The Easiest Ways to Become UAE Resident

Are you thinking of moving to the UAE? You’re not alone - and you’re definitely not too early. More and more people from the UK, USA, Europe, and across Asia are choosing Dubai and the UAE as their new home. And it’s easy to see why.

Whether you’re coming here to invest, relocate with your family, or enjoy a better lifestyle - the UAE offers you something that few countries can match:

Opportunity, stability, and safety.

From strong investment returns and zero income tax, to world-class healthcare, top-rated schools, and unmatched safety - life in the UAE is designed for growth and peace of mind.

And here’s the good news: Becoming a resident of the UAE is easier than you think.

At COFTT, we’ve helped thousands of individuals and families successfully move and settle in Dubai. Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, or simply want to live in a place with better weather and bigger dreams - we’ll help you find the right path.

In this article, we’ll explore every way you can become a resident of the UAE. We’ll break them down simply, so you can figure out what works best for you.

Let's get started!

1. Golden Visa - Get 10 Year Residency for Investors & Talents

The UAE Golden Visa is one of the most prestigious residency options available. It gives you 10 years of residency with the freedom to live, work, and invest in the UAE without needing a sponsor.

You may qualify if:

a. You earn over AED 30,000/month (as a professional)
b. You invest in real estate worth AED 2 million
c. You own or invest in a business
d. You’re a scientist, doctor, or outstanding talent in your field

And yes - your family gets Golden Visa benefits too.

Read our full Golden Visa guide here

2. Green Visa – 5 Year Residency for Freelancers & Property Investors

The Green Visa is ideal if you’re self-employed, working remotely, or investing in real estate.

You can get it if:

a. You’re a skilled employee earning AED 15,000/month or more
b. You’re a freelancer or digital consultant with proof of income
c. You’ve invested in property worth AED 1 million or more

The visa is valid for 5 years and doesn’t require a company or sponsor.

Read our full Green Visa guide here

3. Blue Visa – 10 Year Residency for Environmental Contributors

The Blue Visa is a new 10-year residency launched for individuals who’ve made exceptional contributions to environmental protection.

Eligible applicants include:

a. Researchers and scientists
b. Environmental consultants and NGO members
c. Climate advocates, innovators, and sustainability experts

If your work supports the UAE’s sustainability goals, this visa is designed for you.

Read our full Blue Visa guide here

4. Work Permit – Get UAE Residency Through Employment

If you’re planning to move to Dubai for a job, this is the most common option.
Your UAE employer will apply for your work permit, and once approved, you’ll get a 2-year residency visa tied to your employment contract.

Once you have this visa, you can sponsor your spouse and kids too.

‍

COFTT also helps companies with employee visa processing, renewals, and work permit documentation.

‍

5. Open a Company in Dubai – Get Fast, Affordable UAE Residency

One of the easiest and most popular ways to get UAE residency is to start your own company. Even a small consultancy or freelance setup qualifies you for:

a. A trade license
b. A 2-year investor visa
c. Full business and financial freedom

And yes, you can start this from anywhere in the world. You’ll only need to visit Dubai after your visa is approved for medicals and biometrics. The cost is much lower than most people expect.

‍

Reach out to COFTT - we’ll show you how to set up smart and fast. Also, read our detailed guide on how to open a company in Dubai, UAE.

‍

6. Remote Working Visa – Digital Nomad Residency

Got a remote job or freelance clients abroad?

The UAE’s Remote Work Visa lets you live in Dubai while working for your non-UAE employer. It’s perfect for digital nomads, remote employees, and freelancers with international clients.

Requirements:

a. Proof of remote job
b. Monthly income above $3,500 (USD)
c. Health insurance and valid passport

This visa is valid for 1 year and can be renewed.

7. Family Sponsorship – Bring Your Loved Ones to the UAE

If one of your family members is already a UAE resident, they can sponsor the rest of the family.

Who can sponsor?

a. Husband or wife
b. Parents or children
c. In some cases, even siblings and dependents

Your spouse can sponsor you and your children. It’s a great option for families looking to live together long-term.

8. Retirement Visa – For Those Aged 55+

Yes, the UAE welcomes retirees. If you're 55 or older, and meet financial requirements, you can apply for a 5-year renewable retirement visa.

You need to meet one of the following:

a. Own property worth AED 1 million
b. Have savings of AED 1 million
c. Or have monthly income of AED 20,000

It’s a great option if you want to enjoy your retirement in a safe, sunny, and tax-friendly country.

9. Investor Visa – Through Real Estate or Business

If you invest in real estate worth AED 750,000 or more (in some emirates) or launch your own company in Dubai, you qualify for a 2-year investor visa, renewable every cycle. It gives you full residency benefits, and you can sponsor your family too.

‍

At COFTT, we handle all investor visa applications, from property document clearance to visa approvals and renewals.

‍

10. Other UAE Residency Paths – Special Cases

There are other ways people can become residents too:

a. University students (through student visa)
b. Special talent visas in arts, media, culture
c. Dependent visas for elderly parents
d. Business incubator programs for startups

If your case doesn’t fall under the usual categories - talk to us. COFTT will help you find the best route based on your profile to get the UAE residency.

Which UAE Residency Option Is Right for You?

As you can see, the UAE offers a wide range of residency pathways, whether you’re coming here to work, invest, retire, or build something new.

At COFTT, we help you: Understand the best option based on your profile, prepare the documents, handle visa applications, government approvals, and legal steps and most importantly - settle in the UAE smoothly.

‍

If you’re ready to take the next step toward a better life in Dubai, reach out to us today. We’ll help you become a UAE resident, the smart and stress-free way. Reach out to us today through WhatsApp or email us at info@coftt.com