Dubai: moving with your family - visa guide 2025 for Dutch citizens

Dubai's modern infrastructure, security and tax-friendly environment make it a popular destination for families seeking a high quality of life. If you are a Dutch citizen considering moving to Dubai with your family in 2025, it is crucial to understand the options available for a residency permit. This guide outlines the best routes, addresses specific family concerns, processing times and required documentation, and also includes information on visitor visas for those who want to explore Dubai before settling permanently.

Why Dubai attracts Dutch families

Dubai offers an attractive mix of advantages that attract families from the Netherlands:

• Tax benefits: Enjoy tax-free income and maximize your earnings.
• World Class Education: Access to international schools offering Dutch, British, IB and American curricula.
• Safe and Secure Environment: Benefit from low crime rates and a safe environment.
• Family-Friendly Lifestyle: Enjoy abundant parks, beaches, entertainment centers and family-oriented activities.
• Quality Health Care: Access to advanced medical facilities and services.

A key concern for relocating families is ensuring that all members can legally reside in Dubai. The following visa options are suitable for different family situations:

1. Work visa (employer sponsorship).

If you have a job in Dubai, your employer will usually sponsor your residence permit. Next, you can sponsor your partner and children.

• Process & Timeline: 2-4 weeks total processing time. Your employer will arrange the work permit, entry visa, medical tests and Emirates ID application. Once your visa is approved, you can submit a dependent visa application for your family.
• Family Sponsorship Requirements:
  • Minimum salary of AED 4,000 (about €1,000) or AED 3,000 (about €750) plus accommodation. (Source: UAE Government Visa Portal)
  • Valid employment contract.
  • Certified marriage certificate.
  • Certified and translated birth certificates for children.
  • Note: Partners can also serve as sponsors if they meet the income requirements

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2. Investor visa (entrepreneurs & investors).

Investing in Dubai's business or real estate sector can grant you residency and the opportunity to sponsor your family.

• Visa Duration & Processing Time: 5 or 10-year visa, renewable. 2-6 weeks processing time, depending on company formation.
• Investment requirements:
  • Business Investment: Own at least AED 500,000 (about €125,000) in a business. (Source: Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED))
  • Property investment: Ownership of property worth AED 2 million (about €500,000) qualifies for a 10-year Gold Visa. (Source: Dubai Land Department)
• Key Advantage: Unlike work visas, investor visas do not require a local employer as a sponsor.

3. Freelancer visa (independent professionals)

Freelancer visas allow professionals to work independently in Dubai and sponsor their families.

• Visa Duration & Processing Time: 1-3 years, renewable. 2-4 weeks processing time.
• Eligibility Requirements:
  • Evidence of expertise (portfolio, degree or work experience).
  • Proof of income (minimum of about €3,000 per month).
  • Freelance license (issued by a free zone such as Dubai Media City). (Source: Dubai Media City)

4. Digital nomad visa (remote workers)

Dubai offers a one-year renewable remote working visa for individuals employed by companies outside the UAE.

• Visa Duration & Processing Time: 1-year visa, renewable. 3-5 weeks processing time.
• Prerequisites:
  • Proof of remote works or business ownership outside the UAE.
  • Minimum salary of $3,500 (approximately €3,200) per month.
  • Health insurance coverage in the UAE. (Source: Visit Dubai)

5. Family sponsorship visa (dependents).

Once a Dutch citizen has obtained a residence permit in Dubai, he/she can sponsor his/her partner and children.

• Visa Duration & Processing Time: 1, 2 or 3 years, renewable. 2-4 weeks processing time.
• Required Documents:
  • Certified marriage certificate.
  • Certified and translated birth certificates for children.
  • Salary band with a minimum of AED 4,000 per month.
  • Lease in Dubai.
• Important Note: Children over 18 years old need a student visa if they continue their education in Dubai. (Source: UAE Government Visa Portal)

6. Pension visa (for retirees).

Dubai offers a five-year retirement visa for financially stable individuals aged 55 and older.

• Eligibility Requirements:
  • AED 1 million (about €250,000) in savings.
  • AED 15,000 (about €3,750) monthly income.
  • Property ownership worth AED 1 million (about €250,000). (Source: Retire in Dubai)

7. Visitor visa (exploring Dubai for relocation).

For those who are considering a move but want to experience Dubai first, a visitor visa is a great option. These visas allow you to travel to Dubai for a set period of time, giving you time to explore different areas, research schools and get a feel for the lifestyle.

• Visa Duration & Processing Time: Visitor visa duration varies (usually 30, 60 or 90 days). Processing times are usually short, often within a few days.
• Requirements: Requirements vary, but generally include a valid passport, proof of transit and sometimes proof of sufficient funds. Contact the UAE embassy or consulate in the Netherlands for the most current requirements. (Source: UAE Government Visa Portal)

Visa duration & Validity

Although specific requirements vary by visa type, the most common documents include:

• Valid passport (valid for at least six months).
• Passport photos that comply with UAE regulations.
• Proof of income or investment (depending on visa type).
• Medical examination certificate from an approved clinic in the UAE.
• Application for Emirates ID.
• Proof of accommodation in Dubai (rental contract or proof of ownership).

Choosing the right visa

Dubai offers several accommodation options for Dutch families. Consider your personal circumstances:

• Workers: The work visa is often the fastest route, followed by family sponsorship.
• Entrepreneurs & Investors: The Golden Visa offers long-term residency and sponsorship rights.
• Freelancers & Remote Workers: Freelancer or Digital Nomad visas offer flexible options.
• Retirees: The retirement visa is suitable for those seeking a relaxed lifestyle.
• Explorers: The visitor visa allows you to experience Dubai before making a long-term commitment.

Dubai's high quality of life, robust economy and family-friendly environment make it an attractive destination for Dutch families in 2025. Visit the UAE's official visa portal for the most up-to-date information and to start your application. (It is always recommended that you consult a visa specialist for personal advice).

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