The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has unveiled a series of new benefits for Golden Visa holders, giving long-term residents access to consular services previously available only to Emirati citizens.
The announcement, made by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) in collaboration with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) during the 45th edition of GITEX GLOBAL 2025, reflects the UAE’s continued efforts to strengthen community ties under the “Year of Community” initiative, themed “Hand in Hand” by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE.
According to MoFA, the new benefits are “unprecedented” and represent “the first of their kind,” reinforcing the country’s leadership in residency innovation and citizen support systems.
Full Consular Support for Residents Abroad
Holders of the UAE Golden Visa and their dependent family members will now have access to the same range of consular services as Emirati citizens when traveling outside the UAE. The initiative ensures that long-term residents can receive prompt assistance in emergencies, travel disruptions, or other urgent situations abroad.
Omar Obaid Alhesan Alshamsi, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the initiative demonstrates the UAE’s standing “as one of the world’s most competitive nations for global talent” and reflects the country’s commitment to inclusivity and community welfare.
Key Consular Services for Golden Visa Holders
Return document for lost or damaged passports
If a Golden Visa holder loses or damages their passport while abroad, they can now obtain an electronic return document through the Ministry.
This document allows the holder to safely return to the UAE within seven days, ensuring uninterrupted travel and support.
24/7 hotline for urgent assistance
The Ministry has also launched a dedicated hotline for Golden Visa holders overseas. The hotline provides immediate help for emergencies or general inquiries.
Residents can contact the MoFA Call Center 24/7 at +971 2493 1133 for guidance and urgent support.
Emergency and crisis assistance
Golden Visa holders will now be included in the UAE’s emergency and evacuation plans in the event of natural disasters or crises abroad.
Through coordination with UAE missions worldwide, the Ministry will provide urgent aid and evacuation assistance, ensuring residents are safe.
Repatriation and burial services
If a Golden Visa holder passes away overseas, MoFA will facilitate the repatriation and burial process with the relevant authorities.
The service is to ensure a dignified return, providing families with support during a difficult time.
Strengthening the Evolution of the UAE’s Golden Visa Program
The new consular services mark a significant step in the evolving UAE Golden Visa program. As the visa program has grown in popularity, the UAE government has remained quick on the pulse of the growing needs of Golden Visa holders.
The UAE Golden Visa program has undergone many changes recently, now offering services to content creators, educators, and superyacht owners, to name a few.
As our 2025 Global Residency and Citizenship by Investment Index reveals, the UAE ranks 7th, with a total score of 88.84. The UAE remains a leader in migration, with MoFA constantly looking for ways to expand the UAE Golden Visa and create a welcoming environment that encourages migration and community development.
