Discover everything you need about the Dubai digital nomad visa, including required documents, application steps, and FAQs.
As of December 2023, the United Arab Emirates holds the 4th position in the VisaGuide.World Digital Nomad Index, with a score of 3.65, makes it a top destination for digital nomads. Dubai, a vibrant city in the UAE, offers a unique opportunity for remote workers through its “Work Remotely from Dubai” program. This initiative, launched in March 2021, has been attracting digital nomads from around the globe.
This comprehensive guide will detail the benefits, requirements, and application process for obtaining a Dubai digital nomad visa.
Benefits of Working as a Digital Nomad in Dubai
Tax-Free Living
One of the most significant advantages of working as a digital nomad in Dubai is the tax-free environment. In Dubai, you won’t pay income tax, capital gains tax, withholding tax, or local taxes. While you are expected to fulfill your tax obligations back home, proving it in Dubai is optional.
Top-Notch Healthcare System
Dubai boasts a high-quality healthcare system with state-of-the-art facilities. The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) manages public and private health services, ensuring a high standard of medical care. Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) offers over 130 advanced private healthcare facilities across 150 specialties, making it a preferred choice for many expatriates.
Access to Essential Services
Upon receiving your visa and arriving in Dubai, you will be issued an Emirates ID. This document provides access to various services, including banking, housing rentals, and phone lines. If you have children, it also allows you to enroll them in local schools.
Fast Internet Connection
Dubai offers some of the fastest internet speeds in the world, with fixed connections averaging 256.04 Mbps and mobile connections at 273.87 Mbps. Most accommodations for expatriates come with internet speeds exceeding 100 Mbps, ensuring smooth browsing, video calls, and heavy streaming.
Requirements for Dubai Digital Nomad Visa
To apply for a digital nomad visa in Dubai, you need to gather the following documents:
General Requirements
- Online filled visa application form. You can fill out the application form from the official website of Work Remotely from Dubai.
- Valid passport. Your passport needs to be valid for at least six months.
- Digital passport photo. Your passport photo needs to be with dimensions 45mm/35mm and a white background.
- Accommodation reservation. You will need a hotel booking, a lease, or a rental agreement to confirm your accommodation.
- Medical insurance. You need medical insurance designed for digital nomads and remote workers living abroad to travel to Dubai. Health insurance must have UAE coverage validity.
For Business Owners
- Proof of ownership of the company for one year or more
- Minimum of $5.000 monthly income
- Bank statements for the last three months
For Employees
- Proof of employment with one one-year contract
- Last month’s payslip
- Minimum of $5.000 salary per month
- Bank statements for the last three months
How to Apply for a Dubai Digital Nomad Visa
Applying for a Dubai digital nomad visa involves several steps:
- Prepare Your Documents: Ensure all required documents are in English and digitized.
- Visit the Official Website: Apply through the Work Remotely from the Dubai portal by filling out the application form with your personal details.
- Submit Your Application: After completing the form, you will receive an email with further instructions.
- Send Required Documents: Email the necessary documents to workvirtual@dubaitourism.ae for review.
- Wait for a Response: You will receive an email with payment instructions.
- Pay the Fees: The total cost is $611, which includes the application fee, processing charges, medical insurance premium, and Emirates ID.
- Arrange a Medical Visit: This can be done before or after arriving in Dubai.
- Travel to Dubai: Once your visa is granted, you can travel to Dubai.
- Complete Medical and Biometric Procedures: Schedule a medical appointment and visit a biometrics office.
- Get Your Residency Card: After completing all steps, collect your residency card and enjoy living in Dubai for a year.
Cost of the Dubai Digital Nomad Visa
The total cost for a Dubai digital nomad visa is $611. This includes an application fee of $287 and additional processing charges, medical insurance premiums, and Emirates ID costs.
Paying the processing fee does not guarantee visa approval, and additional charges may apply based on your country of citizenship and specific service requests.
Processing Time for a Digital Nomad Visa in Dubai
The processing time for a Dubai digital nomad visa ranges from 30 to 60 days.
Duration of Stay and Tax Information
The Dubai digital nomad visa is valid for one year and can be renewed upon re-application. While digital nomads in Dubai are exempt from local income taxes, they must still comply with their home country’s tax obligations.
Dubai also imposes corporate taxes on oil companies and foreign banks, excise taxes on specific goods, and a Value Added Tax (VAT) on most goods and services.
By following this guide, you can smoothly navigate the process of obtaining a Dubai digital nomad visa and enjoy the numerous benefits of working remotely from one of the world’s most dynamic cities.