Abu Dhabi has rolled out visas for expat professionals, students and investors in a bid to develop the emirate’s culture, healthcare, research and development, and real estate sectors.
The ‘Thrive in Abu Dhabi’ programme offers long-term visas and paths to citizenship to people who contribute to the emirate’s sustainable development.
Among those eligible are professionals within the creative industries, including media and entertainment, academia, conservators and archaeologists.
Students with a PhD or “promising scientific ability either at high school or university level” can also apply to continue their higher education in the emirate, the Abu Dhabi government said.
On the investment side, entrepreneurs willing to contribute to the expansion of financial services, health, biopharma, tourism and real estate will be eligible for a visa as well.
The scheme is also targeting expats looking to make Abu Dhabi their “forever home” by investing in the property market.
Growth
The emirate’s government added: “The Thrive in Abu Dhabi programme promotes long-term golden visas and a pathway to citizenship for international talent working, creating, studying, excelling and investing in key sectors and specialties in Abu Dhabi.
“The UAE’s golden visa is available in Abu Dhabi for international investors and top talent from around the world, providing them with visas for up to 10 years.
“This includes people and researchers in the fields of science and knowledge such as doctors, specialists, scientists and inventors. It is also open to talented creative and sporting individuals, and business, start-up and real estate investors in the emirate.
“Abu Dhabi boasts a number of high-growth areas that are creating opportunities for talented individuals to grow, achieve and succeed. These include creative industries, research and development, healthcare, agriculture, financial services and a thriving start-up ecosystem.”
