Thinking about living your best life in Dubai but wondering how to make it happen without a job? (Don’t worry, you’re not alone). Here’s some good news for you – you totally can! All you need is a self-sponsored visa and you just bought yourself a one-way ticket to living that dream Dubai life! But what is a self-sponsored visa you ask and how to apply for one? Don’t worry I have the answers to all your questions, and then some. Come with me, and I’ll break down 4 types of visas you need to stay in Dubai without a job in the city!
Also read: Moving To Dubai Soon? Here Are 12 Types Of Visas The UAE Offers
1. Estate Investor Visa – Two Years

If you own property in Dubai worth at least AED 750,000, you can apply for the Property Investor Visa through the Dubai Land Department. This visa allows you to stay in the UAE without employment. Here is what you need to know:
Requirements:
- If the property is mortgaged, you’ll need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) and a mortgage statement from your bank.
- For completed properties (not under construction), you must have paid at least 50% of the total property value.
Documents You’ll Need:
- Property’s title deed
- Copy of the initial sale certificate
- NOC from the bank (if mortgaged)
- Marriage certificate (if jointly owned with your spouse)
- Copy of your current UAE visa and Emirates ID
- Passport photo
2. UAE Golden Visa – 10 Years

The UAE Golden Visa is your ticket to long-term residency. Holders can live, work, and study in the UAE without the need for an employer sponsor. You can even work for yourself or any company, locally or internationally.
Who Can Apply?
- Entrepreneurs with a UAE business generating at least AED 1 million annually
- Property owners with assets worth over AED 2 million
- High-performing students in UAE schools or universities, or graduates from the world’s top 100 universities. These students can also sponsor their families.
- Humanitarian pioneers with a record of 500+ volunteer hours.
3. UAE Retirement Visa – 5 Years

Dreaming of a peaceful retirement in Dubai? If you’re 55 or older, you can apply for a five-year renewable retirement visa to enjoy your golden years in style.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Be at least 55 years old with valid UAE medical insurance.
- Own a non-mortgaged property worth at least AED 2 million.
- Have a bank deposit of at least AED 1 million in the UAE.
- Prove a monthly income of at least AED 15,000 for Dubai (or AED 20,000 for other UAE emirates).
Required Documents:
- Passport copy
- Marriage certificate (if sponsoring your spouse)
- Emirates ID and visa copy (if already a UAE resident)
- Proof of financial eligibility
- Valid health insurance policy
This visa covers you, your spouse, and your children, provided you meet the financial requirements.
4. Remote Working Visa – 1 Year

If you work in another country but want to move to Dubai, the ‘Remote working Visa’ is the perfect option for you.
Application Steps:
Apply via the Visit Dubai Visa portal and meet the following requirements:
- A passport valid for at least six months.
- Valid health insurance covering the UAE.
- Proof of a minimum monthly income of USD 3,500.
For Employees:
- A valid employment contract for at least one year.
- A salary of USD 5,000 per month.
- Recent salary slip and bank statements for the past three months.
For Company Owners:
- Proof of company ownership for at least one year.
- Monthly income averaging USD 5,000 with supporting bank statements.
Once your visa is approved, you can also apply for dependents to bring your family along!
And that’s how you stay in the UAE hassle-free and job-free with these 4 types of visas!