Can I Do Business with Golden Visa UAE?

Doing Business with a UAE Golden Visa

The UAE Golden Visa, launched in 2019, is a long-term residency program designed to attract foreign investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, and exceptional talents. It allows individuals to live, work, study, invest, and run businesses in the UAE without the need for a local sponsor. This program offers tremendous opportunities for business-minded individuals, providing a secure environment, tax incentives, and access to world-class infrastructure.

Can Golden Visa Holders Start a Business in the UAE?

Yes, Golden Visa holders can legally start and operate businesses in the UAE. The program encourages entrepreneurship by offering 100% foreign ownership in many sectors and removing the traditional requirement for a local Emirati sponsor. This flexibility allows Golden Visa holders to explore multiple business avenues and manage their operations freely.

Types of Businesses Allowed Under the UAE Golden Visa

1. Free Zone Company Setup

Free zones are ideal for entrepreneurs seeking full ownership, tax benefits, and simplified profit repatriation. Golden Visa holders can set up companies in free zones focused on:

• E-commerce
• IT and tech services
• Import-export
• Creative services

2. Mainland Business Setup

Golden Visa holders can also set up mainland companies, which allow unrestricted access to the UAE market and eligibility for government contracts. Mainland businesses benefit from:

• Full 100% foreign ownership
• Licensing under the Department of Economic Development (DED)
• No local sponsorship needed

3. Professional & Consultancy Services

Golden Visa holders often start consultancy or professional services firms in sectors such as:

• Legal and financial services
• Marketing and advertising
• Health tech and education consulting
• IT support and digital transformation

4. Real Estate Investment Business

Real estate remains a strong sector for Golden Visa holders. With a minimum investment of AED 2 million, individuals can:

• Purchase commercial or residential properties
• Start property management firms
• Engage in buy-to-let investment strategies

5. Franchise Investment

Golden Visa holders can invest in well-established franchise businesses across:

• F&B (food and beverage)
• Healthcare and wellness
• Education and training
• Retail and service chains

Types of UAE Golden Visas (2025 Edition)

1. Property Investor Golden Visa (10 Years)
   For individuals who invest in real estate worth AED 2 million or more. Off-plan, mortgage, and jointly owned properties may also qualify based on DLD valuation.
2. Public Investment Golden Visa
   Granted to investors who deposit or invest AED 2 million in approved UAE investment funds or government bonds (fixed-term deposit options also qualify).
3. Entrepreneur Golden Visa
   For business owners or startup founders with:
   • A project valued at AED 500,000+, or
   • Approval from a UAE-accredited business incubator
4. Specialized Talent Golden Visa
   Targeted at experts in fields such as:
   • Medicine, Science & Engineering
   • IT & AI
   • Law, Education, and Culture
   • Must have verified qualifications and professional licenses
5. Outstanding Student & Graduate Golden Visa
   For high-performing students from UAE-based or globally top-ranked universities. GPA thresholds typically apply (3.8+ in UAE).
6. Humanitarian Pioneers Golden Visa
   Granted to individuals who’ve made remarkable humanitarian contributions — such as aid workers, NGO leaders, or those recognized by global humanitarian organizations.
7. Creative Talent Golden Visa
   For artists, authors, performers, designers, filmmakers, and innovators in cultural sectors, with recognition from the UAE Ministry of Culture or similar authorities.
8. Doctors & Medical Professionals Golden Visa
   Requires:
   • Valid medical license
   • Professional experience
   • Approval from UAE health authorities (like DHA or MOHAP)
9. Scientists & Researchers Golden Visa
   Endorsed by the Emirates Scientists Council or Mohammed bin Rashid Academy of Scientists — must demonstrate impactful contributions in their field.
10. Athletes Golden Visa
    For sportspeople who have represented their country or achieved national/international recognition — must be endorsed by UAE Sports Councils.
11. Frontline Heroes Golden Visa
    Includes medical staff, pharmacists, and lab technicians who contributed significantly during crises like COVID-19, based on nomination.
12. Retirement Golden Visa (5 Years, Renewable)
    For individuals aged 55 and above, meeting one of the following:

• AED 1 million savings
• AED 20,000/month pension
• AED 2 million property in UAE

Eligibility Criteria for Business Golden Visa Applicants

To qualify for the Golden Visa under the business or investor category, you must meet at least one of the following requirements:

• Invest at least AED 2 million in real estate
• Start a new business or invest AED 2 million in an existing company
• Pay AED 250,000 or more in VAT annually as a registered UAE business
• Gain approval from a certified business incubator or regulatory authority

How to Start a Business on a Golden Visa: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Select Your Business Activity
   Choose your business type (e.g., consulting, tech, real estate) and ensure it complies with UAE regulations.
2. Pick a Jurisdiction
   Decide between a free zone (tax-efficient) or mainland (broad market access).
3. Register the Trade Name
   Choose a unique name and register it with the DED or relevant free zone authority.
4. Apply for a Trade License
   Submit all required documents and receive your official business license.
5. Open a Corporate Bank Account
   Set up a business account in a UAE bank for daily transactions.
6. Obtain Additional Permits (If Needed)
   Some sectors may require extra professional or activity-specific licenses.
7. Recruit Staff and Sponsor Visas
   Use your Golden Visa status to sponsor employees and family members.
8. Launch and Market Your Business
   Begin operations and leverage Dubai’s business ecosystem to grow your brand.

Tax Benefits for Golden Visa Entrepreneurs

• No Personal Income Tax: Individuals are not taxed on salaries or income.
• Corporate Tax: A 9% corporate tax applies only to businesses earning over AED 375,000 annually.
• VAT: A 5% Value Added Tax applies to most goods and services once a business meets the registration threshold.
• No Capital Gains Tax or Inheritance Tax

These incentives make the UAE a global hub for cost-effective and profitable entrepreneurship.

Key Benefits of Doing Business with a Golden Visa

• 100% Ownership: Full control of your business without needing a local partner
• Long-Term Residency: Up to 10 years of stability and renewability
• Nationwide Access: Operate freely across all emirates
• Family & Staff Sponsorship: Sponsor your spouse, children, parents, and employees
• Ease of Travel: Enjoy multiple entries and exits while maintaining UAE residency
• Top-Tier Infrastructure: Leverage cutting-edge infrastructure, logistics, and connectivity

Conclusion

The UAE Golden Visa is more than just a residency permit; it is a gateway to long-term entrepreneurial success. Whether you’re starting a digital agency, real estate firm, tech startup, or investing in franchises, the Golden Visa offers unmatched flexibility, legal security, and growth opportunities.

If you’re ready to explore business opportunities in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE, Property Visa Dubai powered by Brightlink Consulting is here to guide you through the entire process. Contact our experts today to get started with your business setup under the UAE Golden Visa program.