The UAE has updated its remote working visa in 2026. Find out in our guide who can apply for a Remote Working Visa, what the income and document requirements are, and how to move with your family

With a guide for digital nomads, you will know all the steps in advance and avoid costly mistakes when relocating

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The United Arab Emirates has officially opened an updated Remote Working Visa for foreigners who want to live in the country and work remotely for an employer outside the UAE. The changes came into effect on January 27, 2026 and concern both the requirements for applicants and the package of documents.

The program is aimed at professionals, digital nomads and remote workers who do not plan to change employers, but seek to live in one of the most modern regions of the Middle East.

Read the conditions, requirements of the Remote Working Visa in the UAE and how to work remotely from the Emirates in this article.

Each country has its own rules for digital nomads: some have special visas for remote work, while others have requirements depending on the applicant’s citizenship. It can be difficult and time-consuming to figure out these nuances on your own.

Visit World’s Digital Nomad Guide will help you quickly find out the current entry rules, income requirements and list of documents for remote work in any country in the world. All the necessary information is sent to your email in PDF format within a few minutes of ordering.

Choose a country and get your Digital Nomad Guide today!

What is a Remote Working Visa in the UAE?

A remote working visa allows foreign citizens to legally reside in the UAE for up to one year, working remotely for a foreign company. A local employment contract or sponsor in the Emirates is not required.

The scheme was first announced back in 2021, but in 2026 the government updated the conditions, adapting them to the modern remote work market and financial transparency requirements.

Main advantages of a visa for remote work

Remote Working Visa opens up a number of opportunities for foreigners:

- The visa is issued for 12 months with the possibility of extension;

- No local sponsor or work contract in the UAE is required;

- It is allowed to sponsor family members - spouses, children and parents;

- Access to banking services, housing rental and everyday infrastructure;

- The opportunity to live in a country with a developed digital infrastructure and a convenient geographical location.

Updated requirements for applicants in 2026

From January 27, 2026, updated criteria for obtaining a Remote Working Visa are in effect:

1. Confirmation of remote employment with a foreign employer;

2. Confirmation of employment for at least six months (previously three);

3. Bank statements for the last 6 months, confirming regular income;

4. Minimum monthly income – about 3,500 USD;

5. Valid medical insurance covering the stay in the UAE;

6. Letter from the employer confirming that the company does not object to remote work from the territory of the Emirates.

How to apply for a Remote Working Visa?

You can apply for a Remote Working Visa both from abroad and within the UAE. The procedure is available online or through accredited centers (in particular in Abu Dhabi).

State fee – about 81 USD (excluding medical examination and Emirates ID);

Application processing time – from 5 to 7 working days.

Can I move with my family?

Yes. Remote Working Visa holders have the right to sponsor a residence permit for dependents, including:

- husband or wife;

- children;

- parents.

This makes the program attractive not only for singles, but also for families planning a temporary or long-term move.

Why is the UAE developing programs for remote workers?

The introduction of a visa for remote work is part of a broader strategy to support the economy and attract highly qualified specialists. Back in 2020, Dubai launched its own Virtual Working Programme, which continues to operate in parallel with the federal scheme.

Similar programs have already been implemented by other countries, including Estonia, Cyprus, Georgia, Barbados and Bermuda, which confirms the global trend of remote employment.

What should applicants pay attention to?

Despite the attractive conditions, experts warn: in some countries remote work still does not have clear legal regulation. Failure to comply with tax or migration rules can lead to fines or other sanctions for both the employee and the employer.

Therefore, before submitting an application, it is recommended to consult with immigration specialists to assess possible risks and prepare documents correctly.

Remote Working Visa makes the UAE an attractive destination for digital nomads and remote professionals who want to live and work legally without changing employers. The updated requirements of 2026 increase the transparency of the program and simplify access to the country's infrastructure. To avoid mistakes and prepare for the move, it is worth familiarizing yourself with the current rules and requirements in advance.

Planning to live and work remotely from the United Arab Emirates? Visa requirements, proof of income, bank statements and health insurance – all of this is important to consider before submitting an application to avoid rejection.

In the guide you will find step-by-step instructions for applying for a visa to the UAE, a complete list of documents, processing times and key benefits of living in the country for digital nomads.

Prepare for moving to the UAE correctly – order a guide and start planning now.

Reminder! It is important for foreigners who sponsor a visa to the UAE for their relatives to know when and how the deposit can be returned. We have already talked about the conditions, deadlines, required documents and the refund procedure.

Photo – generated by Gemini