The residency of a foreign investor in the Emirates is one of the most prominent options sought by many entrepreneurs and investors around the world. The UAE has a strategic location, a strong and diversified economy, and modern infrastructure, making it an ideal investment destination. In this context, the state has established a set of conditions and facilities that enable foreign investors to reside there and benefit from its various investment opportunities. These conditions aim to attract investments and strengthen the national economy, while guaranteeing the rights of investors and providing a suitable work environment that allows them to achieve success and growth. In this article, we will review the most important conditions for foreign investor residency in the Emirates and the procedures required to obtain it.

Conditions for the residence of a foreign investor in the Emirates
Conditions for the residence of a foreign investor in the Emirates
To obtain residency for a foreign investor in the Emirates , there are a set of conditions and procedures that must be adhered to. These conditions may vary slightly depending on the type of business activity and the free zone or emirate in which the investment is made. However, the general conditions can be summarized as follows:
- Establishing a company or owning a share in a company : The investor must establish a company in the Emirates or own a certain percentage of the shares of an existing company. In free zones, foreign investors can own 100% of the company.
- Invested capital : There must be a minimum amount of invested capital, which can vary depending on the type of activity and the emirate. The investor is required to provide proof of the required capital.
- Legal documents : A set of legal documents must be submitted, such as a passport, personal photos, the company’s articles of incorporation, and the company’s registration certificate, in addition to proof of financial ability.
- Health Insurance : Investors are required to obtain comprehensive health insurance for themselves and their families, in order to ensure the provision of the necessary health care.
- Approval of government agencies : Some commercial activities need the approval of specific government agencies before starting to practice the activity. These approvals must be obtained before submitting the residency application.
- Payment of fees : Residency issuance fees must be paid, which vary according to the type and duration of residency.
- Golden Residency : Foreign investors can obtain a “golden residency” for 10 years if they meet certain conditions, such as investing a large amount or owning a specific company.
- Compliance with local laws : The investor must adhere to all local laws and regulations related to business and residence.
These conditions aim to regulate the entry and residence of foreign investors in the Emirates, and to ensure the provision of a stable and safe investment environment for them.
Procedures for the residency of a foreign investor in the Emirates
To obtain residency for a foreign investor in the Emirates , a set of procedures must be followed. These procedures may vary slightly depending on the type of business and location the investor chooses. Here are the basic procedures:
- Choosing the type of business activity and location : The investor decides the type of business activity he wishes to practice and chooses the free zone or emirate in which he wishes to establish his company.
- Company registration : The company is registered with the relevant authority, such as the emirate’s Department of Economic Development or the Free Zone Authority. This requires submitting a company registration application along with submitting all required documents.
- Opening a bank account : A bank account must be opened in the UAE in the name of the new company. This requires submitting the necessary legal documents such as articles of incorporation and registration certificate.
- Capital Deposit : Deposit the required capital into the company’s newly opened account. Capital requirements may vary by company type and region.
- Obtaining a commercial license : Submit an application to obtain a commercial license from the competent authority. This requires obtaining the necessary approvals from the relevant government authorities, such as the Ministry of Economy or the body concerned with the specific activity.
- Submitting a residence application : After registering the company and obtaining the commercial license, the investor can apply for a residence visa. The application is submitted to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs or the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship.
- Medical examination : The investor must undergo a medical examination at one of the approved centers in the Emirates. This examination must be passed as part of the residency issuance requirements.
- Health Insurance : Obtaining an approved health insurance policy to cover the health care required in the Emirates.
- Submitting documents and paying fees : Submit all required documents such as passport, personal photos, commercial license, lease contract (if any), in addition to paying the required fees.
- Receiving the residence card : After completing all procedures and approving the application, the residence card is issued to the investor. The investor can then stay and work in the UAE according to the type of residency granted.
These procedures aim to ensure the ease and smoothness of the residency process for foreign investors in the Emirates, while providing the required legal and regulatory protection.
Residence and investment in Dubai
Residence and investment in Dubai represent a unique opportunity for investors and entrepreneurs from all over the world. Dubai enjoys a strategic location linking East and West, making it a global commercial center. It also provides a diverse and stable economic environment, supported by advanced infrastructure that includes international airports, modern ports, and high-speed communications networks. In addition, Dubai offers several free zones that allow full foreign ownership of companies and provide tax incentives and customs exemptions, making it an ideal destination for foreign investments. The government strongly supports the business environment through encouraging policies and quick procedures, in addition to offering golden residency, which grants investors and their families long-term residency, which enhances their stability and allows them to benefit from modern and safe life in Dubai. All these factors make Dubai an ideal choice for residence and investment, as it offers great opportunities for growth and success in various economic sectors.
Advantages of investing in Dubai
Investing in Dubai offers a range of advantages that make it an attractive option for investors from around the world. Here are the most important advantages of investing in Dubai:
- Dubai is located in a central location linking the markets of East and West, making it an ideal starting point for international trade.
- Dubai has a diverse economy that includes sectors such as tourism, trade, real estate, and financial services. This diversification reduces economic risks and provides multiple investment opportunities.
- Dubai provides a business environment that encourages investment thanks to flexible laws, quick procedures, and the provision of services necessary to establish and operate companies easily.
- Dubai offers a range of free zones that allow full foreign ownership, and provide tax incentives and customs exemptions, making it an ideal environment for setting up companies.
- Dubai has a world-class infrastructure that includes modern airports, advanced ports, and efficient transportation and communications networks that greatly support business operations.
- Dubai offers an attractive tax environment with no personal income tax, and low or no corporate tax in some free zones, which enhances investment attractiveness.
