Complete Guide to Getting a UAE Golden Visa Through Business

Introduction

The UAE Golden Visa for entrepreneurs is a dream opportunity for business-minded people who want to live, work, and grow their business in the United Arab Emirates. This long-term residency program is designed to attract talented individuals, investors, and startup founders from around the world.

If you’re thinking about starting a company in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE, this blog is your step-by-step guide to getting a Golden Visa through business in the UAE.

What is the UAE Golden Visa?

1. The UAE Golden Visa allows business owners, investors, and professionals to live in the country for many years. Most visas expire in a few years, but the Golden Visa allows a stay of up to 10 years and can be renewed. Started in 2019, It was designed to help the UAE develop by welcoming international talent and business investors.

Who Can Apply for the Golden Visa?

There are different categories, but this blog focuses on how to apply for UAE Golden Visa as an entrepreneur or business owner.

You may be eligible if you:

• Have a startup or established business in the UAE

·       A recognized incubator in the UAE must approve your startup idea

·       Have invested a substantial amount in a company based in the UAE

• Have a successful track record as a business founder

Golden Visa Benefits for Entrepreneurs

Let’s look at why this visa is so attractive:

• 10-year renewable residency
• No need for a local sponsor
• Full business ownership in most zones
• Easier access to banking and financial services
• Ability to sponsor family members and employees
• Live and work across the UAE without any limitations.

·       Enjoy premium healthcare, high-quality education, and advanced infrastructure.

·       Ultimately, the Golden Visa helps business owners feel secure about their future in the UAE.

Is it necessary to set up a business to qualify for the Golden Visa in Dubai?

Yes — if you are applying through the entrepreneur route, business setup is mandatory for the Golden Visa. You must either:

·       Be the owner of an established business in the UAE, or

• Start a new business by registering with a free zone or mainland authority

There are also startup incubator programs in the UAE that support new founders and help them qualify.

 

Golden Visa Investment Options

Here are some common Golden Visa investment options for entrepreneurs:

1.   Open a business in the UAE with the required starting capital

2.    Invest in a well-established company in the UAE

3. Partner with a UAE-based business
4. Submit a business idea approved by an official business incubator like Hub71 or Dubai Future Foundation

To approve the visa, the UAE government evaluates the business’s economic benefits, new ideas, and sustainability efforts.

Cost of Getting a UAE Golden Visa Through Company Formation

The full cost of getting a UAE Golden Visa by starting a company depends on different factors:

Expense Type	Estimated Cost (AED)
Company Registration	10,000 – 25,000
Trade License Fee	7,000 – 15,000
Visa Application	4,000 – 5,000
Medical Test & Emirates ID	1,000 – 1,500
Legal & PRO Services (optional)	2,000 – 5,000

So in total, you may spend anywhere between 20,000 to 40,000 AED, depending on your business type and location.

Step-by-Step Process to Obtain the Golden Visa Through Business in the UAE

Let’s break down the full process:

Step 1: Choose Business Activity & Structure

Decide what kind of business you want to open — trading, services, tech, food, etc. Then choose whether to register in a free zone or as a mainland company.

Step 2: Register Your Business

Submit your trade license application and officially register your business name. Submit all required documents like passport, photos, and business plan.

Step 3: Open a Business Bank Account

This is needed to show your financial activity and investment. Choose a local UAE bank that supports new businesses.

Step 4: Apply for the Golden Visa

After your company is active, you can apply for the Golden Visa through the official immigration portal or through trusted service providers like IRHA Businessmen Services.

Step 5: Submit Required Documents

Documents usually include:

• Passport copy
• Trade license
• Bank statements
• Business ownership proof
• Emirates ID (if available)
• Medical fitness certificate

Step 6: Receive Your Visa

Once approved, you’ll receive a 10-year residency visa, which can also cover your family and key employees.

Dubai Entrepreneur Visa vs Investor Visa

People often confuse these two. Here’s a quick comparison:

Criteria	Entrepreneur Visa	Investor Visa
For startup founders	✅ Yes	❌ Mostly for investors only
Need to set up business	✅ Required	✅ Required
Investment amount	Medium (50K–500K AED)	Higher (1M+ AED)
Sponsored by incubators	✅ Optional	❌ Not needed

So, if you’re a business owner or startup founder, the Dubai Entrepreneur Visa under the Golden Visa program is made for you.

Can a Foreigner Get UAE Residency for Business Owners?

Absolutely! One of the biggest advantages of the Golden Visa is that foreigners can get UAE residency by starting or owning a business.

Whether you are from India, Pakistan, the UK, or any other country — as long as your business is registered in the UAE and meets the eligibility criteria, you can apply.

FAQs

Q: Is a sponsor required to get the UAE Golden Visa?

Ans: No, the Golden Visa allows you to be self-sponsored.

Q: How long does the process take?

Ans: Usually between 2 to 4 weeks, depending on document approvals and visa processing.

Q: Can I sponsor my family?

Ans: Yes! The visa lets you sponsor your spouse, children, and even domestic staff.

Q: Is it better to set up in Free Zone or Mainland?

Ans: It depends. Free zones are great for 100% foreign ownership and fewer restrictions, while mainland offers more flexibility with local trade.

Conclusion

The UAE Golden Visa for entrepreneurs is more than just a visa — it's an opportunity to build a future in one of the world's fastest-growing economies. With benefits like 10-year residency, full business ownership, and global connectivity, it’s no surprise that thousands of business owners are choosing Dubai and the UAE.

If you're serious about making it happen, partner with professionals like IRHA Businessmen Services, who can guide you from company formation to visa approval — all in one place.