Dubai Introduces Three Work Visa Options for Foreigners

The Dubai government has published details regarding three work visa options available for foreign nationals in 2026. The first option is the sponsored work visa, which requires employment by a Dubai-based company, with no universal minimum salary set, allowing pay terms to be negotiated between the employer and employee.

The second option is the Green Visa, aimed at skilled workers, which mandates that applicants hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent and work in occupations classified at levels 1, 2, or 3 on the skills scale. To qualify, applicants must earn at least AED 15,000 per month, approximately ₦1,660,000.

The third option is the Remote Work Programme visa, designed for individuals employed by companies outside the UAE who work remotely. This visa requires a minimum monthly income of US$3,500, roughly ₦5,600,000, and does not necessitate a UAE-based employer.

The distinctions among the visa categories primarily revolve around the nature of the applicant's employment.