- Dubai is considered one of the safest cities in the world, providing a stable and comfortable environment for investment and business conduct.
- Dubai offers a Golden Residency Program that grants investors and their families long-term residency of up to 10 years, enhancing stability and attracting more investments.
- Dubai attracts millions of visitors and tourists annually, providing a vast consumer market and multiple business opportunities in diverse sectors.
- The government in Dubai supports investments by offering incentives, encouraging innovation, and providing tailored support for startups and major projects.
- Dubai encourages entrepreneurship and provides a suitable environment for innovation and development through events, networks, and various support programs.
- Investors in Dubai can choose from a wide range of investment activities, including technology, health, education, and hospitality, providing multiple options for expansion and growth.
These advantages make Dubai a preferred destination for investment, as it offers a dynamic business environment and provides broad opportunities for growth and success in various sectors.
Procedures for obtaining residency and investment
- Establishing a Company : Investors can establish companies in Dubai either in the free zones or on the mainland. This requires choosing a business type, registering the company, and obtaining a business license.
- Legal procedures : The required legal documents must be submitted, such as the passport, company incorporation contract, and registration certificate. Additional approvals may be required from relevant government agencies depending on the type of activity.
- Visa and Residence : After registering the company and obtaining the commercial license, the investor can apply for a residence visa for himself and his family. This is done through the Immigration and Naturalization Department in Dubai.
- Financing and insurance : Investors must deposit the required capital into the company’s account, and obtain health insurance that covers them and their family members.
- Banking Services : Investors can open bank accounts in Dubai and use a wide range of banking services available.
Promising investment sectors
- Real Estate : The real estate sector is considered one of the most prominent investment sectors in Dubai, with great opportunities for development and investment in commercial and residential real estate.
- Trade : Thanks to its position as a global trade centre, Dubai offers great opportunities in the field of trade, import and export.
- Tourism and Hospitality : Dubai is witnessing rapid growth in the tourism sector, providing opportunities for investment in hotels, restaurants and tourism services.
- Technology : Dubai aims to become a global center for technology and innovation, with incentives and legislation supporting investments in this field. Living and investing in Dubai offers exceptional opportunities for investors looking for a dynamic and prosperous environment for growth and expansion.

Investing in Dubai
Why invest in Dubai?
Investing in Dubai is an attractive strategic option for many reasons that make it a preferred destination for investors from around the world. Here are some main reasons:
- Dubai is located in the heart of the world, making it a gateway to major markets in Asia, Europe, and Africa. This strategic location facilitates trade and transportation operations.
- Dubai has a diverse and strong economy based on a variety of sectors such as tourism, trade, financial services, and real estate. This diversification ensures stability of the economy and reduces risks.
- Dubai provides a favorable business environment with flexible legislation and regulations that facilitate the establishment of companies and the provision of services. It also has a strong legal infrastructure to protect investors’ rights.
- Dubai has world-class infrastructure, including major international airports, modern ports, and advanced communications networks. This infrastructure supports business operations efficiently.
- Dubai offers several free zones that allow full foreign ownership of companies and provide tax incentives and customs exemptions. These areas make it easier for foreign investors to establish their businesses and achieve growth.
- Dubai offers a favorable tax environment with no personal income tax and low or no corporate income tax in some areas. This makes it an attractive destination for businesses and individuals alike.
- Dubai is known as one of the safest cities in the world, providing a stable and safe environment for business and investments. This adds a layer of reassurance for international investors.
- Dubai offers a Golden Residency Program that grants long-term residency to investors and their families, providing stability and comfortable accommodation in the city.
- Dubai attracts many visitors and tourists from all over the world, creating a huge consumer market and diverse business opportunities.
- The government in Dubai is committed to enhancing the business and investment environment through supportive policies and rapid government actions. There are also government initiatives to support innovation and entrepreneurship. Thanks to these features, Dubai has become a preferred destination for international investments, providing an ideal environment for growth and expansion in global markets.
In conclusion, the United Arab Emirates provides an encouraging and attractive environment for foreign investment thanks to its flexible legal procedures and facilities provided. The conditions for a foreign investor’s residence contribute to ensuring precise and smooth regulation of the investment process, which enhances business stability and supports economic growth. By adhering to the required conditions, such as establishing companies in accordance with legal regulations, proving financial capacity, and obtaining health insurance, foreign investors can benefit from the great opportunities offered by the UAE. The UAE remains a premium destination for investors, combining economic and commercial security with ample opportunities for growth. With the country’s commitment to providing continuous support and facilitating procedures, the UAE remains one of the most attractive destinations for foreign investment in the world.
Frequently asked questions about the conditions for the residence of a foreign investor in the Emirates
What are the conditions for a foreign investor to reside in the Emirates?
The main requirements include establishing a company or owning a share in a company, submitting legal documents such as a passport, proof of financial ability, obtaining health insurance, and obtaining a business license. There may be additional conditions depending on the type of activity and the emirate.
Can a foreign investor own a 100% company in the UAE?
Yes, a foreign investor can own 100% of a company in free zones. On the mainland, a foreign investor can have a stake in the company, but a local partner holding 51% of the shares may be required.
What types of residency are available to foreign investors?
There are different types of residency, including the regular residency, which usually lasts for two years, and the golden residency, which lasts for ten years, and is intended for investors who adhere to certain criteria such as the size of the investment.
Is a foreign investor required to submit a business plan before applying for residency?
In some cases, an investor may be required to submit a detailed business plan as part of the business license application, especially if the business requires special approvals.