As published in Gulf News
By Anwar Ahmad, Staff Reporter

Up to 10 years visa to be granted to different categories

UAE to start receiving applications for long-term residence visa for investors, entrepreneurs, innovators and talented expatriates

Recipients of 10-year visas in UAE say they ‘give stability, sense of belonging’

Abu Dhabi: The long-term residency visas for expatriates from five select categories has come into force, permitting them to stay in the UAE for up to 10 years, a top official of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship announced in the capital Wednesday.

Announcing details at a media briefing at the General Identity Directorate in Khalifa City of Abu Dhabi, Major-General Saeed Rakan Al Rashedi, Director-General for Foreigners Affairs and Ports, said, “Today we announce the launch of new services in the field of residency, implementing the UAE Cabinet Decision No. 56 for the year 2018. It grants long-term stay in the country to investors, real estate investors, entrepreneurs, talented people like doctors, researchers, innovators and outstanding students.”

“The UAE leadership makes all-out efforts for the development of the country, provides peaceful living for all and facilitates residency visas to residents and expatriates from different walks of life and professional backgrounds who wish to stay in the country,” he said.

Applicants under all these five categories — including outstanding students — will be granted a renewable residency visa and will be permitted to sponsor their spouses and children.