On May 12, 2025, a directive was issued by the Crown Prince of Dubai, announcing that nursing professionals employed by Dubai Health will become eligible for the UAE Golden Visa. This initiative recognizes the vital contributions of nursing staff and is part of the country’s broader effort to expand long-term residency opportunities for professionals across key sectors.

The announcement builds on the UAE’s growing legal infrastructure to support and retain dedicated professionals who play essential roles in national development—particularly in healthcare and education.

Who Qualifies for the New Golden Visa for Nurses?

According to the directive:

• The Golden Visa will be available to nursing staff working under Dubai Health.
• Eligibility will be granted to individuals who have served more than 15 years in their roles.
• The initiative reflects the country’s continued commitment to recognizing excellence and long-term service in the healthcare sector.

Qualified nurses will be offered:

• A renewable 10-year residency
• The right to self-sponsor
• Expanded opportunities for career mobility within the UAE

Legal Framework: Implementation in Progress

While the directive establishes eligibility in principle, the operational aspects of the visa are currently being finalized. Areas awaiting further clarification include:

1. The application process – including whether it will be initiated by individuals or coordinated through Dubai Health;
2. Verification of service history – to confirm the 15-year minimum tenure;
3. Official launch timeline – including application opening dates and expected processing timeframes.

These details are expected to be released soon, along with relevant procedural guidance from Dubai authorities.

Consistency Across Key Professions: Teachers, Doctors, and Now Nurses

This recent announcement follows similar Golden Visa initiatives tailored to other sectors, each designed to honor contributions that directly impact national well-being and future readiness.

Educators in Dubai

In October 2024, a long-term residency program was introduced for teachers and school leaders in private education, aligned with Dubai’s Education 33 Strategy. Eligible roles include:

• Teachers
• Principals
• Academic heads
• Early childhood center managers
• Full-time higher education faculty

Educators are nominated by their schools through the KHDA portal, with a structured application process and an evaluation period of approximately 45 days. Successful applicants receive a 10-year renewable visa and may sponsor their family members.

Doctors Across the UAE

Licensed medical professionals with at least 2 years of UAE experience, earning a minimum salary of AED 30,000, are eligible for the Golden Visa across all emirates. Requirements include:

• A valid medical license (from DHA, DOH, or MOHAP)
• A legalized degree
• An active employment contract
• Bank statements (last 6 months)

Applications can be submitted via GDRFA, ICP, or TAMM, depending on the emirate. Processing time is typically 7 to 15 days.

A Global Context: UAE’s Proactive Step Amid a Worldwide Nursing Shortage

Around the world, countries are grappling with an acute shortage of nurses. Healthcare systems in many developed and developing nations are facing staffing crises—prompting calls for immigration reform, workforce incentives, and urgent recruitment drives.

Against this backdrop, the UAE’s decision to offer long-term residency to its experienced nursing professionals stands out. It signals a proactive and values-based approach—not only addressing retention, but affirming the critical role nurses play in sustaining public health.

By legally empowering nurses through self-sponsored 10-year residency, the UAE is doing more than just offering a benefit. It is leading by example, recognizing its healthcare workforce as central to national resilience and development.

Golden Visa as a Legal Tool for Recognition and Retention

The Golden Visa program is becoming a key legal instrument through which the UAE retains and rewards professionals in healthcare, education, and other fields. It provides:

• Long-term residency (10 years, renewable)
• Self-sponsorship
• Family sponsorship rights
• Freedom to work across sectors or institutions

Rather than a one-size-fits-all process, the Golden Visa framework in the UAE is responsive to each sector’s unique structure and needs, with tailored pathways that reflect the nature of the work and the entities involved.

Next Steps for Nursing Professionals

Nurses interested in the Golden Visa are encouraged to begin preparing by:

• Compiling service documentation confirming their employment history
• Staying informed on updates from Dubai Health and relevant government authorities
• Seeking legal guidance for application readiness once the process opens

Conclusion: Continued Investment in the UAE’s Human Capital

The UAE’s expansion of the Golden Visa program to nursing staff is a meaningful legal step in its national development strategy. By honoring long-standing commitment and professional service, the UAE continues to build a legal framework that promotes stability, loyalty, and excellence.

With consistent pathways now established for teachers, doctors, and nurses, the Golden Visa program reinforces the UAE’s broader vision: to be a destination where talent is recognized, contributions are rewarded, and residency is aligned with merit and impact.