Dubai has experienced a substantial 52% increase in the issuance of Golden Visas during the first half of 2023 compared to the same period last year, as reported by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai. The Golden Visa program, introduced in 2019, grants expatriates the opportunity for long-term residency, allowing them to live, work, or study in the UAE for up to 10 years. Eligible individuals include investors, entrepreneurs, scholars, specialists, exceptional students, and frontline heroes, among others. As of November 2022, Dubai had already granted over 150,000 Golden Visas to qualified residents, investors, professionals, and more.

This remarkable surge in Golden Visa issuance aligns with Dubai’s growing appeal, particularly in the post-pandemic era, as it continues to attract foreign investors and professionals for its successful handling of the pandemic and hosting Expo 2020. The emirate’s population has experienced substantial growth since the beginning of 2023, adding over 72,700 residents and reaching a total population of 3.623 million, a significant increase from 3.550 million at the start of the year. Additionally, Dubai has seen a 63% increase in residency visas and a 21% increase in tourist visas during the January-June period, indicating its enduring allure for both foreigners seeking new opportunities and tourists eager to explore the UAE.