Dubai Issues 66,000 Golden Visas in H1 2026
In Dubai, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA Dubai) has reported a significant surge in visa and residency transactions during the first half of 2026. The emirate granted 66,000 Golden Visas, issued more than 1.052 million new residency permits, and completed over 5 million entry permit transactions. This growth highlights Dubai’s increasing attractiveness as a destination for living, working, and investment.
The impact on the community is substantial, with the large number of new residency permits and Golden Visas issued set to boost the local economy and population. Residents can expect to see an increase in new businesses, services, and job opportunities, as well as a more diverse community. The high volume of entry permit transactions also indicates a significant number of visitors, which will likely have a positive effect on the tourism industry.
The GDRFA Dubai‘s efforts to enhance its services have led to a 100% digital transformation, with an average transaction processing time of less than four minutes. Customer happiness has reached 95%, reflecting the authority’s focus on efficient and innovative government services. This digital transformation is expected to make it easier for residents and visitors to access and utilize the services provided by the GDRFA Dubai, streamlining processes such as visa applications and residency permits.
The surge in Golden Visas and new residency permits is part of Dubai’s strategy to attract more talent, investors, and families to the emirate. The government’s initiatives, such as the 5-year multiple-entry tourist visa and the DubaiNow Domestic Worker Bundle, aim to support tourism, business travel, family visits, and long-term residency. As Dubai continues to grow and develop, it is likely that we will see even more innovative services and initiatives aimed at supporting the community and enhancing the overall quality of life in the emirate.
