UAE introduces Golden Visa for Waqf donors: 10-year residency for humanitarian contributors


Daijiworld Media Network – Dubai

Dubai, Oct 21: In a landmark move blending humanitarianism with long-term residency, the United Arab Emirates has announced a new Golden Visa category for individuals contributing to Islamic endowments, or Waqf. The initiative grants a 10-year renewable residency visa to qualifying donors under the category of Financial Supporters of Humanitarian Work.

The announcement followed a strategic partnership between the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA-Dubai) and the Endowments and Minors Affairs Foundation (Awqaf Dubai), unveiled during GITEX GLOBAL 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

This new visa pathway allows both UAE residents and international donors to secure a long-term visa by supporting endowment or humanitarian projects with a minimum donation of AED 2 million. The move is part of the UAE’s broader effort to attract global philanthropists, promote sustainable giving, and integrate social responsibility into national development.

“This agreement represents a pioneering model of government integration that empowers endowers to play a vital role in community development,” said Lt. Gen. Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA-Dubai.

Waqf, rooted in Islamic tradition, refers to a perpetual charitable endowment—such as land, property, or funds—dedicated to public welfare initiatives like education, healthcare, or religious services. Once given, Waqf assets cannot be sold or inherited and are managed sustainably to generate long-term community benefits. In the UAE, these endowments are regulated by Awqaf Dubai, which ensures transparency, Sharia compliance, and proper allocation to meaningful causes.

To be eligible for the Waqf Golden Visa, applicants must donate at least AED 2 million to a certified Waqf or humanitarian project, hold a university degree, be nominated by Awqaf Dubai or another authorised humanitarian institution, and provide the necessary documents including proof of contribution, academic credentials, and identification papers.

Applicants can make a qualifying donation to an approved Awqaf Dubai project, obtain a nomination under the humanitarian supporters category, and then submit their application via the GDRFA Smart Services portal or at any Amer Centre in Dubai. Required documents such as the donation certificate, academic qualifications, ID proof, and photographs must be attached. After a committee review by GDRFA and Awqaf Dubai, successful applicants will receive a 10-year Golden Visa, which remains valid even if they reside outside the UAE for more than six months.

Visa holders will enjoy several benefits, including 10-year renewable residency without the need for a local sponsor, the freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in the UAE, the ability to sponsor family members including spouse, children, and parents, extended stay privileges outside the UAE without visa cancellation, and official recognition as valued humanitarian contributors.

Ali Mohammed Al Mutawa, secretary-general of Awqaf Dubai, said the initiative “is a natural extension of Dubai’s vision to position endowment work as a key pillar in sustainable development.”

This Waqf-linked Golden Visa expands the UAE’s strategic residency programme, which already includes investors, scientists, doctors, and entrepreneurs. The government views this addition as a means to attract global goodwill, encourage charitable capital, and foster international collaboration in social development. Officials believe it will further strengthen Dubai’s reputation as a global hub of tolerance, innovation, and generosity.

Interested applicants can visit Awqaf Dubai for donation and nomination details, access GDRFA Smart Services to initiate their visa application, or head to the nearest Amer Centre in Dubai for in-person support. With this visionary policy, the UAE is not only rewarding humanitarian efforts but embedding them into the nation’s long-term development fabric.

 

 

 

  

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Title: UAE introduces Golden Visa for Waqf donors: 10-year residency for humanitarian contributors



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