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UAE announces new Golden Visa for Waqf donors: All you need to know

The UAE introduced the Golden Vias programme in 2019 to attract high-net-worth individuals from around the world who cannot acquire citizenship there to invest in the Emirates.

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By: Express Web Desk

October 17, 2025 07:56 PM IST First published on: Oct 17, 2025 at 07:56 PM IST
UAE announces Golden Visa for Waqf donors: All you need to knowUAE Golden Visa provides long-term multiple-entry access residency up to ten years to eligible individuals. (Photo: Unsplash)

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Friday announced a new Golden Vias category under which foreign donors to Waqf will be able to obtain a long-term residency permit. According to an official release, the UAE Golden Visa under the category of “financial supporters of humanitarian work” reflects a deep-rooted commitment to humanitarian values.

UAE Golden Visa for Waqf donors

The new Golden Visa was issued as part of an agreement between the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA-Dubai) and the Endowments and Minors Affairs Foundation (Awqaf Dubai) on Friday.

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Under the agreement, Awqaf Dubai will nominate endowers — both residents and non-residents — who meet the eligibility criteria for the Golden Visa category for “financial supporters of humanitarian work.”

UAE announces new Golden Visa for Waqf donors: All you need to know
The new Golden Visa will be issued under the financial supporters of humanitarian work category. (Photo: Unsplash)

GDRFA Affairs – Dubai will then issue residency permits based on the approved recommendations. A joint committee will also be formed between both parties to monitor implementation and assess outcomes to ensure the achievement of the intended social objectives.

“This partnership comes as part of (our) commitment to reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global center for tolerance and humanitarian giving, while promoting institutional integration in support of national efforts aimed at making Dubai the most sustainable and human-centered city in the world,” GDRFA said in a statement.

UAE Golden Visa

The UAE introduced the Golden Vias programme in 2019 to attract high-net-worth individuals from around the world who cannot acquire citizenship there to invest in the Emirates. It has since been expanded to more categories, including skilled professionals, talented individuals and students.

UAE Golden Visa benefits

The UAE Golden Visa provides long-term multiple-entry access residency up to ten years to eligible individuals. They also enjoy other benefits, including sponsoring family members, including your spouse and children of any age.

Earlier this week, it was announced that Golden Visa holders will receive consular services and support from the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs when travelling abroad, similar to Emirati citizens.

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