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How to Get Your UAE Golden Visa
The UAE’s Golden Visa programme is a significant initiative aimed at attracting and retaining talent and investment in the country. This long-term residency visa is available to various categories of expatriates, including investors, entrepreneurs, researchers, medical professionals, and outstanding students. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of obtaining a Golden Visa in the UAE, including eligibility criteria, application steps, and benefits.
Understanding the Golden Visa
The Golden Visa was introduced in 2019 as part of the UAE’s efforts to enhance its status as a global investment hub and to ensure the continued growth of its economy. This visa grants a long-term residency permit of 5 to 10 years, which is automatically renewable. It is designed to attract individuals who can contribute to the UAE’s development and economic prosperity.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President & Prime Minister of the UAE & Ruler of Dubai
Eligibility Criteria
The Golden Visa is available to several categories of applicants:
Investors
Investors in public investments of at least AED 10 million are eligible for a 10-year visa. This investment can be in the form of a deposit, an established company, or a business partnership.
Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs who have a project with a minimum capital of AED 500,000, or those who have the approval of an accredited business incubator in the UAE, qualify for a 5-year visa.
Specialised Talents
This includes researchers, scientists, and specialists in the fields of science and knowledge, such as doctors, engineers, and inventors. These individuals are eligible for a 10-year visa.
Outstanding Students
Outstanding students with a minimum grade of 95% in public and private secondary schools and university students with a GPA of 3.75 or higher upon graduation are eligible for a 5-year visa.
Medical Professionals
Doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals who meet specific criteria are also eligible for the Golden Visa. This category was expanded significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic to include frontline workers.
Arts and Culture
Creators in the fields of culture and art who have achieved significant recognition or awards are eligible for a 10-year visa.
Application Process
The application process for the Golden Visa is straightforward but requires thorough documentation and adherence to the specified criteria.
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
Check if you fall into one of the eligible categories. Ensure you meet all the specific requirements related to your category.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Gather all necessary documents, including identification, proof of investment or business, academic certificates, and professional qualifications.
Step 3: Apply Online
Submit your application through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) portals. You can also apply through the DubaiNow app.
Step 4: Pay the Fees
The application fee varies depending on the type and duration of the visa. Ensure you pay the correct amount to avoid any delays.
Step 5: Await Approval
Once your application is submitted, it will be reviewed by the relevant authorities. If additional information or documentation is required, you will be notified.
Step 6: Receive Your Visa
Upon approval, you will receive your Golden Visa. This process can take a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the completeness of your application and the category you fall under.
Benefits of the Golden Visa
Long-Term Residency
The primary benefit of the Golden Visa is the long-term residency it offers. This provides stability and security for expatriates and their families.
Business Opportunities
Golden Visa holders can explore various business opportunities, invest in new ventures, and contribute to the UAE’s economic growth without the need for a national sponsor.
Family Sponsorship
Golden Visa holders can sponsor their spouses, children, and support staff, ensuring that their families can also benefit from the UAE’s high standard of living.
Education and Healthcare
Access to world-class education and healthcare facilities is another significant advantage. Families can avail of top-tier services in a secure environment.
Community Integration
The Golden Visa promotes community integration, allowing expatriates to engage more deeply with the UAE’s cultural and social fabric.
In the words of Khaldoon Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Executive Affairs Authority of Abu Dhabi,
“The Golden Visa is a testament to the UAE’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive community, one that values and rewards the contributions of its residents.”
Khaldoon Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Executive Affairs Authority of Abu Dhabi
Historical Context
The concept of long-term residency visas in the UAE has evolved significantly over the years. The introduction of the Golden Visa was a milestone, reflecting the country’s adaptive and forward-thinking approach to economic development and population growth. It underscores the UAE’s strategy to attract and retain global talent, positioning itself as a leader in innovation, business, and culture.
For more insights on living, working, and thriving in the UAE, visit What’s Hot in UAE.
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Dog Hydrotherapy in Dubai: The Healing Power of Water for Your Pet
In a city that celebrates innovation, wellness, and luxury, it’s no surprise that Dubai is also ahead of the curve when it comes to pet care. Among the most advanced services available for dogs in the region is canine hydrotherapy — a water-based therapy that combines science, compassion, and movement to help dogs recover from injury, surgery, and chronic conditions. For those researching dog hydrotherapy in Dubai, you’ll find options designed to cater to canine health with excellence.
Now more than ever, pet owners across the UAE are seeking holistic, non-invasive solutions that prioritise comfort without compromising on results. Dog hydrotherapy in Dubai is quickly becoming a go-to choice for those looking to restore mobility, reduce pain, and improve the overall quality of life for their furry companions. And with new, world-class hydrotherapy centres opening their doors in the city, this trend is only growing.
