Big visa changes in the UAE: here's what's new in 2025
Here are the biggest updates worth knowing… AI-powered visa processing with Salama
Say goodbye to long queues and paperwork. The Salama system, launched by Dubai's General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), is a new AI-powered platform that makes the visa process smarter and more seamless. You'll be able to apply, track, and pay online for most visa types. Think of it as your new digital front desk. The new Blue Visa for environmental advocates
In a move that underlines the UAE's sustainability goals, the Blue Visa is a new 10-year residency granted to individuals making impactful contributions to the environment. This includes marine biologists, environmental scientists, climate researchers, sustainability experts and members of influential NGOs. It's part of the UAE's broader push to lead in climate tech and conservation. Golden Visas for gaming professionals
Gamers, this one's for you. Under the Dubai Gaming Visa Programme 2033, professional esports players, developers, and gaming creatives aged 25+ can now apply for a 10-year Golden Visa. With the UAE investing billions in building a regional gaming hub, it's a clear signal that digital talent is top priority. Creators and filmmakers now eligible
The Creators Platform (Creators HQ) has opened up Golden Visa eligibility for content creators, filmmakers, YouTubers, podcasters, and other digital creatives. If you've built an audience and created meaningful work in the UAE's media space, you could be eligible for long-term residency—especially helpful for freelancers and independent creators. Golden Visas for nurses with 15+ years' service
Dubai Health has expanded its Golden Visa programme to include senior nurses and frontline medical workers who have served for 15 years or more. It's a major recognition of their vital contributions, especially during the pandemic years, and strengthens the UAE's healthcare workforce. No Golden Visa for crypto investors – yet
Contrary to some online speculation, crypto investors and traders are not currently eligible for a Golden Visa in the UAE. While the country remains bullish on blockchain technology, the investment criteria have not yet extended to cryptocurrencies. Faster online applications
As part of its digital overhaul, the GDRFA has rolled out user-friendly online services to apply for, renew, or track the status of various visas. This includes employment visas, family sponsorship, and Golden Visa applications. All you need is your Emirates ID, passport, and a few scanned documents. Expanded visa-on-arrival options for Indians
Indian passport holders with valid visas or residency permits from select countries — including the US, UK, EU, Australia, and Canada — are now eligible for visa on arrival in the UAE. This is a game-changer for frequent travellers and expats with global mobility. The bigger picture
All these updates reflect the UAE's continued ambition to attract global talent across key sectors — from healthcare, education and tech to climate innovation and creative media. Whether you're building a startup, curating culture, or protecting the planet, 2025's visa updates are designed to make your life (and your future) in the UAE much easier. Key takeaways: Check if your profession now qualifies for Golden or Blue Visas
Make use of the Salama platform for online applications
Creatives, gamers, and sustainability experts are now in focus
Visa processing is faster, smarter, and more accessible than ever
Stay tuned to What's On for more updates on residency, work permits and life in the UAE.
