Work remotely from Dubai for your foreign employer or clients. Live in one of the world's most dynamic cities with 0% personal income tax, world-class infrastructure, and year-round sunshine.
The Dubai Virtual Working Programme (also known as the UAE Remote Work Visa or Digital Nomad Visa) allows foreign nationals to live in Dubai while working remotely for employers or clients based outside the UAE. Launched in 2020 and continuously improved, this visa is designed for:
You don't need to register a UAE company or find a local sponsor. The visa allows you to enjoy Dubai's lifestyle, infrastructure, safety, and tax benefits while maintaining your existing employment or business relationships abroad.
Keep 100% of your income. The UAE has no personal income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax for residents.
Ultra-fast fiber internet (avg. 238 Mbps), 500+ co-working spaces, reliable utilities, and 24/7 cafes for remote work.
Dubai's GMT+4 time zone overlaps with Europe mornings and Asia afternoons. Direct flights to 260+ destinations worldwide.
Sponsor your spouse, children, and parents to live with you in Dubai. Family members receive residence visas too.
Ranked #1 safest city in the Middle East and #7 globally. World-class healthcare, schools, and lifestyle amenities.
1-year visa renewable indefinitely as long as you meet income requirements. No minimum stay requirement.
You must meet ONE of the following financial criteria, plus the general requirements below:
Gather all required documents based on your category (employee vs. freelancer). Ensure payslips/bank statements are recent (within 3 months) and translated to English if needed.
Apply through an authorized typing center, PRO service, or directly via the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) portal. Upload all documents and pay the application fee (AED 287 non-refundable).
Immigration authorities verify your documents (2-5 business days). If approved, you'll receive entry permit to enter the UAE. Upon arrival, complete medical fitness test (blood test + chest X-ray) at approved centers (cost: AED 300-500).
Visit a Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) center for biometrics (fingerprints, photo). Apply for your Emirates ID card (mandatory for all UAE residents). Fee: AED 370 (including AED 70 for electronic services).
Once medical test results are clear and Emirates ID is processed, your residence visa will be stamped in your passport at an immigration office or typing center. Your 1-year Virtual Work Visa is now active!
Total processing time: 4-6 weeks from application submission to visa stamp
| Item | Cost (AED) | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
Application Fee Non-refundable processing fee | AED 287 | ~$78 |
Entry Permit Fee For visa pre-approval | AED 370 | ~$101 |
Medical Fitness Test Blood test + X-ray (mandatory) | AED 300-500 | ~$82-136 |
Emirates ID ID card + e-services fee | AED 370 | ~$101 |
Residence Visa Stamping Fee Final visa stamp in passport | AED 1,180 | ~$321 |
Health Insurance (Annual) Mandatory UAE coverage (basic plan) | AED 1,500-3,000 | ~$408-817 |
Typing Center / PRO Service (Optional) If using agent for document processing | AED 1,000-2,500 | ~$272-680 |
Total Cost (Self-Application) Without agent services | AED 4,007-5,707 | ~$1,091-1,554 |
Total Cost (With Agent) All-inclusive service | AED 5,000-8,000 | ~$1,361-2,178 |
* Costs are approximate and may vary. Exchange rate: 1 USD = 3.67 AED
| Feature | Virtual Work Visa | Freelance Visa | Tourist Visa |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visa Duration | 1 year (renewable) | 1-3 years | 30-90 days |
| Work for Foreign Clients | ✗ | ||
| Work for UAE Companies | ✗ | ✗ | |
| Family Sponsorship | ✗ | ||
| Need UAE Company | No | Yes | No |
| Tax Residency Eligible | Yes (183 days) | Yes (183 days) | No |
| Cost (First Year) | ~$1,100-1,500 | ~$4,000-8,000 | ~$100-300 |
| Best For | Remote employees, digital nomads | Freelancers serving UAE clients | Short stays, tourism |
Get your Virtual Work Visa approved in 4-6 weeks. We handle all documentation, PRO services, medical tests, and Emirates ID for a seamless experience.