UAE Digital Nomad Visa Requirements 2025: 4 Easy Steps

Are you considering living and working in the United Arab Emirates as a digital nomad? The UAE digital nomad visa, also known as the Virtual Work Residence Visa, is a unique opportunity that offers tax-free income, high-quality amenities, and the chance to experience the modern cities of this Middle Eastern country.

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We aim to provide a concise yet accurate overview of the UAE digital nomad visa requirements and steps. Please let us know if you notice any inaccuracies so we can correct them.

Country:	UAE (United Arab Emirates)
Currency:	Base fees outside the UAE are approximately $101 (372.50 AED); inside the UAE, they are roughly $334 (1,225.90 AED).
UAE Digital Nomad Visa Category:	Virtual Work Residence Visa (Remote work visa for working outside the UAE)
Visa Length:	1 year
Renewable Visa?	Yes. After one year, you can reapply for another year.
UAE Digital Nomad Visa Cost:	Apply from your home country, overseas, or within the UAE.
Income Requirements:	$3,500 (12,856 AED) monthly income
Tax Implications:	One significant advantage of the UAE digital nomad visa is that foreign income is entirely tax-free, making it an attractive option for remote workers.
Dependents Allowed?	Yes. You are welcome to bring a dependent spouse and children. Passports of dependents and proof of medical insurance must be submitted with your application.
Application Location Options:	Apply from your home country, overseas, or within the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

• A passport with a minimum of six months’ validity remaining
• Provide proof that you are working remotely and the business is outside of the UAE
• Proof of employment from one of the following: a current employer with a one-year contract, a minimum of $3,500 per month salary, last month’s payslip, and three preceding months’ bank statements; proof of ownership of a company for a minimum of one year, with an average monthly income of $3,500 per month; or preceding months’ bank statements.
• Proof of health insurance covering you in the UAE for the length of your residency

We use Genki for our travel health insurance as budget digital nomads.

The UAE digital nomad visa application process is straightforward.

1. You can initiate your application process by logging in to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai (GDRFAD) portal.
2. Create a username and password.
3. Choose the service from the menu.
4. Submit the required documents and pay any subsequent fees.

Important Note: If you are in the UAE, applications can also be processed through AMER service centers:

• Toll-free number: 8005111
• International phone number: +971 4 313 99999
• Email: amer@gdrfad.gov.ae

Are you considering living and working remotely as a digital nomad in Dubai or the UAE? Consider the pros and cons.

• Ultra-modern cities with good infrastructure and amenities
• Your income is completely tax-free
• Good quality healthcare
• A wide range of entertainment and recreational activities
• Low crime rate
• Widespread use of English

• High cost of living, especially in Abu Dhabi and Dubai
• High temperatures year-round, with the summer reaching up to 122°F (50°C)
• Some censorship, possible internet restrictions, and restrictions on alcohol consumption

The cost of living in the United Arab Emirates varies by city. While Dubai and Abu Dhabi are known for their higher costs, cities like Sharjah, Ajman, and Ras offer a more affordable lifestyle, giving you options that suit your budget.

1 Bedroom Apartment:	Dubai: $2,160+ (city center) and $1,326+ (outside city center) Sharjah: $920+ (city center) and $875+ (outside city center)
Food:	$244+ per adult
Utilities:	$202+
Data Plan:	$40 to $62 for a 10 GB data plan
Single Fare Public Transport:	$0.80 to $2.04

1. Abu Dhabi (capital city)
2. Dubai
3. Fujairah
4. Ras Al Khaimah
5. Sharjah

There’s no shortage of things to do in the UAE. From exploring the Arabian Desert to scuba diving in the Gulf of Oman, the country offers a diverse range of activities to entertain and engage you.

1. Burj Khalifa: The tallest building in the world. Take in the view from the observation deck on the 148th floor. They sometimes have great discounts for UAE residents.
2. Sheikh Zayed Mosque and Al Noor Mosque: These magnificent, exquisite mosques are open to non-Muslim visitors. Book an affordable professional photo session with Viator at Sheik Zayed Mosque.
3. Al Ain and Al Jahili Fort: An oasis that used to be a stop on an old caravan route.
4. Arabian Desert: Explore the desert landscape to catch the sunset or sunrise over the sand dunes.
5. Al Zorah Nature Reserve: A wetland reserve with nearly 60 species of birds, where you can take canoe trips or go hiking and biking.
6. Scuba Dive: Go underwater among the vibrant coral and marine life in the Gulf of Oman.

We researched and compiled seventeen of the best-quality Viator excursions in the UAE. Book and plan ahead with free cancellation.

The UAE digital nomad visa offers an attractive opportunity for remote workers to live and work in a unique and vibrant environment, while enjoying the tax benefits and excellent facilities that the United Arab Emirates has to offer.

If you’re unsure about the UAE, go to our comprehensive list of digital nomad visas for alternative options.

Don’t forget to buy travel health insurance for your UAE digital nomad application.

These are the most frequently asked questions about the digital nomad visa for the UAE.