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With this residency programme, expat workers in Dubai can now work remotely from the emirate for companies based in their home country
15 October 2020
| Last updated on 15 October 2020
The initiative enables applicants to benefit from the tax-free salaries given to UAE workers
Dubai launched a remote working programme where employees can live in Dubai while working remotely for companies overseas.
The new residency visa gives remote workers, as well as their families, the option to live in the emirate on an annual basis.
According to the Dubai Media Office, those who take part in the residency programme can also benefit from Dubai's zero income tax for employees. They will also receive other benefits provided to permanent residents.
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The move aims to encourage more professionals who are employed globally to relocate to the city.
We've compiled everything you need to know about the remote working programme for overseas employees in Dubai, including how do you get it, what are the requirements, how much it costs and who's eligible.
What are the benefits of the virtual working programme?
Along with the ability to live in Dubai while continuing to virtually work for their employers who are based in another country, this unique programme has the following benefits:
- Tax-free salaries for UAE residents
- Phone and internet
- Utilities
- Schooling for children
What is the cost of the residency scheme?
The remote working programme is valid for one year and costs USD 287, excluding medical insurance and processing fee per person.
Who can apply for Dubai's new residency programme?
To apply for Dubai's new residency programme, you will need to meet the requirements listed below. Ideally, you will need to be able to work virtually from Dubai.
Entrepreneurs and business owners can also apply for the programme.
What is the eligibility criteria?
To be eligible to apply for the remote worker programme, you will need the following:
- Passport with at least 6-months validity
- Health insurance with UAE coverage validity
- Proof of employment from your current employer with a one-year contract validity
- Last month's payslip
- 3 preceding months' bank statements
- Minimum monthly salary of USD 5,000 monthly
- If the applicant is a company or businessowner, you will need to provide proof of ownership for one year or more, with an average monthly income of USD 5,000 and 3 preceding months' bank statements
“The global pandemic has changed how we live and work," said Helal Almarri, Director General of the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing in Dubai.
"As multinationals and leading start-ups across the world accelerate their rates of digital adoption, the need to be physically present to fulfill professional responsibilities has been redefined. People continue to prioritise their health, well-being and ability to ensure a positive work-life balance," Almarri continued.
"Dubai is uniquely positioned to offer a safe, dynamic lifestyle opportunity to these digitally savvy workers and their families while they continue to work remotely, whether it is for a couple of months or an entire year.”
The project is part of Dubai's strategy to elevate the emirate's status as a prime location for professionals to live and work in.
Sami Al Qazmi, Director General of Dubai's Department of Economic Development, said: "With its advanced infrastructure, global connectivity and pro-business ecosystem, the virtual working programme gives Dubai a significant opportunity to enhance business practices and maximise growth,"
