The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has expanded its Golden Visa program to include donors of Islamic endowments, known as Waqf, granting them ten-year residency under a new humanitarian category. The initiative recognizes philanthropists who contribute to waqf and other charitable projects.
Agreement Signed at GITEX GLOBAL 2025
The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai (GDRFA-Dubai) and the Endowments and Minors Affairs Foundation (Awqaf Dubai) signed the agreement on October 17 during GITEX GLOBAL 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
This collaboration allows eligible donors to apply for residency under the financial supporters of humanitarian work category, as outlined in Cabinet Resolution No. 65 of 2022.
What is Waqf?
Waqf is a traditional Islamic charitable endowment where assets such as land, property, or cash are permanently dedicated for public benefit. Once endowed, the assets can’t be transferred or sold. The income from the assets is used to generate income for social initiatives. This can include:
- Community development
- Schooling
- Public healthcare
Supporting Dubai’s Vision of Sustainable Development
Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA-Dubai, said the following about the partnership:
“This agreement represents a pioneering model of government integration that empowers endowers to play a vital role in community development,”
Under the new system, Awqaf Dubai will nominate the qualified donors based on their eligibility criteria. GDRFA-Dubai will issue the residency permits to the qualifying nominees. There will be a joint committee from both organizations who will oversee the program, including implementation and assessment.
Ali Mohammed Al Mutawa, Secretary General of Awqaf Dubai, said the new initiative is to support:
“Dubai’s vision of making endowment work a key driver of sustainable development” and highlights its role in “fostering social solidarity and shared responsibility.”
Eligibility Criteria and Application Process
Based on recently released information, applicants must:
- Donate at least AED 2 million to a certified waqf or humanitarian project
- Hold at least a university degree
- Be nominated by Awqaf Dubai or another recognized humanitarian organization
Applicants must submit proof of donation, identity documents, and supporting paperwork through GDRFA Smart Services or Amer Centers in Dubai.
Expanding Opportunities Under the Golden Visa
The new humanitarian category follows recent Golden Visa updates in 2025, which extended eligibility to content creators, teachers, nurses, and luxury yacht owners. Most recently, four new categories were introduced in September 2025, including events, AI professionals, multiple entry for tourism, and entertainments visas.
Golden Visa holders also now benefit from 24/7 consular support, reflecting the UAE’s continued efforts to reward excellence, innovation, and social contribution.
Based on our Global Intelligence Unit briefing How Dubai and Abu Dhabi are attracting foreign direct investment:
“The UAE is a leader in innovation within the Arab world, ranking 31st globally in the 2022 Global Innovation Index. Furthermore, Global Citizen Solutions classifies the UAE as a ‘most favorable’ country for investment and ranks it in the 6th position in the Investment segment of the Global Passport Index.”
