His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, today announced that the UAE would offer Golden Visas to charity and humanitarian aid workers to recognise their efforts and sacrifices.

The announcement made by Sheikh Mohammed to provide long-term residence visas to humanitarian workers was made on World Humanitarian Day. To honour the work done by humanitarian workers and remember those who lost their lives working for humanitarian causes.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed said, "On World Humanitarian Day, we pay tribute to the selfless heroes in the UAE, as one of the world's largest humanitarian hubs, to support charity and aid professionals who have dedicated their lives to improving the welfare of underprivileged."

He added, "Aid workers are ambassadors of the UAE and role models instilling pride in us all. Giving is embedded in the fabric of Emirati society and culture, and we aspire to be the most vibrant humanitarian destination in the next fifty years."

The UAE has consolidated its position as a world leader in immediate crisis and disaster response in recent years. The UAE's humanitarian aid level throughout the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic amounted to 2,154 metric tonnes of medical aid, respiratory and examination devices, and personal protection equipment.

The Golden Visa system allows its beneficiaries in the UAE – including expatriates and their families who wish to come to work, live and study in the country – to enjoy long-term residency.

Implementation of the Golden Visa system came in 2018. It included the granting of a long-term residence visa for 5 or 10 years, which is automatically renewed for people who fall into any of specific categories, including investors, doctors, entrepreneurs, scientists, creators, inventors, researchers in various branches of science, technology and innovation, and outstanding students.

The move to grant the Golden Visa to charity and humanitarian workers residing in the UAE provides them a safe place to continue their work. It will also enhance their ability to communicate with local, regional and global charity and humanitarian organisations from the most digitally advanced and connected places on the planet.

The institutionalisation of humanitarian work is a significant addition to the UAE's charitable and humanitarian work record.

WAM