United Arab Emirates · digital nomad
UAE Virtual Working Programme
1-year residence for remote workers employed by companies outside the UAE.
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Overview
Dubai's Virtual Working Programme (also extended across the UAE as the Remote Work Visa) lets remote workers live in the UAE on 1-year residence while working for a non-UAE employer. Tax residency benefits attract workers from high-tax jurisdictions.
Government fees
Programme fee around USD 611 plus medical and Emirates ID.
Typical duration
1 year, renewable.
Eligibility
Typical criteria
Employment with a non-UAE company, or self-employment with non-UAE clients.
Monthly income of at least USD 3,500.
Valid health insurance covering UAE.
Common blockers
Income below $3,500/month threshold.
UAE-based income.
Typical evidence
Employment contract or client contracts.
Recent payslips or bank statements.
Health insurance certificate.
Application pathway
Step 1
Apply online via programme portal
Dubai runs its own portal; federal equivalents exist.
Step 2
Travel and complete medical/Emirates ID
On arrival.
Step 3
Renew annually or transition
Renewable; transition to Green or Golden Visa possible if criteria met.
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Frequently asked questions
Does the UAE Remote Work Visa have tax benefits?
The UAE has no personal income tax. Whether this affects your overall tax position depends on your home-country tax residency rules — many countries continue to tax worldwide income for their tax residents. Take specialist tax advice.
Need tailored advice?
We do not provide legal advice. For an application that depends on your exact circumstances, consult a regulator-listed immigration advisor.
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