Dubai Digital Nomad Visa: Your Guide to Remote Work in Dubai

Would you like to work remotely from a city full of opportunities? If so, then Dubai might be the place for you. The Dubai remote work visa, officially known as the ‘Dubai Virtual Working Programme’, allows you to live and work remotely in Dubai for a year. Let’s look at how you can benefit from this program. 

What is the Dubai Digital Nomad Visa?

The UAE’s Virtual Work Residence Visa and Dubai’s Virtual Working Programme are essentially digital nomad visas that allow individuals working outside the UAE to reside in the country while working remotely. 

The virtual work residence visa allows remote workers and entrepreneurs worldwide to live and work in the UAE for up to one year through self-sponsorship. The application process requires proof of remote working from a company outside the UAE and a minimum monthly salary of USD 3,500 (or the equivalent in another currency). 

Dubai’s virtual working programme aims to bring talented people to Dubai and make it a centre for digital innovation. It’s for those living and working outside the UAE, entrepreneurs, and start-up companies, who can continue working remotely while living in Dubai. 

Digital nomads in Dubai don’t have to pay any income tax, making it a great place to maximise earnings. You can also benefit from Dubai’s brilliant infrastructure, take advantage of the networking opportunities, and live alongside a vibrant expatriate community.

Who is eligible for the Dubai Digital Nomad Visa?

If you are thinking about applying for the Virtual Working Programme in Dubai, here are the following requirements to prove your eligibility.

If you work for a company:

• Employed by a non-UAE company, with a contract of at least one year

• Prove that you can work remotely (e.g. employment contract or a letter from your employer)

• Earn a salary of at least USD 5,000 (AED 18,364) per month, or the equivalent in other currencies

• Provide the salary payslip for the last month and bank statements for the preceding three months

If you own a company:

• Provide proof of ownership of the company for at least one year

• Have an average monthly income of USD 5,000 (AED 18,364) per month

• Provide bank statements of the company for the preceding three months

How to apply for the Dubai Digital Nomad Visa

If you want to make Dubai your new home office, here's how to apply for the Dubai digital nomad visa:

First, you’ll need to gather the required documents for the application. 

To apply, you’ll need the following:
 

• Passport (valid for a minimum of 6 months)

• Health insurance with UAE coverage (valid for at least a year) 

• Proof of employment with a letter or statement to prove remote working

• Proof of salary

• Bank statements (for the last 6 months)

• Passport-style photo 

Note - Applying for the programme does not guarantee approval of the application. 

Depending on how you apply for the Virtual Work Visa, you may be required to submit different documents. Refer to the official website before proceeding with your application. 

How much is the Digital Nomad Visa?

Based on where you apply, the cost of the visa and documents required vary. 

If you’re applying outside Dubai, as of August 2024, the base fees cost USD 101 (AED 372.5) including VAT. Applications can be made through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigner Affairs Dubai (GDRFAD). 

The application can also be made in Dubai but with additional fees, costing USD 334 (AED 1,225.9) including VAT. Apply through GDRFAD or via an Amer service centre. 

In total, the visa costs from USD 611, including application costs, processing fees, pre-application medical exam and the Emirates ID. 

The fees for the virtual working programme are subject to change, so check the latest costs before applying. 

Can I renew the visa after one year?

The visa only lasts a year but can be renewed upon re-application once your previous visa expires. 

Can I sponsor family members under this visa?

Under this programme, you can sponsor your spouse and children.

What services can I access with this visa?

The visa will allow you access to residential services, meaning you can set up banking, rent a property or car, and enrol children into schools. 

Can I leave the UAE and return whilst on this visa?

The visa allows unlimited entries and exits from the UAE. However, you cannot leave the country for more than 6 months continuously. If you do so, the visa will be cancelled. 

Can I apply if I am already a resident of Dubai?

The visa is not available to those already under a residence visa, or in the process of applying for a different visa. 

Living and working in Dubai as a Digital Nomad

Dubai offers a great lifestyle for digital nomads. Here are some important things to think about:

Accommodation

Choosing the right neighbourhood is important for your Dubai experience. Dubai has many different types of places to live for all budgets. Think about how close it is to coworking spaces, cafes, and public transportation. 

Popular areas include Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, Dubai Marina, and Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR). These places have modern amenities, chances to meet people and a good environment for remote work.

Networking and Professional Development

Dubai offers great chances to meet people and grow professionally. Consider joining groups for expats and digital nomads through social media. Many industry events and conferences occur throughout the year allowing you to learn new skills, meet more professionals, and widen your network. 

Is the Dubai Digital Nomad Visa worth it?

The Dubai digital nomad visa allows you to live in one of the world’s most exciting cities. 

If you're thinking about moving to Dubai or want a first-hand experience of the city, the digital nomad visa could be a great way to experience what life is like. With no income tax, great infrastructure, and a friendly community of people from other countries, Dubai is a top choice for remote workers looking for a new adventure.

If you need any advice regarding your move to Dubai, contact Capture Accounting and we’ll be happy to help.