The primary differences between the UAE Green Visa and the Golden Visa are given below:

Feature

UAE Green Visa

UAE Golden Visa

Validity

5 years (renewable)

10 years (renewable)

Sponsorship

Self-sponsored (no employer required)

Self-sponsored (no employer required)

Eligibility Categories

Skilled employees, freelancers/self-employed, investors/partners

Investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, highly skilled professionals, outstanding students, humanitarian pioneers

Minimum Salary Requirement

AED 15,000/month (for skilled employees)

Higher income/professional achievement required depending on category (e.g., AED 30,000+ for some professionals)

Income Proof for Freelancers

AED 360,000 annual income (past 2 years) or proof of financial stability

Not specifically required; eligibility depends on exceptional achievements or investments

Investment Requirement

Proof of business license or partnership investment (validated by authorities)

Significant investment in UAE (real estate, business, or other approved sectors)

Family Sponsorship

Yes – spouse, children up to 25, unmarried daughters, children of determination

Yes – spouse, children, parents, and in some cases domestic workers

Target Group

Mid- to high-skilled professionals, freelancers, and medium-scale investors

High-net-worth individuals, top professionals, innovators, and exceptional talents