Retirement Visa in the UAE

The UAE offers a Retirement Residence Permit (commonly known as the Retirement Visa) as a long-term visa option for eligible foreign nationals who have reached the age of retirement. The program is part of the country’s broader residency and investment ecosystem, designed to support economic diversification and long-term population growth.

As of 2024, the Retirement Visa is governed by Cabinet Resolution No. 65 of 2022, which sets out the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree-Law No. 29 of 2021 on the Entry and Residence of Foreigners.

Legal Authority

The Retirement Visa is legally grounded in:

  • Federal Decree-Law No. 29 of 2021 on Entry and Residence of Foreigners;
  • Cabinet Resolution No. 65 of 2022, specifically Article (52): Conditions and Controls for Granting the Retired Foreigner Residence Permit;
  • Implemented by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP);
  • In coordination with emirate-specific authorities such as the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) and Amer Centers in Dubai.

Eligibility Requirements Under Article 52

In accordance with Article 52 of Cabinet Resolution No. 65 of 2022, a foreign national may be granted a Retirement Residence Permit upon meeting the following conditions:

1. Minimum Age or Work History

The applicant must fulfill one of the following:

  • Be 55 years of age or older; or
  • Have completed at least 15 years of work experience, either within the UAE or abroad, prior to retirement.

2. Financial Criteria

Applicants must meet one of the following three financial thresholds:

a) Real Estate Ownership or Financial Deposit

  • Own one or more real estate properties in the UAE with a total value of at least AED 1,000,000, based on the purchase price or current market value, as certified by the Competent Authority in the concerned emirate; or
  • Hold a financial deposit of at least AED 1,000,000 in the UAE or abroad, transferred to a UAE financial institution within 60 days of visa issuance (unless invested within the UAE).

Note: If the property is mortgaged, the title deed will be accepted if the paid portion of the property equals or exceeds AED 1,000,000 at the time of application.

b) Annual Fixed Income

  • Have a fixed annual income of no less than AED 240,000 (or equivalent in foreign currency), originating from within or outside the UAE;
  • Submit a bank statement for the past 6 months confirming the income.

Required Documentation

Applicants must submit the following:

  1. Passport (valid for at least six months);
  2. Passport-size photograph meeting ICP guidelines;
  3. Proof of age or work history (retirement certificate, employment letter, etc.);
  4. Financial documents:
    • Real estate ownership certificate or valuation;
    • Bank letter confirming deposit or income;
    • Mortgage release or title deed (if applicable);
  5. Health insurance from a UAE-licensed provider;
  6. Proof of accommodation in the UAE (e.g., tenancy contract, hotel booking);
  7. UAE contact information (mobile number and email).

Health Insurance Requirement

Although not separately legislated in the visa eligibility criteria, proof of valid health insurance is a de facto requirement in practice. The insurance policy must:

  • Be issued by a UAE-licensed provider;
  • Offer UAE-wide coverage;
  • Preferably be comprehensive, particularly for older applicants.

This requirement is consistent with UAE’s general immigration health standards and is typically verified prior to visa issuance.

Application Timeline and Process

  • Processing time: 2 to 3 weeks after complete submission;
  • In-person submission is recommended at an Amer center (Dubai) or through ICP-approved channels in other emirates;
  • Applicant must be physically present in the UAE during application processing;
  • Emirates ID and biometric enrollment are part of the process.

Visa Duration and Renewal

  • The Retirement Residence Permit is issued for a 5-year term, renewable;
  • Renewal is subject to continued compliance with eligibility criteria under Article 52;
  • Financial thresholds and supporting documents may be reassessed at the time of renewal.

Conclusion

The UAE’s Retirement Visa is legally codified under Cabinet Resolution No. 65 of 2022 and offers multiple paths to eligibility based on age, work history, real estate investment, financial deposits, or income. The program provides a clear, rule-based mechanism for long-term residency and reflects the country’s commitment to attracting stable, financially secure residents.

As with all residency matters in the UAE, applicants are advised to seek professional guidance to ensure compliance with documentation, banking, and insurance standards—especially where valuation, transfers, or cross-border elements are involved.

