🇦🇪 How to Apply for the Dubai Digital Nomad Visa
In March 2021, Dubai became the first Middle Eastern country to welcome digital nomads with open arms by introducing their Dubai Digital Nomad Visa, granting the ability to work remotely for up to 1 year.
If you wish to remain in the country longer, it is possible to do so, but only if you re-apply as per the standard application process.
As a digital nomad visa holder, you can access the same services that other residents are afforded, such as registering your children for school, opening a bank account and even applying for bank loans.
This article will share the three most important steps when applying for the Dubai Digital Nomad Visa.
Before you depart make sure you're covered...
Lau
What is a Digital Nomad Visa
A digital nomad visa is an emerging concept in the world of travel. It is designed for nomadic professionals who wish to stay and work in foreign countries over an extended period of time, often without the need to establish any official residency.
The nomad visa is open to individuals who bring economic or cultural value to their chosen destination, allowing them to work on online projects while experiencing another culture.
This type of visa has dramatically increased in popularity as technology has made working remotely increasingly possible and convenient.
Requirements for the Dubai Digital Nomad Visa
With no nationality limits, the Dubai digital nomad visa is accessible to all. However, to qualify, you must fulfil specific requirements first.
📄 Valid Travel Document
At least six months validity at the time of applying.
💶 Proof of Remote Income
You must be able to prove sufficient income from either:
- Valid working contract with a foreign company for at least one year
- Owning a business with clients outside the country for more than 12 months
- Becoming an independent freelancer and earning an income through providing services to international customers for at least one year
💰 Meet the Minimum Monthly Income
You must meet the minimum monthly income requirement of $3,500 (€3,263). One must submit payslips and authenticated bank statements to establish proof of sufficient income and funding.
🚑 Medical Insurance
A valid healthcare policy with UAE coverage validity.
3 Most Important Steps when Applying for Dubai’s Digital Nomad Visa
💥 Step 1: Gather all the required documents
You can easily apply for a Dubai digital nomad visa online, or if you are currently in the United Arab Emirates, applications may be processed at AMER service centres.
To ensure a successful start, you must collect all the necessary documents.
❗️ Required Documents
- Copy of Passport
- Three Passport-Sized Photographs
- Proof of Income with Certified Bank Statements of three preceding months
- Remote Work Verification Proof either from a current employer with a one-year contract validity or proof of company ownership for one year or more.
- Document of Health Insurance Protection
✔️ Step 2: Submit an online application
You can complete your online application form on the official Visit Dubai website. First, you must create a username and password and choose the required service labelled ‘Golden Visa’.
Make sure you submit all the required documents. When submitting your application, a non-refundable processing fee of $81 (€76) is required to complete the process.
⏳ Step 3: Wait for Approval
You should anticipate a response to your email in five to seven days regarding the status of your visa application.
Dubai Digital Nomad Visa at a Glance
For those of you who like summary tables, we've put the most important information of Dubai's Digital Nomad Visa below.
Income Requirement $3500 per month Duration of Visa One year Cost of Visa $611 Processing Time 5-7 days Family Allowed on Visa Yes Ease of Applying 10/10 Tax Obligations None
Why Dubai is a great place for Remote Workers
A digital nomad in Dubai is living the dream: they get to work in a bustling, high-tech hub whilst taking advantage of not paying any income tax on their earnings. Boasting a low crime rate, the country is considered safe and secure.
With some of the fastest internet speeds available, plenty of cosy co-working spaces, and shimmering modern offices, digital nomads will never be short of inspiration or motivation.
They’ll also benefit from Dubai’s world-famous offerings: endless bars and clubs, a range of cuisine options, and glimmering shopping malls that stock only the most luxurious items.
If you don’t enjoy the hustle and bustle of shopping in exclusive malls, why not opt for a more tranquil experience? Take a dip at the beach, explore museums or even camp out in the desert.
However, digital nomads should remember that although this visa offers huge advantages, such as no income tax payments, it comes with its own costly price tag due to Dubai’s elevated cost of living.
Time to start packing!
Lau
F.A.Q
Does Dubai offer a digital nomad visa?
Yes, Dubai provides a digital nomad visa to those who meet the criteria.
How can I get a UAE digital nomad visa?
You can apply for a UAE digital nomad visa online or at one of the AMER service centres.
How much is a digital nomad visa in Dubai?
The total cost for a digital nomad visa in Dubai is approximately $611 (€570), which includes application fees, processing charges, medical examination and an Emirates ID.
Can I move to Dubai and work remotely?
Yes, you can move to Dubai and work remotely with a digital nomad visa.
What other countries in the Middle East are offering digital nomad visas?
Currently, only Dubai offers a digital nomad visa in the Middle East.
Do you have to pay income tax as a digital nomad in Dubai?
No, remote workers do not have to pay income taxes in Dubai.
What are the requirements for the Dubai Remote work visa?
The requirements for the remote work visa in Dubai include a passport, proof of employment or company ownership, proof of income, and healthcare coverage.