In a major directive issued by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, more than 200 outstanding educators across early childhood centres, schools, and universities have been granted long-term UAE Golden Visas. The move, timed to coincide with World Teachers’ Day, highlights the Crown Prince’s personal commitment to recognising and empowering the teaching community, and reinforces Dubai’s strategic focus on educational excellence and talent retention.
A high-level gesture marking world Teachers’ Day
On the occasion of World Teachers’ Day 2025, observed annually on October 5, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai—directed the issuance of Golden Visas to exceptional teachers across the city. The initiative was originally announced by Sheikh Hamdan during last year’s Teachers’ Day and has now moved into implementation. More than 200 educators have been awarded the visa in the first round, underscoring Dubai’s recognition of teachers as core architects of its social and intellectual future.“Teachers and educators are the ones who light the way forward. They inspire, guide, and give our children the skills and confidence to succeed. On World Teachers’ Day, we recognise their dedication and affirm that supporting them is the best investment we can make in the future of Dubai. Their impact goes beyond classrooms, building the character of our society and strengthening Dubai’s global stature,” said Sheikh Hamdan. He added, “By awarding the Golden Visa to exceptional teachers, we are showing how much Dubai values knowledge, integrity, and service. Our schools will always be places where the future is nurtured and where the next generation can thrive.”
Golden Visa selection based on merit and impact
The first round of applications saw 435 candidates apply for the Golden Visa. Of these, 223 were selected, representing 51% of total applicants. The selection process was rigorously structured, relying on a merit-based assessment rather than demographic filters. Nationality, gender, or years of experience were deliberately excluded from consideration to maintain fairness.Instead, evaluation focused on:
- Professional qualifications
- Impactful achievements
- Contributions to education and broader society
- Positive feedback from students, parents, and communities
Special weight was given to individuals who had received national or international awards, published research in recognised journals, or demonstrated exceptional institutional or community impact. The awarded group included:
- 157 educators and staff from schools
- 60 from universities
- 6 from early childhood centres
Applicants came from varied professional backgrounds, covering roles such as senior leadership, librarians, and social workers, in addition to teaching staff.
A pillar of the education 33 (E33) strategy
The Golden Visa rollout is a key part of Dubai’s Education 33 (E33) Strategy, which aims to position the city as a global hub for educational talent. This strategy places educators at the centre of its mission to advance learning quality and attract global expertise. Aisha Miran, Director-General of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), commented on the significance of this milestone.“Teachers are at the heart of every successful education system. The Golden Visa initiative is part of our ongoing efforts to celebrate and elevate the teaching profession. These results reflect the incredible talent, passion, and commitment of Dubai’s educators – individuals who are making a real difference in students’ lives and contributing to the future of our city.” She further added, “As part of the E33 strategy, we are committed to empowering educators and positioning Dubai as a global hub for education excellence. We also want to make teaching a more attractive and rewarding career path for future generations.” This move is in line with the broader goals of Dubai’s education roadmap for the next decade: to bring in passionate, world-class teachers who promote lifelong learning and contribute to the emirate’s evolving knowledge economy.
Next round of applications now open
Following the success of the first round, Dubai has opened applications for the second round of Golden Visas. Eligible candidates include educators currently employed in private early childhood centres, schools, and international higher education institutions across the emirate. The application window runs from 15th October to 15th December 2025, giving educators a two-month period to apply for this prestigious recognition.
What is the UAE Golden Visa ?
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency program launched in 2019, designed to attract and retain exceptional talent in vital sectors including investment, science, medicine, entrepreneurship, and now, education. Qualified individuals are granted a renewable 5- or 10-year residency, allowing them to live, work, study, and travel freely within the UAE, without the need for a local sponsor. In October 2024, the program expanded to include teachers, principals, early childhood center (ECC) managers, and academic faculty in Dubai. This inclusion reflects the UAE’s growing acknowledgment of the vital role educators play in shaping future generations and aligns with the Dubai Education Strategy 2030 (E33).
Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa for Educators
The UAE Golden Visa offers a suite of personal, professional, and financial advantages that few other residency schemes in the world can match:A renewable long-term visa valid for up to a decade, providing unmatched career and life stability.
- No Employer Sponsorship Required
Applicants can apply independently, without needing to be tied to a specific job or employer.
Legal Work Authorization in UAE
Visa holders can freely work, teach, or engage in business within Dubai and across the UAE.The UAE offers zero income tax, no capital gains tax, and no inheritance tax, maximizing your earnings.
- Residency for Spouse and Children
Visa holders can sponsor spouses and children of any age for residency.
- Sponsorship for Domestic Helpers
Golden Visa holders can sponsor an unlimited number of domestic workers, including drivers, nannies, and household staff.
- Free Esaad Privilege Card
Introduced in 2022, the Esaad card grants exclusive discounts at over 7,000 businesses in the UAE and across 92 countries. Formerly reserved for government employees, it is now available to all Golden Visa holders.
- Access to Premium Healthcare
Visa holders and their families have access to world-class medical services, with discounts at selected providers via the Esaad card.
- Multiple Entry Flexibility
The Golden Visa is a multiple-entry visa, allowing easy travel in and out of the UAE without reapplying.After the initial term, visa holders are eligible for renewal, provided criteria continue to be met.