Wrongful Termination in the UAE

In the UAE, the concept of “wrongful termination,” as it is known in some other jurisdictions, no longer exists as a standalone legal claim. While the term still echoes in common workplace conversations, UAE law today does not recognize the idea of “punishing” an employer for firing an employee without justification—or vice versa.

Instead, termination and resignation are legally treated as equal and permissible ways to end employment. And most importantly: neither is considered wrongful or penalized by the law. In that sense, UAE employment law now reflects the principle of “employment at will.”

Employment at Will: The UAE Model

Under the UAE’s current Employment Law—Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021—either party to the employment relationship is free to end it, at any time, for any reason. This freedom applies to both employers and employees.

  • Employers can terminate an employee with or without cause.
  • Employees can resign at any time, with or without justification.

There is no legal requirement to explain, justify, or defend the reason for termination or resignation.

The only requirement? Pay what is due.

This legal structure aligns the UAE more closely with jurisdictions like the United States, where employment at will is the default. That said, the UAE still provides stronger protections than the US, particularly in the form of mandatory notice periods and end-of-service benefits.

Termination Without Cause: Not Illegal, But Compensable

The UAE law does not prohibit employers from terminating an employee without cause. Instead, the focus is entirely on compensation. When employment ends—no matter the reason—employees are entitled to specific financial payments.

This includes:

  • Minimum one-month notice period (unless the employment contract stipulates a longer period)
  • Unpaid salary, commissions, or bonuses
  • Accrued but unused annual leave
  • End-of-service gratuity (EOS)
    • 21 days of basic salary for each year of service (up to 5 years)
    • 30 days of basic salary for each year of service beyond 5 years
  • One-way repatriation ticket, if applicable

There is no automatic additional compensation just because the employee was dismissed abruptly or without stated cause.

Retaliatory Dismissals: The One Exception

There is a narrow exception under Article 47 of the UAE Employment Law: if an employee is terminated for filing a serious complaint or legal claim against the employer, and the dismissal is determined to be retaliatory, the employee may be entitled to additional remedies.

This is the only instance where the UAE law considers the motive behind the termination—and provides potential recourse beyond statutory dues.

How Things Used to Be: Penalties Under the Old Law

Prior to the 2021 amendment, UAE employment law did penalize both parties under certain conditions:

  • Employers could be liable for arbitrary dismissal, requiring up to three months’ salary as compensation for terminating without cause.
  • Employees could be penalized for early resignation, especially during a fixed-term contract:
    • Reduced or lost end-of-service benefits
    • Compensation to the employer, equal to 1.5 times their monthly salary

Additionally, employees terminated for cause could lose their end-of-service gratuity altogether.

All of these punitive elements have been removed under the new law.

Equal Footing: The Modern Approach

The 2021 reform created a more balanced system:

  • No penalty for employers who terminate—as long as compensation is paid.
  • No penalty for employees who resign—as long as notice is given.

It’s a clean break approach. Employment ends when one party says so. The only question is what compensation is owed. Nothing more. Nothing less.

A Word on International Comparisons

Unlike in many European jurisdictions, UAE employers do not need to justify terminations to government authorities. There are no tribunals requiring approval or reinstatement. There is also no legal grace period during which the employee continues to receive full salary until the termination is finalized.

By contrast, in many European countries, employers must:

  • Provide cause for termination;
  • Follow strict procedures;
  • In some cases, wait for labor court approval.

In the UAE, such red tape does not exist.

Know Your Rights and Responsibilities

  • The UAE operates on a form of employment at will.
  • Both parties can end employment at any time, for any reason.
  • There is no legal punishment for doing so.
  • The only consequence is compensation, and this is clearly defined by law.
  • The previous penalties for early resignation or arbitrary dismissal no longer apply.
  • The law now places both sides on equal footing.

Understanding this framework is essential for both employers and employees. Whether you are negotiating a contract, planning your career, or preparing for a separation, knowing the rules empowers you to make informed choices, legally and strategically.

Adultery in the UAE

In the UAE, adultery remains a criminal offense under Federal Decree-Law No. 31 of 2021, specifically Article 409 of the Crimes and Penalties Law. However, in line with recent legal reforms, the offense is no longer prosecuted automatically by the state. It can only be pursued if a private complaint is filed—typically by a spouse, or in limited cases, a legal guardian.

