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Golden Visa for Entrepreneurs

Founders can qualify for a 10-year UAE Golden Visa through an approved startup or innovative project. It usually needs endorsement from an accredited UAE incubator, accelerator or authority — plus evidence of the project's value, funding or traction. Spouse and children can be sponsored.

Back to Golden Visa — Complete Guide

How the entrepreneur route works

The entrepreneur route rewards founders building something innovative in or for the UAE. Rather than a salary or a property purchase, it is based on an approved project — so the decisive factor is getting the right UAE incubator, accelerator or authority to endorse your business.

Before applying, pin down which body endorses your sector, then prepare a clear plan, your ownership and licence documents, and any evidence of funding or traction. If you also run a business here, check whether a mainland or free-zone setup strengthens your case, and compare with the investor and salary routes. See all options on the Golden Visa guide.

Eligibility

  • An approved, innovative or high-growth project with technical or economic value
  • Endorsement or approval from an accredited UAE incubator, accelerator or authority
  • Ownership of a startup or company that meets the criteria, or a prior successful project
  • Evidence of funding, traction or a viable business plan where required
  • Some routes accept founders of a project or business above a set valuation

Required Documents

  • Approval or endorsement letter from the incubator or authority
  • Business plan or pitch deck
  • Trade licence (if the company exists) and ownership / cap-table documents
  • Proof of funding, revenue or traction where required
  • Passport copy and a passport-size photo
  • Attested family certificates to sponsor dependants

Steps

  1. Confirm which incubator or authority endorses your type of project
  2. Prepare your plan, licences, ownership and funding evidence
  3. Secure the incubator or authority approval / endorsement
  4. Submit the Golden Visa application via ICP or Dubai GDRFA
  5. Complete the medical test, biometrics and Emirates ID
  6. Receive your visa and sponsor family if needed

Fees & Timeline

Government and service fees vary by emirate and incubator; the core visa, medical and Emirates ID steps are usually a few thousand dirhams, plus any incubator or assessment costs.

Endorsement timing depends on the incubator or authority; the visa steps then take roughly 1–2 weeks.

Gotchas / Notes

  • Criteria differ by incubator and emirate — confirm the right endorsing body before you start.
  • Evidence of innovation, traction or funding is often required — prepare it early.
  • An existing UAE company may need to meet activity or valuation conditions.

FAQs

Do I need revenue to qualify?
Not always. Some authorities focus on innovation, impact and a credible endorsement rather than revenue — but funding or traction strengthens your case.
Do I need a UAE company already?
Not necessarily. Approval can be based on an endorsed project, though holding a licensed company can help.
How long is the visa valid?
10 years, renewable for as long as you keep meeting the criteria.
Are my co-founders or team eligible?
Spouse and children can be sponsored. Key team members usually use the salary or skilled-professional route.
Who endorses my project?
An accredited UAE incubator, accelerator or the relevant authority — the right one depends on your sector.
Can I sponsor my family?
Yes — you can sponsor your spouse and children, and in many cases your parents.

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