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Crypto Insight
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- Crypto Insight
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With no personal income or capital gains tax and recent VAT exemptions on crypto transactions, the UAE provides an unmatched financial incentive for crypto investors. Dubai's VARA and Abu Dhabi's FSRA lead with retail and institutional frameworks, while RAK, Sharjah and others are developing tailored zones and policies for Web3 innovation. Free zones like DMCC, ADGM and DIFC offer business-ready ecosystems, while high-speed internet, 5G and cloud services make the UAE a plug-and-play hub for crypto firms. The Golden Visa, safety, global connectivity and smart city living combine to offer crypto millionaires not just financial freedom but a secure, luxurious home base. In recent years, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has emerged as a magnet for crypto millionaires. 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Tax-free crypto profits: Zero taxes on income and gains The UAE's zero-tax policy on crypto gains — no income tax, no capital gains tax — is a prime draw for global crypto investors. Crypto millionaires in the UAE enjoy 100% tax-free crypto profits, as the nation imposes no personal income tax or capital gains tax on individuals. This means Bitcoin billionaires, non-fungible token (NFT) moguls and startup founders can cash out or reinvest their digital wealth without handing a cut to the taxman — a stark contrast to high-tax jurisdictions in Europe or North America. Even after the UAE introduced a 9% federal corporate tax in 2023, personal crypto holdings remain untaxed and tax-free crypto profits are fully legal. Crucially, the government has gone a step further by exempting most crypto transactions from the 5% value-added tax (VAT). In late 2024, the UAE's Federal Tax Authority announced that cryptocurrency transfers and conversions would be VAT-exempt effective Nov. 15, 2024 (retroactively applied to transactions since 2018). This VAT exemption covers crypto trading and exchange services, treating them on par with other financial services. The result is a virtually tax-free environment for crypto market participants, whether they are mining Bitcoin, trading on exchanges or realizing gains from token investments. Industry insiders highlight that the UAE's combination of clear regulations and zero capital gains tax has created the 'perfect environment for crypto growth.' Did you know? Over 74% of UAE residents aged 25-34 are interested in crypto, and 21% plan to enter the market within the next 12 months. 2. Regulatory clarity: World-leading crypto frameworks in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and beyond Clarity and certainty in regulation are paramount for crypto entrepreneurs, and the UAE delivers with pioneering frameworks. Dubai: Retail-focused clarity Dubai led the charge by establishing the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) in 2022, the world's first regulator dedicated exclusively to virtual assets. Backed by Dubai's new virtual asset law, VARA provides clear licensing regimes for exchanges, crypto platforms and token issuers, instilling confidence for companies setting up shop. Major crypto exchanges such as Binance and have obtained VARA licenses, reflecting Dubai's attractiveness under well-defined rules. Abu Dhabi: Institutional-grade compliance Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi was an early mover in crypto oversight through the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). As far back as 2018, the FSRA introduced a comprehensive regulatory framework for virtual assets, the first of its kind in the Gulf Cooperation Council region, covering everything from exchange licensing to custody rules. This regulatory clarity in the ADGM has drawn institutional players; by late 2023, global firms such as Copper, Paxos and eToro had expanded into Abu Dhabi under the FSRA's purview. Abu Dhabi's approach typically targets institutional and high-capital crypto activities, complementing Dubai's more retail-focused market. Crucially, the UAE is working to harmonize crypto regulations federally: Dubai's VARA and the UAE's Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) struck an agreement on mutual recognition, allowing VARA-licensed firms to operate across the UAE. This means a crypto exchange licensed in Dubai's free zone can serve customers in other emirates, further integrating the national market. Ras Al Khaimah: Specialized Web3 jurisdiction Other emirates are also advancing regulatory initiatives. Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) made headlines by launching the RAK Digital Assets Oasis (RAK DAO), touted as the world's first free zone exclusively for digital asset companies. Established by law in 2023, RAK DAO is a specialized zone with independent authority under the new Department of the Future, granting it financial and legislative autonomy to craft crypto-friendly rules. It targets Web3 and virtual asset service providers, from metaverse builders to NFT platforms, offering them a tailor-made, common-law regime. This bold move positions RAK as a future-focused jurisdiction keen to attract blockchain business. Sharjah, Ajman, UAQ, Fujairah: Emerging frontiers Likewise, Sharjah has shown interest in blockchain applications. Umm Al Quwain and Ajman are exploring fintech and digital economy initiatives, signaling that every emirate is embracing innovation. While Dubai and Abu Dhabi set the regulatory gold standard, the unified theme is clarity, clear rules, specialist regulators and proactive laws, which gives crypto investors and companies the confidence to relocate to the UAE knowing where they stand legally. Did you know? Telegram founder Pavel Durov has called Dubai home since 2017 and is now a UAE citizen. Once named the richest expat in the UAE, he ranked as the world's 120th richest person in 2024. 