This shift reflects the UAE’s evolving approach to balancing criminal accountability with personal agency in matters involving marital fidelity.

Legal Definition of Adultery

Under Article 409:

  • Adultery is defined as consensual intimate relations between two individuals who are not married to each other, while (in most cases) at least one of them is married to someone else.
  • The law applies to both participants in the act—each faces equal legal consequences.

Though the statutory language is written with the assumption that the male is the actor, authorities have interpreted the law to mean that either spouse—husband or wife—can file a complaint for adultery.

Who Can File a Complaint?

A complaint must be filed in order for prosecution to proceed. Without such a complaint, no investigation or prosecution takes place.

  • The primary complainant is the spouse of the accused.
  • In rare instances, such as when the affected party is incapacitated, a guardian may be permitted to file the complaint.

Importantly, if the complaint is later withdrawn, the criminal case is dropped, or any sentence imposed is suspended.

Penalties for Adultery

The punishment for adultery depends on the circumstances:

If No Child Is Conceived:

  • Both parties may face a minimum of six (6) months’ imprisonment.

If the Relationship Results in a Child:

  • The sentence increases to a minimum of two (2) years in prison.
  • However, the penalty may be waived if:
    • The couple marries, or
    • One or both individuals acknowledge paternity, and
    • Official documents are issued for the child in accordance with relevant personal status laws.

The Evidentiary Standard: High, Specific, and Explicit

While adultery is criminalized, proving it in court is extremely difficult. This is due to the high burden of proof required under UAE law.

What the Law Requires

To secure a conviction, the complainant must present clear and specific evidence that an intimate relationship occurred. Suspicion, circumstantial behavior, or suggestive conduct is not sufficient.

In practice, this often means that unless the parties involved admit to the affair, or there is direct, incontrovertible evidence, the case may not succeed.

Photos and Videos

  • Most people do not have photos or videos capturing the act in question. Surveillance or recordings are rare and often not legally obtained, which raises issues of admissibility.

WhatsApp Messages and Texts

  • WhatsApp and other chat messages can be submitted as evidence, but they must be explicit—to the point of confirming an intimate physical relationship.
  • Vague or suggestive messages are generally not sufficient. Courts require language that leaves no room for alternative interpretations.
  • Messages must clearly demonstrate that intimate contact occurred, not just emotional closeness or plans to meet.

Other Evidence

  • Hotel receipts, travel records, or witness testimony may support a claim, but rarely meet the legal standard on their own.
  • DNA testing, in cases involving a child, can provide critical proof in support of a claim and also influence sentencing outcomes.

Key Considerations Before Filing a Complaint

  • Adultery cases are highly personal, and the legal threshold for evidence is strict.
  • Without direct proof or explicit communication, even morally convincing cases may not hold up legally.
  • If a child is involved, establishing legal parentage becomes essential not only for criminal considerations but also for civil matters such as custody and documentation.

Conclusion

Adultery remains a punishable offense in the UAE, but its prosecution is now limited to private complaints filed by those directly affected. While the law continues to criminalize consensual intimate relations involving a married person, it does not allow the state to initiate charges without such a complaint.

That said, the evidentiary standard is high. Allegations must be backed by direct or unambiguous evidence, such as admissions, explicit communication, or documentation clearly pointing to the act of intimacy. In the absence of such proof, authorities are unlikely to proceed, even if suspicion is strong.

Understanding these legal nuances is essential when considering any action under UAE adultery laws—whether to file a complaint or assess the legal implications of a personal situation.

A Legal Guide to Owning Pets in the UAE

Pet ownership in the UAE—especially in Dubai—is not just legal, it is thriving. As more residents welcome pets into their homes, understanding the legal landscape around animal ownership, building policies, and tenant rights is essential. This guide covers everything you need to know about keeping pets in the UAE, including legal protections, community rules, and what to do if disputes arise.

Pet Ownership in Dubai is Legal—And Rapidly Growing

Yes, it is legal to own pets in the UAE. In fact, Dubai is quickly becoming one of the most pet-friendly cities in the region. From green neighborhoods to purpose-built dog parks and beaches, the infrastructure for pet owners is expanding.

Recent developments:

  • BarkPark Dubai (Al Awir): A large, off-leash park built for dogs to run, train, and socialize.
  • Dubai Islands Dog Beach: The city’s first beach with legal dog access, complete with agility courses.

