Frequently asked questions

Certain UAE banks offer remote account opening for applicants with a residence visa. As a resident, applying for an account automatically categorizes the client as "low-risk," streamlining the online account opening process.

Yes, non-residents can open a savings account in the UAE, but not a current account. The process requires personal bank visits, financial documentation, and a minimum balance requirement, which varies by bank, but on average starts from 100,000 AED.

Yes, a Russian citizen can open an account in the UAE. Before applying to a bank to open an account, it is necessary to obtain a residence visa (residency permit) in the Emirates. This can be done through employment, starting a company, obtaining a freelancer license, or purchasing real estate. A personal account can be opened in many banks within a few days if the applicant has a residence visa, but the exact timeframe depends on the type of residency visa and the client’s history.

The approval time for a UAE Golden Visa can vary depending on the specific case. On average, the process takes between 1 to 3 months after submitting the required documents.

Eligibility for the UAE Golden Visa is based on various categories, including investors, entrepreneurs, talented professionals, outstanding students, and specific sectors like science, arts, and sports. The requirements vary by category.

The Abu Dhabi Golden Visa provides long-term residency for qualified individuals, including investors, skilled workers, and talented professionals in various fields. This visa is part of the UAE's initiative to attract skilled talent and investment into the country.

What are the benefits of the UAE Golden Visa for different applicant categories?

The UAE Golden Visa offers tailored advantages based on your eligibility:

• Investors: Long-term residency, freedom to manage investments without constant renewals, and property-linked benefits.
• Entrepreneurs: Opportunity to expand businesses with access to UAE markets and government initiatives.
• High-Profile Professionals: Enhanced career prospects, tax-free income, and opportunities in high-demand industries.
• Students and Innovators: Long-term stability to focus on academic or professional growth.
• Humanitarians and Frontline Heroes: Recognition of contributions and guaranteed residency for their families.

Approval timelines vary by category:

• Investors: Typically 2–4 weeks, including property registration and documentation review.
• Entrepreneurs: 3–6 weeks, as business-related documents undergo more extensive evaluation.
• Professionals and talents: 1–3 weeks, depending on the documentation submitted for skill verification.
• Students and innovators: 1–2 weeks if supported by academic or innovation-related endorsements.

Note: Post-approval procedures (medical exams, Emirates ID, and visa stamping) add an additional 3–7 days.

Yes, you can combine up to three properties to meet the investment threshold, provided:

• The total value exceeds AED 2 million ($550,000) for the 10-year visa or AED 750,000 ($205,000) for the 2-year visa.
• All properties are in Freehold Zones.
• You hold individual Title Deeds for each property.

• 10-Year Visa: At least AED 2 million of the property value must be funded by personal means, even if part of it is mortgaged.
• 2-Year Visa: A minimum 50% down payment is required. A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the bank and a statement of loan details are mandatory.
• If the property is sold, the visa may be revoked unless the minimum investment threshold is maintained.

The Golden Visa allows you to sponsor your:

• Spouse: Residency valid for the same duration as the primary visa.
• Children: No age limit for unmarried daughters; sons must be under 25.
• Domestic staff: Sponsorship permitted for up to five household employees.