🌊 What Is Dog Hydrotherapy?
Let’s start with the basics. Hydrotherapy is the use of water to relieve pain, improve movement, and support recovery. For dogs, this can involve:
- Controlled swimming in a warm-water pool
- Gentle walking in an underwater treadmill
- Supervised aquatic exercises tailored to their medical condition
Because water provides buoyancy, it reduces the pressure on joints and limbs, making it easier for dogs to move without discomfort. Water also adds resistance, which helps to strengthen muscles during exercise. When done properly, hydrotherapy improves circulation, flexibility, balance, and overall fitness — all without overloading your dog’s joints.
🐾 Why Dogs in Dubai Are Turning to Hydrotherapy
Dubai is home to one of the fastest-growing pet wellness markets in the world. With state-of-the-art clinics and wellness centres, residents have access to therapies once only found in Europe or the US.
Dog hydrotherapy is especially popular with owners of:
- Senior dogs suffering from arthritis or joint degeneration
- Post-op patients recovering from orthopaedic surgery
- Higher-Weight dogs needing non-impact exercise
- Athletic dogs that need performance recovery
- Dogs with neurological issues affecting coordination
Hydrotherapy is safe, gentle, and typically guided by a certified canine hydrotherapist, often under the recommendation of a vet or specialist.
🏥 Leading Hydrotherapy Centres in Dubai
Let’s take a look at three of the most established and trusted hydrotherapy centres for dogs in the UAE. Each one combines advanced equipment with personalised care.
1. Dogwalk Rehabilitation Centre – Al Quoz, Dubai
Dogwalk is a premium rehabilitation clinic known for its advanced hydrotherapy setup, including a temperature-controlled pool and underwater treadmill. All sessions are managed by UK-trained hydrotherapists.
Notable services:
- Recovery plans after cruciate surgery or spinal injury
- Support for dogs with arthritis, hip dysplasia, or degenerative conditions
- Muscle strengthening and cardiovascular training
📞 Visit: dogwalkonline.com
2. Umm Suqeim Veterinary Centre – Umm Suqeim, Dubai
This vet-led centre includes an impressive physiotherapy department with a fully integrated hydrotherapy unit, combining professional medical care with rehabilitation.
What stands out:
- Hydrotherapy is part of a larger recovery programme
- Ideal for dogs with both physical and neurological recovery needs
- In-house vets work closely with therapists
📞 Visit: usvetcentre.com
3. Homely Petz Hydrotherapy – Ras Al Khaimah (serving Dubai residents willing to travel)
Led by Amanda Anderson, one of the UAE’s only certified hydrotherapists with UK accreditation, Homely Petz offers a peaceful countryside hydro facility designed for both treatment and training.
Offered services:
- Hydrotherapy for recovery or chronic illness
- Puppy swimming confidence sessions
- Weight management and conditioning
📞 Visit: homelypetz.com
📋 Conditions That Benefit Most From Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy isn’t just for injured dogs — it can also prevent future issues and improve fitness. Here are some common conditions treated:
Condition | How Hydrotherapy Helps |
---|---|
Arthritis | Reduces joint stiffness and inflammation |
Hip Dysplasia | Improves mobility and strengthens supporting muscles |
Obesity | Burns calories without impact on joints |
Cruciate Ligament Injury | Aids in surgical recovery and regains muscle strength |
Spinal Injuries | Encourages controlled movement without stress |
Muscle Atrophy | Builds strength safely in weakened limbs |
Neurological Disorders | Helps with balance, movement, and coordination |
🔍 What to Expect from a Hydrotherapy Session
First-time pet parents often wonder what a session looks like. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Veterinary Referral or Initial Consultation
Your dog may need a medical clearance or recent diagnosis before starting hydrotherapy. Some centres provide an in-house check. - Tailored Therapy Plan
Based on your dog’s condition, the therapist creates a programme that may include swimming, treadmill walking, or both. - Supervised Sessions
Your dog is fitted with a buoyancy vest and guided by a therapist throughout the session. Safety and comfort come first. - Progress Tracking
Regular assessments ensure your dog’s progress is being tracked, and the plan is adjusted accordingly.
Sessions usually last 20–30 minutes, depending on your dog’s stamina and needs.
🐶 Who Should Consider It?
Hydrotherapy is ideal for dogs who:
- Are recovering from surgery (ACL, hip, spinal)
- Have arthritis or joint stiffness
- Have gained excess weight
- Have neurological impairments like wobblers or disc disease
- Are active/sport dogs who need joint recovery
- Are senior dogs needing gentle conditioning
It’s not suitable for:
- Dogs with open wounds
- Unstable heart conditions
- Dogs prone to panic in water (unless working with confidence therapy)
💬 Why Hydrotherapy is Growing in the UAE
Dubai’s pet owners are passionate about premium care, and hydrotherapy fits that ethos perfectly:
- It’s science-backed with results visible in weeks
- It’s non-invasive, avoiding medication and risky surgery when possible
- It’s offered in luxurious, pet-friendly clinics designed for calm and comfort
And it aligns with Dubai’s wider focus on human wellness — dogs here are part of the family, and they’re being offered the same level of care.
