UAE Virtual Work Residence Permit (Dubai)
Dubai’s virtual working / remote-work residence is a one-year, self-sponsored permit for people employed by a company outside the UAE, with a published income floor around USD 3,500 a month. Apply on the GDRFA service. Evergreen as a product. You are not incorporating. You are not joining Hub71. You are renting the right to live in Dubai while your employer stays abroad. If you want to sell from a UAE company, get a licence instead.
DESK TAKE
A lifestyle visa with a salary test. Useful for remote employees. Useless as a founder plan. Do not confuse it with the Green or Golden paths.
ELIGIBILITY
For remote workers and founders whose employer or business is entirely outside the UAE. - You work remotely for an organisation outside the UAE (proof of remote work required) - Monthly income of at least USD 3,500 (salary certificate or equivalent in foreign currency) - Valid health insurance covering the UAE, plus a medical fitness test after entry - Passport valid 6+ months; no UAE sponsor or local clients allowed - 1-year permit, renewable; 60-day grace period after expiry; apply via GDRFA Dubai smart services (UAE Pass), ~48-hour processing; fee AED 200 + surcharges
QUESTIONS
Can I start a UAE company on this visa?
Residency and licensing are separate. This permit assumes your job is abroad.
Is it Dubai-only?
The service we indexed is the Dubai GDRFA product.