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Retirement Visa for Dubai - Types, Requirements, Cost, and Application Process

Duration

5 years (renewable)

Eligibility
  • Individuals aged 55 years or older.
  • Must meet one of the following financial criteria:
    • Monthly income of at least AED 20,000, OR
    • Savings or assets of at least AED 1 million, OR
    • Ownership of property in Dubai worth at least AED 2 million.
  • Health insurance coverage in Dubai is mandatory.
  • Applicants must provide proof of financial capability to support long term residency in the UAE.

 

How to Apply
  • Applications are processed through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai.
  • Applicants can also apply via approved government partners such as Dubai Tourism (Retire in Dubai program) or designated real estate and legal consultants.
  • All applicants must submit documentation proving they meet age, financial, and insurance requirements.
  • Assistance may also be available through licensed PRO services for smoother processing.

 

Cost
  • Retirement Visa Fee: AED 1,150 – AED 2,500 (depending on application route and services used)
  • Medical Test & Emirates ID: AED 800 – AED 1,500
  • Health Insurance: Varies by provider, age, and medical condition (usually AED 2,000 – AED 7,000 annually)

🚨 Note: Costs may vary depending on the application process, insurance coverage, and other specific conditions. Always verify with official sources before applying.

 

Documentation Required
  • Passport copy (valid for at least 6 months)
  • Proof of age (birth certificate or passport)
  • Proof of income, savings, or property ownership (bank statements, pension letters, or property title deeds)
  • Health insurance coverage (valid in the UAE)
  • Proof of financial stability (bank records, investment portfolios, etc.)

 

Processing Time

10 to 15 working days (may vary based on document verification and approval)

 

Extension & Renewal
  • Renewable every 5 years, as long as the age and financial requirements continue to be met.
  • Visa holders must keep health insurance active and maintain valid residency documentation.

 

Additional Notes
  • Retirees can sponsor immediate family members, including spouses and children under 18.
  • Employment is not permitted, but retirees can own and manage businesses or invest in real estate and financial assets.
  • Dubai’s tax free income, world class healthcare, and luxury lifestyle make it a top choice for retirement.
  • This visa offers long term stability and removes the need for a corporate sponsor, making it a great option for retirees seeking independence.


 Living in Dubai, I can confidently say that the Retirement Visa is a fantastic option for those who want to enjoy their golden years in a safe, modern, and vibrant city. With great healthcare, international connections, and endless entertainment options, Dubai is more than just a stopover, it’s a place you can comfortably call home. If you’re financially ready, this visa opens the door to a peaceful and rewarding lifestyle in the UAE.