Pet-friendly communities in Dubai:

  • Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC): Spacious parks and walkways perfect for daily dog walks.
  • The Springs: Known for its community feel and dog-friendly policies.
  • Dubai Hills Estate: Modern facilities with wide, pet-accessible paths.

Even older communities are beginning to revise outdated policies to keep pace with Dubai’s pet-loving population.

The Law Protects Animals in the UAE

Owning a pet is not just legal—it is protected by federal law. The UAE takes animal welfare seriously, with clear criminal penalties for mistreatment.

Key legal protections under Federal Decree Law No. 31 of 2021 (UAE Penal Code):

  • Article 472: Criminalizes the mistreatment, abuse, or neglect of pets or animals in one’s care. Punishable by fines of up to AED 5,000.
  • Article 473: Penalizes causing injury to another person’s animal, even if unintentional.
  • Fines can be up to AED 3,000, or AED 10,000 if the animal dies.

These laws reflect the country’s commitment to promoting humane, responsible pet ownership.

Building Rules on Pets Are Civil, Not Criminal

While some apartment buildings or communities have internal pet restrictions, these are not criminal laws. These are private policies, and violating them is not a crime.

  • Management cannot call the police or forcibly remove a tenant over a pet.
  • Enforcement is limited to community fines, warnings, or civil complaints—not legal charges.

If there is a dispute, building management must follow formal procedures, not enforce rules through intimidation or threats.

Lease Agreements and Pet Bans: What Landlords Can and Cannot Do

Some leases include a “no pets” clause. If a tenant violates that, landlords have legal remedies—but they must follow the law.

Under Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 (as amended by Law No. 33 of 2008), landlords must:

  1. Issue a formal legal notice through the Notary Public (or via registered mail), notifying the tenant of the specific lease violation (e.g., keeping a pet in contravention of the lease).
  2. Allow the tenant 30 days from the date of notice to remedy the breach.

If the tenant fails to rectify the situation within this period, the landlord may file an eviction case with the Rent Dispute Settlement Center (RDC) for breach of contract.

This process ensures that the landlord’s rights are enforced lawfully and that the tenant’s due process is respected. Landlords are not permitted to forcibly enter the premises, impose private fines, or carry out evictions without obtaining a ruling from the RDC.

Unauthorized Home Inspections Are Illegal

No one—not even building management or security—has the right to enter your home to inspect for pets without legal authorization.

What the law says:

  • UAE Penal Code Article 474: Unauthorized home entry is trespass—punishable by up to 1 year in jail or a fine up to AED 10,000.
  • Criminal Procedures Law (Federal Decree Law No. 38 of 2022):
    • Article 3: Limits home entry to circumstances supported by a court order.
    • Article 54: Requires a written warrant from the Public Prosecution for any lawful search.
  • Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 (Landlord-Tenant Law):
    • Article 17: Prohibits management from interfering with a tenant’s right to enjoy the property.
    • Article 34: Offers protection from harassment or undue interference by landlords or building representatives.

Bottom line: Your home is your private space, and that right is protected by law. Any attempt to inspect your residence without legal authorization may amount to trespass or harassment in the UAE.

What Can You Do If You Are Threatened Over Pets?

If you are facing pressure from building management, landlords, or neighbors about your pet, take action through official channels.

  • File a complaint via Mollak (RERA’s official portal for community disputes)
  • Use the Dubai REST app to report unfair enforcement
  • Escalate to the RDC if you are facing eviction threats or repeated harassment
  • Document everything: emails, texts, warning letters
  • Get legal advice if necessary—especially if your privacy has been violated

Conclusion: Pet Ownership is Legal, So is Your Right to Privacy

To recap:

  • Owning pets is fully legal in the UAE, and pet-friendly communities are on the rise.
  • Animal welfare laws are strict and protect against abuse or harm.
  • Community rules about pets are civil, not criminal—and must be enforced fairly.
  • Landlords must follow legal procedures before taking any action.
  • You are not required to allow anyone into your home without legal authority.

Dubai’s legal framework balances the rights of pet owners, landlords, and communities. By knowing the law, you can stand your ground, protect your privacy, and advocate for your pet—legally and confidently.