Golden Hearts: UAE Unveils New Visa Category Rewarding Philanthropists with 10-Year Residency
DUBAI, UAE—The United Arab Emirates is expanding its highly sought-after Golden Visa program by creating a brand new pathway that directly rewards major philanthropists and financial supporters of charitable work with long-term residency.
The new category, for “Financial Supporters of Humanitarian Work,” underscores the UAE’s strategic commitment to linking generosity with national development and securing its status as a global center for tolerance and sustainable giving.
The Details: Linking Charity to Residency
The initiative was launched through a cooperation agreement between the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA-Dubai) and the Endowments and Minors Affairs Foundation (Awqaf Dubai).
Under this new framework, eligible donors—both residents and non-residents—will be nominated to receive the 10-year, renewable Golden Visa if they meet certain criteria defined in Cabinet Resolution No. (65) of 2022.
Key criteria for qualification typically include:
- Financial Contribution: Providing financial support for humanitarian work with a minimum value of AED 2,000,000 (approximately $544,514 USD) or its equivalent.
- Academic Requirement: Applicants must hold at least a university degree or its equivalent.
- Nomination: The applicant must be nominated by Awqaf Dubai or an authorized local humanitarian institution.
A Focus on Sustainable Giving (Waqf)
The partnership specifically targets donors to Waqf, which, in Islamic tradition, is a perpetual charitable endowment—often involving assets like cash or property—set aside for the benefit of the community, such as supporting education or healthcare.
Lt-Gen Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA-Dubai, highlighted the significance of the move, calling the agreement a “pioneering model of government integration that empowers endowers to play a vital role in community development.”
Golden Benefits for Philanthropists
For those who secure the visa under this category, the rewards offer maximum long-term security:
- 10-Year Residency: The visa is long-term and renewable, providing stability.
- No Local Sponsor: Holders enjoy independence, with no need for an employer or local guarantor.
- Family Sponsorship: Eligibility to sponsor family members, including spouses, children, and parents.
- Extended Absence: The freedom to stay outside the UAE for extended periods without risking the cancellation of their residency.
The move comes alongside other recent Golden Visa additions for diverse talent categories, such as content creators, teachers, and E-sports professionals, further cementing the UAE’s inclusive approach to attracting global pioneers.
Conclusion
The UAE’s decision to grant 10-year Golden Visas to financial supporters of humanitarian work is a highly commendable move that strategically aligns national values with immigration policy. By rewarding altruism and ensuring the sustainability of charitable endowments, the country is reinforcing its reputation as a global philanthropic hub. For affluent individuals looking to create a lasting legacy of giving while securing long-term residency, this new category offers an appealing and profound pathway.
Affiliate Disclosure
This article is a news report and does not contain affiliate links. We do not receive compensation for any links or products mentioned.
Disclaimer
The details regarding the financial contribution (AED 2,000,000) and the eligibility requirements are based on official announcements from the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) – Dubai and Awqaf Dubai. Visa regulations are subject to change, and prospective applicants must consult with a qualified immigration professional and the official government entities for the specific nomination and application procedures.
Official Website Link: GDRFA Dubai: https://gdrfad.gov.ae/