3. Cutting-edge infrastructure: Crypto zones, hubs and innovation ecosystems A supportive infrastructure underpins the UAE's crypto appeal. Across the emirates, there's a network of free zones, hubs and accelerators purpose-built for fintech and digital assets. Dubai In Dubai, the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) has established a renowned Crypto Centre, a comprehensive ecosystem hosting over 650 blockchain and digital asset companies as of mid-2025. Within this hub, crypto startups find co-working spaces, incubators and a supportive community, alongside access to DMCC's business services. Similarly, the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), while traditionally focused on finance, now accommodates a thriving fintech and crypto scene through its Innovation Hub and the DFSA's regulatory sandbox for digital tokens. Abu Dhabi In Abu Dhabi, the ADGM on Al Maryah Island has become a crypto and blockchain innovation hub in its own right. ADGM operates under English common law and boasts a robust fintech ecosystem (Hub71) that, in 2023, launched a $2-billion+ initiative to fund Web3 and blockchain startups. Over 5,000 Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) for wealth and business structuring have been set up in ADGM, a meteoric rise from just 46 SPVs in 2016. This signals how many family offices, investment funds and crypto project founders are choosing Abu Dhabi's infrastructure to park assets and build new ventures. Even Binance's ex-CEO, Changpeng 'CZ' Zhao, and other global billionaires have established holding companies in ADGM, leveraging its robust legal framework and crypto-friendly regulations. Sharjah and beyond Sharjah, known for its academic prowess, is contributing to infrastructure by nurturing human capital and innovation. The emirate hosts the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park and recently launched a blockchain academy in partnership with layer-1 blockchain Sui at the American University of Sharjah. Through such initiatives, Sharjah is building a pipeline of blockchain talent and startups, complementing the physical infrastructure with intellectual infrastructure. Further east, Fujairah is developing tech-friendly free zones (like Fujairah Creative City) and exploring blockchain use cases in sectors such as supply chain and finance, aiming to diversify its economy with digital ventures. Ajman and Umm Al Quwain, while smaller, also offer cost-effective free zone licenses and supportive business environments for crypto-related startups, ensuring that entrepreneurs have options beyond the big cities. Importantly, the UAE's world-class digital infrastructure, ubiquitous high-speed internet, 5G networks and cloud data centers provides the backbone for any crypto or blockchain operation. Whether in Dubai's bustling crypto co-working spaces or RAK's new digital assets zone, crypto investors find a plug-and-play infrastructure ready to support their endeavors. 4. National blockchain and metaverse ambitions of visionary government The UAE's emergence as a crypto hub is no accident; it's the product of deliberate, forward-looking government vision. The country's leadership has woven blockchain and digital assets into its broader national strategies for innovation. Strategic national goals As early as 2018, the UAE unveiled Blockchain Strategy 2021, aiming to transfer 50% of government transactions onto blockchain platforms by 2021. This push not only streamlined public services but also signaled to the world that the UAE was serious about adopting crypto's underlying technology at scale. Building on that momentum, Dubai launched an ambitious Dubai Metaverse Strategy in 2022, with the goal of making the emirate one of the global top 10 metaverse economies. The strategy targets adding 4 billion UAE dirhams ($1.1 billion) to the economy in five years and creating 40,000 virtual jobs by 2030. Initiatives under this plan include attracting 1,000 blockchain and metaverse companies (Dubai already had 1,000 firms in this space by 2022) and integrating metaverse tech into tourism, education and government services. In practice, this means Dubai's government is actively experimenting with NFTs, virtual real estate and immersive digital services, fostering a climate where crypto-related ideas are welcomed rather than shunned. Federal support At the federal level, the UAE has a National AI Strategy and a Digital Economy Strategy, under which blockchain and crypto are key components for diversifying beyond oil. High-level ministers (such as the minister of state for artificial intelligence, digital economy and remote work) champion crypto and metaverse projects, ensuring policy support at the top. Regional alignment Each emirate is finding its niche under this vision. Abu Dhabi, for instance, through Hub71 and ADGM, focuses on big-ticket Web3 investments and institutional adoption (including a government-backed $2-billion fund for Web3 