Golden Visa for Yacht Owners Launches in Dubai

Dubai has added yacht owners to its Golden Visa program, allowing them to apply for long-term residency, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) announced. The full scope of the initiative will be revealed at the Dubai International Boat Show, which runs from February 19th to the 23rd.

The move follows a similar step taken in Abu Dhabi in 2024, which extended 10-year residency to superyacht owners. That program was introduced to attract high-net-worth individuals to the capital, offering long stays and various incentives.

Golden Visa holders in the UAE can stay outside the country for more than six months at a time and enjoy a decade-long renewal period. The program, launched in 2019, was initially designed for investors, entrepreneurs, and specialized talents before expanding to include other categories.