UAE: The United Arab Emirates has announced a new consular support service for Golden Visa holders to provide assistance during emergencies abroad, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) confirmed on Tuesday, October 14.

This initiative includes a dedicated 24-hour hotline specifically for Golden Visa holders, ensuring they are included in emergency and evacuation plans during crises and disasters. The service aims to offer essential care and coordination with relevant authorities in exceptional situations.

In addition, the program covers repatriation and burial arrangements for Golden Visa holders who pass away while overseas. Families will be able to complete all necessary formalities quickly through simplified consular procedures, with support provided during the process.

Golden Visa holders can contact the MoFA Call Centre directly via the dedicated hotline at +971 24 931133 for assistance.

If a Golden Visa holder loses or damages their passport while abroad, MoFA will facilitate their return to the UAE by issuing an electronic Return Document, available through the ministry’s website.

The UAE introduced the Golden Visa in 2019 as a long-term residency program that allows foreign nationals to live, work, and study in the country without the need for a local sponsor or employer.

Eligibility for the Golden Visa covers a wide range of individuals, including investors, real estate owners, entrepreneurs, exceptional students, frontline workers, and specialists in science and engineering.

Recently, Dubai began offering the Golden Visa to outstanding gamers, content creators, and influencers, while Ras Al Khaimah extended eligibility to distinguished teachers. In 2024, Abu Dhabi announced it would grant the visa to superyacht owners as part of its efforts to attract high-net-worth residents.

Applicants can obtain a Golden Visa by contacting the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai. Applications can be made at designated service centres or through the ICP’s official website.