startups). Dubai focuses on retail crypto adoption, blockchain in everyday services and emerging tech like tokenized assets and AI integration in finance. Ras Al Khaimah's creation of the RAK Digital Assets Oasis aligns with the national vision to become a 'global crypto capital,' enabling RAK to specialize in nurturing early-stage Web3 innovators in a sandbox-like environment. Even Sharjah's emphasis on education (like the American University of Sharjah Blockchain Academy) echoes the strategic goal of building human infrastructure for a blockchain-based economy. The government's pro-crypto vision is also evident in international partnerships; for example, Dubai's leadership has inked agreements with global crypto firms (like a recent deal with to develop blockchain solutions for real estate transactions) to pilot new use cases. All these efforts, including blockchain strategies, metaverse roadmaps and tech parks, create a clear message: The UAE sees crypto and digital assets as integral to its future. This vision and openness reassure crypto entrepreneurs that by relocating to the UAE, they are aligning with a country that wants their industry to thrive. Did you know? The TON Foundation's offer of UAE golden visas to Toncoin stakers was quickly denied by local regulators, exposing a legal misstep . Despite support from influencers, including Telegram's Pavel Durov, the plan clashed with strict UAE crypto marketing laws, highlighting the need for proper legal reviews. 5. Residency opportunities: Golden visas and an elite global lifestyle Beyond the formal policies, the UAE offers an enviable lifestyle and residency benefits that strongly attract wealthy individuals, including crypto millionaires. Key highlights include: The UAE's Golden Visa program, a long-term 10-year residency visa, has been a game-changer for investors, entrepreneurs and talented professionals. Crypto founders who qualify (for example, by investing in UAE businesses or real estate or by attaining success in the tech sector) can obtain a Golden Visa, securing a decade of residency for themselves and their families with no local sponsor required. The Golden Visa's allure is its stability and simplicity: It lets expatriates safely base themselves in the UAE, open bank accounts, buy property and even sponsor family members with ease. In 2024, the government expanded the visa categories dramatically, introducing new sponsor-free residency tracks for everyone from digital content creators to even luxury yacht owners. This inclusive approach signals that innovators of all stripes are welcome. A crypto hedge fund manager or blockchain developer can move to Dubai or Abu Dhabi, knowing they can secure long-term residency as easily as a more traditional investor. The lifestyle advantages of the UAE are equally compelling. Dubai and Abu Dhabi consistently rank among the safest cities globally, with low crime and high political stability, a 'safe haven status' that wealthy families highly value. Modern infrastructural amenities abound: world-class hospitals, international schools and universities, luxury malls and restaurants, and vibrant arts and culture scenes. For crypto millionaires used to international travel, the UAE's strategic location is a boon: Dubai and Abu Dhabi are major aviation hubs with direct flights connecting Europe, Asia and Africa within eight hours. This global connectivity allows investors to manage businesses across continents while enjoying a home base in the emirates. Moreover, the quality of life is bolstered by cutting-edge smart city initiatives. For instance, UAE cities are investing in smart governance (you can pay government fees in crypto for select services and digital amenities, such as high-speed 5G, widespread crypto ATMs and even real estate deals via blockchain). The day-to-day lifestyle, from sunny weather and luxury real estate to five-star entertainment and outdoor recreation, is often compared to a perpetual vacation. Such perks have not gone unnoticed by the crypto elite: Numerous crypto conferences (like Token 2049), blockchain summits and networking events now take place in Dubai annually, reinforcing the sense of a thriving community. Crucially, the UAE also offers comfort on the legal and financial front: strong banking infrastructure with private banking services tailored to high-net-worth individuals and new family-friendly legal reforms (like secular options for marriage/inheritance) that provide expatriate families more certainty. The crypto future is being built in the emirates The UAE presents crypto millionaires not just a place to do business, but an upscale, convenient lifestyle and a secure home. It's a combination of tax-free crypto profits by day and luxury living by night that is hard to match elsewhere. From Dubai's bold metaverse ambitions to Abu Dhabi's institutional-grade infrastructure and Ras Al Khaimah's Web3-first regulatory sandbox, each emirate plays a unique role in shaping the UAE as a comprehensive crypto haven. With visionary governance, cutting-edge infrastructure and a welcoming environment for innovators, the UAE isn't just accommodating crypto — it's actively shaping its global future. In 2025 and beyond, the UAE's message to crypto entrepreneurs is clear: Bring your ideas, bring your capital and build your future here. It's a call that's resonating around the world and one that continues to draw the blockchain elite to this crypto-friendly oasis in the desert. Source:
