Investors and specialists such as doctors and engineers will receive UAE residency visas valid for up to 10 years, it was announced on Sunday. The families of these categories of expatriates will also receive the same visa validity. Top performing students are also eligible for the 10-year residency visa scheme.

It’s also important to note that students will be able to get a Five-Year Residency Visa. This will be sponsored by their university, and if you’re an exceptional student, you can even get a 10 Year student visa!

The cabinet is also considering a possible extension of residency visas for dependent students after they complete their university studies. This will give them enough time to consider their future Post-Graduate options in the UAE.

This information is not out as yet. Watch this space for further details on how UAE residents can apply for the 10 year Visa.

The current system offers renewable Work Residency Visas ranging from 1-3 Years. Aside from this, the UAE government also offers Property Residency Visas applicable on bought property across the Emirates. The period for this Visa ranges from 6 months up to 2 Years. Students and family dependents are supposed to renew their Visa on a year to year basis, extended by their current sponsor.

“The UAE will remain an incubator for innovators and a hub for investors,” Sheikh Mohammed tweeted. “Our open environment, tolerant values, infrastructure and flexible legislations constitute the best plan to attract global investments and exceptional talents. The UAE will remain a land of opportunities. It is the best environment to realise the dreams of humans and unleash their exceptional potentialities.”