 30 to 60 days.
Step 8: Go to Dubai
Once your application is approved, you can travel to Dubai with your digital nomad visa.
Step 9: Schedule a Medical Visit
When you arrive in Dubai, it is important to complete a mandatory medical check within your first month of staying. You can arrange this appointment either before or after arriving in Dubai.
Step 10: Visit the Biometrics Office
After receiving your medical results, you will get a list of offices where you can complete the biometrics process. Print out your medical results and application form to take with you.
Step 11: Get Your Passport Stamped
After biometrics, you will receive a call informing you to bring your passport for stamping, which takes about a day.
Step 12: Receive Your Residency Card
In the end, you will get an SMS from the government when your residency card is ready at a post office. With this residency card, you can live in Dubai for a year on a digital nomad visa. Additionally, You can apply to open a resident bank account to conduct international transactions from the UAE.
Minimum Salary Requirements For Digital Nomad Visa
To qualify for the digital nomad visa, applicants must have a minimum monthly income of $3,500. This requirement applies to both employees and business owners. You can demonstrate your income by providing bank statements from the last three months.
How Can We Help You?
Dubai has become a top destination for digital nomads and remote workers, offering a luxury lifestyle and a strong global network. Its tax-free income policy is a major attraction for many looking to work remotely. However, applying for the Dubai digital nomad visa process can be complex and challenging without expert guidance.
One solution to deal with all the complexities of getting a digital nomad visa is to get expert guidance from Now Consultant. Our team of experts is here to guide you through every step of the application process.
We ensure you meet all the criteria and requirements needed to obtain your digital nomad visa in Dubai. Our specialists handle all legal procedures, making the process smooth and compliant with local regulations.
