UAE Announces Golden Visa for Charity Donors. The UAE has officially expanded its prestigious Golden Visa program to include charity and Waqf (Islamic endowment) donors. This landmark initiative recognizes the contributions of individuals who financially support humanitarian and community-building projects. The move aligns with Dubai’s vision of becoming a global capital for compassion, sustainability, and social responsibility.
Golden Visa for Charity Donors
Under a new cooperation agreement signed between the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA-Dubai) and the Endowments and Minors Affairs Foundation (Awqaf Dubai), qualified Waqf donors can now apply for long-term residency under the Golden Visa category of “financial supporters of humanitarian work.”
This strategic partnership allows Awqaf Dubai to nominate eligible endowers—both UAE residents and non-residents—who meet the criteria defined in Cabinet Resolution No. (65) of 2022. Once verified, the GDRFA-Dubai will issue Golden Visa residency permits to these contributors.
Purpose of the Initiative
The initiative aims to:
- Empower philanthropists to play a greater role in community development.
- Encourage sustainable giving and promote the culture of endowments.
- Strengthen Dubai’s status as a global hub of humanitarianism and tolerance.
By honoring those who support charitable causes, the program inspires others to invest in long-term social impact that benefits future generations.
Oversight and Implementation
A joint committee will be formed to ensure:
- Transparent implementation of the Golden Visa scheme.
- Monitoring of social and developmental outcomes.
- Alignment with Dubai’s vision for a human-centered, sustainable future.
The collaboration between Awqaf Dubai and GDRFA-Dubai marks a model of effective government integration—where both institutions unite to serve a higher humanitarian mission.
Statements from Key Officials
Lt-Gen Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri
The Director General of GDRFA-Dubai emphasized that the partnership reflects the government’s commitment to promoting the values of generosity, community engagement, and sustainable growth.
He stated:
“This collaboration represents an advanced model of governmental integration aimed at empowering endowers to contribute to community development through impactful initiatives that promote the values of giving and sustainability.”
Ali Mohammed Al Mutawa
The Secretary-General of Awqaf Dubai described the initiative as a step forward in recognizing donors’ crucial roles in social progress.
“This decision reflects Dubai’s vision to elevate endowment work as a key driver of sustainable development, highlighting donors’ contributions to solidarity and social responsibility.”
Who Can Apply for the Golden Visa Under This Category
Eligibility is open to individuals who:
- Have made notable contributions to charitable or humanitarian causes in the UAE.
- Are recognized by Awqaf Dubai as endowers meeting the official criteria.
- Hold a valid UAE residency (for residents) or have supported UAE-based initiatives (for non-residents).
Once nominated by Awqaf Dubai, the application is processed by GDRFA-Dubai, ensuring a streamlined and transparent procedure.
Impact on Dubai’s Vision
This new Golden Visa category complements Dubai’s broader strategy to:
- Attract social investors and philanthropists from around the world.
- Strengthen partnerships between government and community institutions.
- Support the UAE Centennial 2071 vision—a long-term roadmap that places humanity and sustainability at its core.
By including Waqf and charity donors, Dubai is setting a precedent for inclusive, value-driven growth that extends beyond business and innovation.
Why This Matters
The Golden Visa for charity donors not only acknowledges financial generosity, but also celebrates moral leadership. It fosters a culture where success is measured not just by wealth, but by how it is shared.
This program will likely encourage more individuals and organizations to commit to long-term charitable endowments, empowering Dubai’s social ecosystem and reinforcing its humanitarian leadership across the region.
Conclusion
The UAE’s decision to extend the Golden Visa to Waqf and charity donors marks a transformative moment in the country’s humanitarian journey. Through cooperation between GDRFA-Dubai and Awqaf Dubai, the nation is building a framework where philanthropy and sustainability go hand-in-hand.
This initiative not only rewards generosity but also reinforces the UAE’s global image as a beacon of compassion, tolerance, and sustainable development—where those who give back are given lasting recognition.
FAQs
1. Who is eligible for the Golden Visa as a charity donor in the UAE?
Individuals recognized by Awqaf Dubai as Waqf or charity donors meeting the humanitarian contribution criteria are eligible.
2. Can non-residents apply for this Golden Visa category?
Yes, both UAE residents and non-residents who meet the endowment and donation standards can be nominated by Awqaf Dubai.
3. What is Cabinet Resolution No. (65) of 2022?
It is the legal framework outlining eligibility criteria for Golden Visas issued to financial supporters of humanitarian initiatives.
4. How long is the Golden Visa valid?
Golden Visas are typically valid for 10 years, providing long-term residency to the holder and their family members.
