Remote Working Visas In Dubai
Dubai Remote Work Visa
Dubai first announced the initiative of issuing Remote Working Visas in October 2020 allowing entrepreneurs and employees who meet certain requirements to live and work in the UAE for at least a year and to enjoy the benefits of a UAE resident such as housing, banking, telecoms, education, and healthcare – to name a few.
With the United Arab Emirates ranked the second most resilient nation in COVID-19 response in global rankings, digital nomads, freelancers, and entrepreneurs have relocated to the UAE to enjoy its safe and quality living conditions and take advantage of its attractive business environment.
Not surprisingly, the combined effect of the pandemic and lower oil prices has resulted in a decrease in Dubai’s cost of living in 2021. Dubai ranked #23 in Mercer’s 26th annual Cost of Living Survey for 2020 (dropping two places from last year’s ranking), making living in Dubai more affordable than ever.
Dubai’s initiative coincides with the global shift in working patterns as more and more companies are slowly shifting to a remote working arrangement post-Covid.
Furthermore, it allows expats to come and live in Dubai without the risk of leaving their secure jobs abroad.
What are the Requirements for the Dubai Remote Work Visa?
- Physical Presence in the UAE at the time of application
- Passport with a minimum of 6 months validity
- For Entrepreneurs/Business Owners:
- Proof of Company ownership abroad for a minimum of one year;
- The average net monthly income is US$5,000 per month, and there are at least three (3) months of bank statements to illustrate this.
- For Employees:
- Proof of employment from a current employer with a contract of at least one-year validity;
- A minimum of US$5,000 per month net salary and the last three months’ bank statements to illustrate this.
- A valid Health insurance with UAE coverage
What are the timelines for the Dubai Remote Working Visa?
- Entry Permit– Approx. 5 business days
- Visa Status Change – 2 business days
- Medical & Emirates ID – 2 business days
- Residence Visa Processing – 5 business days
What are the approximate costs for the Dubai Remote Work Visa?
Government Fees – AED 2,300/USD 620
Processing Fees – AED 1,200/USD 330
Total Fees – AED 3,500/USD 950
If you own a company and want the remote work route, the sister site covers the UAE remote work visa for business owners and digital nomads in detail.
Dubai is a top contender for the best city to live in for expats with its quality, multicultural, and laid-back yet affordable living conditions. Dubai’s initiative reinforces its competitiveness as a global destination by providing a wide variety of investment opportunities and a diversity of lifestyle choices for expatriates – both residents and visitors over the coming years.
Thinking of moving to Dubai?
Our EZONE team can assist you with obtaining your Dubai Remote Work Visa, along with the visas of your dependents (if required).
Contact us for more information on how we can help you with setting up a company in Dubai and support your move to the UAE.
Remote workers who also want to take UAE clients should read how a freelance permit differs from a freelance visa.
Many remote workers also compare the cost of a freelance visa before choosing a route.
If you plan to work for UAE clients instead, the Dubai freelance visa is the closer route.
