Welcome back to Lawgical, where we untangle the legal knots so that you do not have to. I am Ludmila Yamalova, a US-qualified lawyer based in Dubai. In each episode, we break down complex law into clear, practical insights that you can actually use.
Today, we are discussing an increasingly relevant topic for individuals planning their future: retiring in the UAE. In particular, we will explore the legal framework behind the UAE’s retirement visa and why people from around the world are choosing this country as their long-term base.
Over the last few years, the UAE has been actively promoting itself as a safe, comfortable, and well-connected destination for global retirees. This is being accomplished not just through policy, but also through infrastructure, healthcare investment, and lifestyle design.
Key reasons include:
- Safety: The UAE ranks among the safest countries in the world with low crime and high security.
- Infrastructure: From seamless transport to smart city integration, the UAE offers a reliable, modern living environment.
- Healthcare: Access to both public and private care, world-class hospitals, and a growing ecosystem for geriatric medicine.
- Accessibility: With two major international airports in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and visa-free travel to many countries, retirees can move in and out with ease.
- Convenience: Services like domestic help, deliveries, concierge medicine, and on-demand assistance make daily life efficient.
- Tax benefits: The UAE offers zero-income tax, a significant advantage for retirees with pensions or global investments.
These benefits become even more compelling when viewed through real-world examples. For instance:
- An American couple in their late 60s approached us to explore UAE residency to reduce tax exposure, access international medical networks, and maintain a cosmopolitan lifestyle. They used the financial deposit route, placing AED 1 million (about USD 300,000) in a UAE-based fixed deposit and secured their retirement visa.
- A Swedish couple in their 70s, seeking better weather and easier travel to Europe and Southeast Asia, qualified for the visa through their AED 1 million-valued property in Dubai.
- A Chinese entrepreneur in her early 60s chose the deposit route due to her substantial savings. We assisted her in setting up a local banking structure and obtaining her retirement visa. She now splits her time between Dubai and Asia.
Let us now examine the legal framework. The UAE is a country composed of seven Emirates. Immigration, including the retirement visa, is governed by federal law, which applies uniformly across all Emirates.
Relevant legislation includes:
- Federal Decree No. 29 of 2021 on the Entry and Residence of Foreigners
- Cabinet Resolution No. 65 of 2022, which defines requirements for the retirement visa
The retirement visa is a five-year renewable residence permit based on specific eligibility requirements. Holding this visa allows individuals to own property, open bank accounts, drive, rent, and access health and public services, among others.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Age or Work History: Must be 55 years or older, or have at least 15 years of professional experience anywhere in the world.
- Financial Requirements (choose one):
- Real Estate Ownership: Own property in the UAE valued at a minimum of AED 1 million. Even mortgaged properties qualify if AED 1 million has been paid.
- Fixed Deposit: Maintain AED 1 million in a UAE bank account for at least two years in a fixed deposit.
- Annual Income: Have an annual income of at least AED 240,000 (approx. USD 65,000), proven through six months of bank statements showing pensions, rental income, or investment returns.
Document Requirements:
- Valid passport
- Passport-size photo
- UAE-based health insurance (not just international)
- Proof of accommodation (ownership deed, Ejari, or long-stay hotel agreement)
- Proof of UAE contact information
- Relevant financial documents depending on the selected route
Health insurance must now be issued by a UAE-based provider. While international coverage may still be held, it must be supplemented by a UAE policy.
Accommodation can be demonstrated through various means, including long-term hotel stays, which is beneficial for retirees who travel frequently.
Application Process:
- Applications are typically submitted in person via AMER centers (in Dubai) or equivalent centers in other Emirates.
- The process includes biometric data capture, a medical test, and Emirates ID issuance.
- Applicants must remain in the UAE during the processing period, which takes approximately 2–3 weeks.
Medical Tests:
- All residence visa applicants must undergo a medical test.
- VIP medical testing services are widely available, with results often issued within hours.
Renewal:
- The retirement visa is renewable every five years, provided financial eligibility is maintained and updated documentation is submitted.
Conclusion:
The UAE retirement visa offers a legally clear and practical route for retirees from around the world. Whether seeking tax optimization, warmer climates, healthcare access, or a secure lifestyle, the UAE has created a well-structured framework to welcome retirees.
That is it for this episode of Lawgical. If you found this episode useful and appreciate what we do, please visit our website at lylawyers.com. We are also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.
Until next time, stay informed, stay safe, and keep things Lawgical.