Golden Visa enquiries have not slowed down during the current regional tensions — they have accelerated. Visa consultants and service centres across the UAE report steady and, in some cases, increased demand from property owners, high-earning professionals, and entrepreneurs seeking long-term residency.
Rather than pulling out, applicants are fast-tracking their applications. That tells a different story from the one some international media outlets have been reporting.
Why Are People Applying for the Golden Visa During a Crisis?
Since late February 2026, Iran has launched missile and drone attacks on several Gulf countries, including the UAE. While some international coverage has portrayed scenes of panic and residents leaving, the reality on the ground tells a different story.
Visa consultants say applicants are proceeding with Golden Visa applications at a steady pace — and some are even requesting fast-tracked processing.
Firosekhan, Managing Director of Arabian Business Centre, confirmed this directly: “Even during this situation, we are receiving many enquiries for Golden Visa applications under the property and salary categories.”
He added: “One of my clients who had been planning to apply approached us to fast-track his application. This reflects how people have great confidence in the UAE and its leadership.”
Which Golden Visa Categories Are Seeing the Most Demand?
Three categories dominate current enquiries:
Property investors — Owners of UAE property valued at AED 2 million or above are applying at a notable rate. Thani B Mubarak, managing director of a service centre in DAFZA, explained the significance: “The Golden Visa is linked to the property. If the property is sold, the visa must be cancelled first. So if people are applying through property, it shows they do not plan to sell anytime soon.”
High-salary professionals — Residents earning more than Dh30,000 per month are also exploring the programme. This salary threshold is one of the key eligibility criteria for the 10-year residency permit.
Business owners and entrepreneurs — Those running businesses in the UAE are applying to secure their long-term status, reinforcing their commitment to the country’s economy.
Mubarak noted that existing Golden Visa holders are also applying for family members: “Some residents who already have the Golden Visa are now applying for their family members. Some of them have big families of four or more.”
What Does This Say About Investor Confidence in the UAE?
The timing of these applications is what stands out most. Mubarak put it plainly: “You might expect people to wait for things to cool down, but instead they are proceeding with their applications.”
He also shared a personal observation: “I have non-Emirati friends who are high-net-worth individuals, some with $100 million or even billions, and whether they made their money here or run businesses abroad, they are all staying and have no plans to leave.”
This sentiment matches what Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed recently expressed when he visited injured residents in Sharjah, calling expatriates “our own” and “extended family” — a message that has resonated deeply with the resident community.
The Dubai property market remains active, with property-linked Golden Visa applications suggesting investors see their UAE assets as long-term holdings rather than short-term speculation.
How Does the Golden Visa Protect Residents During Uncertain Times?
The Golden Visa offers several advantages that become particularly valuable during periods of regional instability:
Self-sponsored status — Unlike standard work visas, the Golden Visa does not depend on an employer. If you lose your job, your residency remains intact.
Extended absence flexibility — Holders can stay outside the UAE for more than six months without their visa being cancelled. Standard residence permits are voided after six months abroad.
Family security — Golden Visa holders can sponsor spouses and children. If the primary holder passes away, sponsored family members retain residency for the remaining visa duration.
10-year renewable term — The visa is renewable indefinitely, provided holders continue meeting eligibility criteria. This creates what amounts to permanent residency.
For professionals considering their options, the Green Visa offers a five-year self-sponsored alternative for skilled workers earning Dh15,000 or more monthly.
What Are the Current Golden Visa Eligibility Requirements?
The programme has expanded significantly in 2025, with new categories including nurses, teachers, content creators, e-sports professionals, and yacht owners. The main pathways remain:
- Property investors — Minimum AED 2 million investment in UAE real estate
- Salary-based applicants — Minimum Dh30,000 basic monthly salary, bachelor’s degree, and Level 1 or 2 occupational classification
- Entrepreneurs — Business owners meeting capital and revenue thresholds
- Specialists and professionals — Including doctors, engineers, scientists, and executives
- Outstanding students — High-achieving graduates with 3.75+ GPA
For a complete breakdown of requirements and the application process, see our UAE Golden Visa Guide 2025. If your application has been rejected previously, review the common rejection reasons before reapplying.
Key Takeaway
Despite regional tensions, Golden Visa demand in the UAE remains strong — with property investors, high-salary professionals, and business owners fast-tracking applications rather than waiting. Visa consultants report steady and increasing enquiries, reflecting deep confidence in the country’s stability, leadership, and long-term economic outlook. This trend signals that the UAE’s resident and investor community is staying put.
FAQ
Can I still apply for a UAE Golden Visa during the current crisis?
Yes. Visa service centres and GDRFA offices continue processing Golden Visa applications as normal. Consultants report no disruption to processing times, and some applicants are actively fast-tracking their submissions.
What is the minimum property value for a Golden Visa?
You need to own UAE property valued at AED 2 million or more. The property must be fully owned — not mortgaged below the threshold. If the property is sold, the Golden Visa must be cancelled first.
Do I lose my Golden Visa if I leave the UAE during the crisis?
No. Golden Visa holders can stay outside the UAE for extended periods — including beyond six months — without losing their residency status. This is a significant advantage over standard residence permits.
What salary do I need for a salary-based Golden Visa?
You need a minimum basic monthly salary of Dh30,000 (excluding allowances), along with a bachelor’s degree and employment in a Level 1 or 2 occupational category under MOHRE classification.
Can I apply for a Golden Visa for my family members?
Yes. Golden Visa holders can sponsor their spouse and children. Male children can be sponsored until age 25, and if the primary visa holder passes away, family members retain their residency for the remaining permit duration.
Is the Golden Visa better than the Green Visa during uncertain times?
Both offer self-sponsored status, which is the key advantage during instability. The Golden Visa provides 10-year renewable residency and broader family sponsorship, while the Green Visa offers five-year residency for skilled workers earning Dh15,000+. Your choice depends on your salary level and long-term plans.
Further Reading
- UAE Golden Visa Guide 2025: Complete Requirements & Benefits
- UAE Golden Visa Benefits: 9 Premium Perks for 10-Year Residency
- UAE Golden Visa Expansion: 5 New Categories for 2025
- Can UAE Employees Earning AED 30,000 Get a Golden Visa?
- UAE Golden Visa Rejection Reasons: Latest Updates for 2025
- UAE Visa Rules 2025: 11 Major Changes for Expats
- Dubai Property Surge: 1 in 5 Homes Now Worth Over $1 Million
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