💰 Typical Costs for Dog Hydrotherapy in Dubai
Type of Session | Estimated Price (AED) |
---|---|
Initial Assessment | 300 – 500 |
Standard Hydro Session | 200 – 400 |
Package (5–10 Sessions) | 1,000 – 3,000+ |
Prices vary depending on the centre, therapist qualifications, and therapy duration.
🧠 Quick Tips for Dog Owners New to Hydrotherapy
- ✅ Book an evaluation first – Always check your dog’s condition before jumping in.
- ✅ Bring towels – Some centres provide them, but it’s good to come prepared.
- ✅ Start slow – Don’t expect major results after one session. It’s a process.
- ✅ Watch for signs of improvement – Look for better walking, posture, and mood.
- ✅ Stay consistent – Weekly sessions show best results, especially for chronic issues.
Final Word
Dog hydrotherapy in Dubai is more than just a trend — it’s a game-changing approach to animal wellness that is improving lives, one splash at a time.
With modern facilities, certified experts, and a community of wellness-focused pet owners, the UAE is quickly becoming a hub for advanced canine care.
Whether your dog is healing, ageing, or just in need of some low-impact movement, hydrotherapy offers a path forward — naturally, safely, and with results that speak for themselves.
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Dubai Wants You To Work From Home To Cut Traffic
The Dubai Government has unveiled a forward-thinking initiative to tackle one of the emirate’s most pressing issues: traffic congestion. By embracing flexible working hours and remote work policies, Dubai aims to reduce peak-hour traffic and improve mobility across the city.
This decision follows surveys conducted by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and the Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR). The surveys, which collectively involved over 332,000 employees, revealed significant potential for traffic reduction through policy changes in the public and private sectors. These findings have become the foundation of Dubai’s newly approved Traffic Flow Plan, part of its broader goal to enhance the emirate’s quality of life and economic efficiency. Dubai Wants You To Work From Home.
Survey Findings: Remote Work’s Role in Traffic Management
The surveys presented compelling evidence that remote work and flexible hours could significantly alleviate congestion. A flexible start-time policy, allowing a two-hour window for employees to begin their workday, was shown to reduce traffic volumes by as much as 30% during peak hours.
Key statistics include:
- 9.8% traffic reduction on Sheikh Zayed Road if 20% of employees work remotely.
- 8.4% decrease on Al Khail Road under the same scenario.
- Flexible hours alone could cut traffic on major roads by an additional 5-6%.
Additionally, the surveys noted that 32% of private companies already implement some form of remote work, with 58% expressing willingness to expand these policies. On the flexible hours front, 31% of companies have already adopted the practice, with 66% of non-participating firms open to implementation.
Public Sector Leading the Way
The public sector has already embraced remote work with significant success. Currently, 80% of government entities offer employees the option to work remotely twice a week, underscoring the adaptability of public organisations in leading by example.
The survey found that 80.4% of employees working remotely believe their productivity matches in-office levels, while 90% report no issues with connectivity or communication. These findings highlight the feasibility of remote work as a long-term solution for traffic management and business continuity.
Expanding Sustainable Transport Options
In addition to encouraging remote work, Dubai’s plan incorporates a host of complementary traffic demand management measures:
- Truck movement restrictions to minimise congestion during peak hours.
- Dedicated bus and taxi lanes to improve the efficiency of public transport.
- First and last-mile connectivity options, such as scooters and e-bikes, to encourage alternatives to private vehicles.
- Carpooling programmes aimed at reducing the number of single-occupancy vehicles on the road.
His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Commissioner General for the Infrastructure, Urban Planning, and Well-Being Pillar, emphasised the importance of these initiatives in balancing transport demand across time and location, fostering sustainable urban mobility.
A Step Towards the Future
These policies are part of Dubai’s vision to become the world’s best city to live and work in, fostering community well-being and economic growth. His Excellency Abdulla Ali bin Zayed Al Falasi, Director General of DGHR, highlighted Dubai’s commitment to pioneering innovation and flexibility in the workplace.
“Since its adoption in 2020, the remote work system has become integral to the corporate culture of most government entities,” said Al Falasi. “The findings reflect Dubai’s readiness for future transformations, establishing it as a hub for talent and innovation.”
The Road Ahead
With the adoption of these measures, Dubai is poised to create a more efficient, sustainable, and liveable city. The integration of flexible work policies with advanced urban planning exemplifies the emirate’s innovative approach to tackling challenges and achieving its ambitious vision for the future.
