New Golden Visa Rules Unveiled
- September 23, 2025
In a move aimed at further attracting and retaining top talent and investment, the UAE government today, September 23, 2025, announced significant amendments to its Golden Visa program. The new regulations, effective immediately, broaden the eligibility criteria for professionals, entrepreneurs, and specialized talents across various sectors. Expats in fields such as advanced technology, renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and certain medical specializations will find it easier to secure the coveted 10-year residency.The expanded framework also introduces new pathways for exceptional students and individuals with outstanding contributions to humanitarian causes. For investors, the minimum investment thresholds remain competitive, with new provisions designed to streamline the application process for those contributing to the UAE's strategic economic diversification goals. This initiative is expected to bolster the country's position as a global hub for innovation and business, offering stability and long-term prospects to expatriates who are integral to its growth. Government officials emphasized that the changes reflect the UAE's commitment to building a diverse and dynamic community, providing an attractive environment for families and professionals seeking a long-term future in the Emirates. Educational and healthcare benefits for Golden Visa holders are also being reviewed for potential enhancements in the coming months, further solidifying the appeal of permanent residency.---- Headline: Dubai 'Sky Gardens' Opens- Short Description: Landmark vertical farm and leisure complex "Sky Gardens" officially opens in Dubai, blending nature and tech.- Long Description: Dubai celebrated a groundbreaking addition to its urban landscape today, September 23, 2025, with the grand opening of "Sky Gardens," a multi-story vertical farm integrated with residential, retail, and leisure spaces. Located in the heart of Downtown Dubai, this innovative project combines cutting-edge agricultural technology with sustainable urban living, offering a unique eco-friendly experience.The complex boasts a massive indoor vertical farm producing fresh, organic produce year-round, significantly reducing the city's reliance on imported food and promoting food security. Residents and visitors can enjoy direct access to hydroponic gardens, farm-to-table restaurants, and interactive educational exhibits on sustainable agriculture. "Sky Gardens" also features luxurious apartments, boutique retail outlets, and state-of-the-art wellness facilities, all designed with a strong emphasis on natural light, green spaces, and sustainable materials. This ambitious project aligns with Dubai's vision for a greener, smarter city and is expected to become a major attraction, drawing both tourists and residents keen on experiencing a future-forward lifestyle. The development is projected to create hundreds of new jobs in green technology, hospitality, and retail sectors, further contributing to Dubai's diverse economy.---- Headline: UAE Boosts EV Infrastructure- Short Description: Major investment in electric vehicle charging network announced across all seven Emirates.- Long Description: The UAE government today, September 23, 2025, unveiled an ambitious national plan to significantly expand its electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, aiming to accelerate the transition to sustainable transportation. The multi-billion dirham initiative will see thousands of new charging stations installed across all seven Emirates over the next two years, including ultra-fast chargers on major highways and residential areas. This move comes as part of the UAE's broader commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and encouraging widespread EV adoption among its residents.The plan includes partnerships with leading private sector companies and incentives for businesses to install charging points at their premises. Additionally, a new mobile application will be launched to provide real-time information on charging station availability, pricing, and navigation. Expats considering the switch to electric vehicles will benefit from increased convenience and reduced range anxiety, making EVs a more viable and attractive option for daily commutes and inter-emirate travel. Industry experts commend the proactive approach, predicting a surge in EV sales and a positive impact on air quality and environmental sustainability across the nation. Educational campaigns will also accompany the rollout to inform the public about EV benefits and charging etiquette.---- Headline: Dubai Arts Festival Kicks Off- Short Description: The annual Dubai International Arts Festival begins, showcasing global and local artistic talent.- Long Description: The highly anticipated Dubai International Arts Festival officially opened its doors today, September 23, 2025, inviting residents and tourists alike to immerse themselves in a vibrant celebration of culture and creativity. Spanning across various iconic venues in Dubai, including the Dubai Opera, Alserkal Avenue, and the newly unveiled Culture Square, the festival promises two weeks of diverse artistic expressions.This year's edition features an impressive lineup of international and local artists, with exhibitions ranging from contemporary painting and sculpture to digital art installations and live performances. Highlights include a special focus on emerging artists from the Middle East, a series of interactive workshops for all ages, and thought-provoking panel discussions with renowned art critics and curators. For expats, the festival offers a fantastic opportunity to engage with Dubai's burgeoning art scene, discover new talents, and connect with fellow art enthusiasts from around the globe. Food trucks and pop-up cafes serving international cuisines will also be available at key festival locations, creating a lively community atmosphere. The Dubai Arts Festival has become a cornerstone of the city's cultural calendar, reinforcing its position as a global hub for arts and creativity.---- Headline: Rental Market Stabilizes- Short Description: UAE rental market shows signs of stabilization across key cities, offering relief to many expat residents.- Long Description: The UAE's rental market is signaling a period of stabilization, according to new reports released today, September 23, 2025, offering a welcome respite for many expatriate residents who have faced fluctuating prices over the past year. After a period of significant increases in certain high-demand areas, analysts indicate that rental growth is moderating, with some segments even showing minor adjustments downwards. This stabilization is attributed to a balanced increase in new housing supply and a more settled demand landscape.Key cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are seeing a more predictable rental environment, which is good news for expats planning their budgets and long-term residency. While premium locations continue to command higher prices, there is increased affordability in mid-range segments. Property experts suggest that tenants now have more leverage in negotiations, particularly for longer lease terms. The market's current trajectory provides a more transparent outlook for those looking to renew leases or find new accommodations. Developers are also focusing on delivering communities that cater to a broader range of income brackets, ensuring a diverse and sustainable housing ecosystem. This trend is expected to continue into early next year, fostering a more stable and tenant-friendly rental market across the Emirates.