Awqaf Dubai will nominate eligible donors, GDRFA-Dubai will issue Golden Visas based on the nominations
People cross a bridge in the emirate of Dubai. Photo: File
The UAE has introduced a new category of its coveted 10-year Golden Visa for individuals who donate at least AED2 million to Islamic Waqf funds – a measure that combines philanthropy and long-term residency.
According to Gulf News reportThe initiative follows the signing of a cooperation agreement between the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA-Dubai) and the Endowments and Minors Affairs Foundation (Awqaf Dubai).
The agreement allows resident and non-resident donors to qualify for the Golden Visa under the category of “financial support for humanitarian work”. Signed during GITEX GLOBAL 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, the agreement marks a major step in integrating Dubai’s residency framework with its humanitarian vision.
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The signing ceremony took place in the presence of senior officials from both entities, including Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA-Dubai, and Ali Mohammed Al Mutawa, Secretary General of Awqaf Dubai.
Lieutenant General Al Marri hailed the partnership as a model of inter-agency collaboration that strengthens Dubai’s social development goals.
“This agreement represents a pioneering model of government integration that allows donors to play a vital role in community development,” Al Marri said. “Through this initiative, we seek to promote the values of giving and sustainability within a seamless digital ecosystem that truly embodies our GITEX theme: “Digital Services…for an Easier Life.”
Echoing his remarks, Al Mutawa stressed that the initiative promotes a sustainable culture of charitable giving.
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“This partnership aligns with Dubai’s vision of making staffing work a key driver of sustainable development,” he said. “By allowing donors to obtain the Golden Visa, we recognize their essential role in promoting social solidarity and a culture of shared responsibility. »
Under the agreement, Awqaf Dubai will nominate eligible donors in accordance with Cabinet Resolution No. (65) of 2022, while GDRFA-Dubai will issue Golden Visas based on these nominations.
A joint committee was formed to monitor the implementation and evaluate the social and humanitarian outcomes of the program, ensuring that it achieves its objectives of inclusive growth and shared prosperity.