For more updates on Dubai’s innovative initiatives, visit What’s Hot in UAE.
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Visiting Dubai? You NEED One of These
Dubai, with its dazzling skyline, luxurious lifestyle, and vibrant culture, is a must-visit destination for many travellers worldwide. However, before you set off to explore this glamorous city, securing the appropriate visit visa is crucial. Visiting Dubai? The UAE offers 11 different types of visit visas, each tailored to different needs and durations. This guide will help you navigate through the visa options, ensuring you choose the right one for your stay in Dubai.
Single-Entry Tourist Visit Visa
For those planning a short trip to experience Dubai’s iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, the single-entry tourist visit visa is ideal.
This visa allows for a stay of either 30 or 60 days. To apply, you need a personal photo, a copy of your passport, and a tourist visa fee of AED 200 for a 30-day stay or AED 300 for a 60-day stay.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months, and you must have a travel ticket to leave the UAE, along with valid medical insurance during your stay.
If you’re from Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran, or Pakistan, an identity card from your country of origin is also required.
Multi-Entry Tourist Visa
For frequent visitors, the multi-entry tourist visa allows multiple entries within 30 or 60 days.
The fees are AED 300 for 30 days and AED 500 for 60 days, with an additional AED 500 fee upon arrival.
Requirements include a personal photo, passport copy, six months passport validity, a departure ticket, and medical insurance.
Identity cards from specific countries may also be necessary.The Dubai Frame is another attraction you can visit multiple times with the multi-entry tourist visa
5-Year Multi-Entry Tourist Visa
This visa is perfect for those who plan to visit Dubai frequently over several years. It allows multiple entries, with each stay lasting up to 180 days annually.
The visa fees are AED 300 for 30 days, AED 500 for 60 days, and AED 700 for 90 days.
Applicants need a personal photo, a valid passport, a six-month bank statement, health insurance, and a round-trip ticket.
Additionally, a guarantee amount of AED 2,000 plus service fees is required.
Single-Entry Visa for Visiting a Friend or Relative
If you have friends or family in Dubai, you can apply for a single-entry visa to visit them for 30, 60, or 90 days.
The fees are AED 200, AED 300, and AED 400, respectively. You need a financial security deposit of AED 1,000, a service fee of AED 20, and a reimbursement fee of AED 40.
Required documents include a valid passport copy, two personal photos, medical insurance, and proof of relationship with the host in Dubai, such as a letter and salary certificate.
Multi-Entry Visa for Visiting a Friend or Relative
Similar to the single-entry visa but with the flexibility of multiple entries over 30, 60, or 90 days.
The fees are AED 300, AED 500, and AED 700, respectively.
The application requirements remain the same.
Student Visit Visa
For students coming to Dubai for education, training, or rehabilitation, the student visit visa allows for stays of 30, 60, or 180 days.
Fees are AED 200, AED 300, and AED 400, respectively. A refundable deposit of AED 1,000 is required.
Documents needed include a personal photo, valid passport copy, and a letter from an educational institution.
Job Opportunity Visit Visa
Job seekers can explore employment opportunities in Dubai with a visit visa valid for 60, 90, or 120 days.
Fees are AED 200, AED 300, and AED 400, respectively, with a refundable deposit of AED 1,000.
Required documents include a personal photo, valid passport, university degree, and proof of being a skilled worker as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
Visit Visa for Exploring Business Opportunities
Entrepreneurs can explore business opportunities in Dubai with a visit visa valid for 60, 90, or 120 days.
Fees are AED 200, AED 300, and AED 400, respectively, with a refundable deposit of AED 1,000.
Required documents include two personal photos, a valid passport copy, and proof of investment.
Medical Visit Visa
For those seeking medical treatment in Dubai, the medical visit visa allows stays of 90 or 180 days.
Fees are AED 200 and AED 500, respectively. Applicants need a personal photo, valid passport, a medical report, and a letter from a host justifying the visit.
A refundable deposit of AED 1,000 for a single entry and AED 2,000 for multiple entries is required.
Escorting Treatment Visit Visa
This visa is for those accompanying a patient to Dubai for medical treatment.
Fees and requirements are similar to the medical visit visa.
Multiple Entry Visit Visa for Truck Drivers
Truck drivers transporting goods to the UAE can apply for a visit visa valid for 30, 60, or 90 days.
Fees are AED 300, AED 500, and AED 700, respectively.
Required documents include a personal photo, valid passport, proof of relationship with a shipping company, driving license, and vehicle license.
For the most up-to-date visa requirements, always check with the Government of Dubai before booking your flight.
For more information on travel and lifestyle in the UAE, visit What’s Hot in UAE.
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