The UAE is home to a large community of expats, including many retirees. According to UAE law, everyone residing in the country must hold a valid UAE residence visa at all times.
Previously, retirees without an employment visa had limited options — either setting up a business in the UAE or obtaining a freelance visa and permit to maintain residency.
However, this changed in 2018 when the UAE introduced a Retirement Programme as part of its broader Golden Visa initiative.
This retirement residency visa is available to expats who are 55 years or older or have completed at least 15 years of service. The visa is valid for five years and can be renewed, provided the applicant continues to meet the eligibility requirements.
Importantly, you can apply for a UAE retirement visa even if you have never lived or worked in the UAE before and simply wish to spend your retirement years in the country — making it a true “golden” opportunity for retirees.
You must have savings of up to AED 1 million (approximately USD 274,000) in a 3-year fixed deposit account.
You must own UAE property valued at a minimum of AED 1 million (around USD 548,000).
You must earn a regular monthly income of at least AED 15,000 (approximately USD 4,100) or AED 180,000 (around USD 50,000) annually.
You are allowed to combine your savings and income to meet the minimum required amount of AED 1 million.
To qualify for the 5-year Retirement Visa in the UAE, you must meet one of the following financial requirements:
You must have savings of at least AED 1 million (approx. USD 274,000) in a three-year fixed deposit with a UAE-based bank.
Additional required documents:
End of service certificate
Proof of funds (stamped and signed) from a UAE bank
A confirmation letter from your bank addressed to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA)
You must own property in Dubai worth a minimum of AED 1 million (approx. USD 548,000). The property can be mortgaged or fully paid, but if mortgaged, your equity must be at least AED 1 million.
Important conditions:
The property must be located in Dubai.
Ownership must be in your personal name or in the name of a company where you are a 100% shareholder.
Mortgages must be partially paid up to at least AED 1 million.
In case of joint ownership, your personal share must equal or exceed AED 1 million.
Off-plan (under-construction) properties are not eligible.
You must have a regular monthly income of at least AED 15,000 (approx. USD 4,100) or AED 180,000 annually (approx. USD 50,000).
Income sources can be from within or outside the UAE, such as pensions or investment returns.
If your proof of income is issued outside the UAE, it must be attested by the UAE Embassy.
Required documents:
6-month bank statement
Official proof of income letter from the relevant institution
You may combine your income and savings to meet the total AED 1 million requirement.
Required documents:
Title deed copy for property valued at minimum AED 500,000 (must meet all ownership and eligibility criteria)
Proof of savings letter issued in Arabic, stamped by a UAE-based bank, addressed to the GDRFAD, confirming at least AED 500,000 held in a 3-year fixed deposit
Passport copies (applicant and dependents — spouse and children)
Marriage certificate and birth certificates (if sponsoring family)
Copy of UAE resident visa (if previously a resident)
UAE entry stamp or tourist visa copy (if applicable)
Original Emirates ID (for applicant and dependents, if applicable)
Visit the GDRFA website: gdrfad.gov.ae
Click on the “Services” menu.
Select “Residency Services”.
Choose “Residence visa for retired foreigner” from the available options.
Click on “Start Service”.
Fill out the required fields with accurate information.
Alternatively, you can visit any AMER Center near you, where the staff can assist you with the entire application process.
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Residency fees | 2,280 AED |
| Emirates ID fees | 575 AED |
| Medical checkup fees | 700 AED |
| Miscellaneous fees | 200 AED |
| TOTAL | 3,755 AED |
VisakingDubai Business Setup Advisors are here to assist you with the requirements and application process for your UAE Retirement Visa.
Contact us today for a consultation and let’s get started on your journey to retirement in the UAE!
Can any expat retire in Dubai?
Yes, any individual can now choose Dubai as their retirement destination. You must meet specific financial requirements to prove you can support yourself. The retirement visa is issued for 5 years and can be renewed multiple times thereafter.
I am not a UAE resident, but I want to apply for a UAE retirement visa. Can I do it?
Yes, you can apply for a Dubai retirement visa even if you have never been a UAE resident. Simply enter Dubai as a tourist and apply for the retirement visa once you meet the necessary financial conditions.
What is the required age to retire in the UAE?
You must be at least 55 years old to be eligible for a UAE retirement visa.
How much monthly income do I need to retire in Dubai?
You must have a minimum monthly income of AED 15,000. To prove this, you will need to provide an income verification letter along with your bank statements for the past 6 months.
Where should I apply for a Dubai retirement visa?
The application process depends on your eligibility:
If applying based on real estate ownership – submit your application through the Dubai Land Department.
If applying based on income or savings – apply through the GDRFAD online portal or at an AMER Typing Center.
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