The United Arab Emirates has taken a significant step in strengthening the support system for its long-term residents. At the 2025 GITEX Global 2025, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), in partnership with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), announced a comprehensive “consular services package” designed exclusively for Golden Visa holders and their dependents.
This is the first time such services — previously reserved for UAE nationals — are being extended to long-term resident visa holders. It underscores the UAE’s ambition to not only attract global talent and investment, but to retain and protect them.
What’s Included in the New Services
Here are the key features of the package:
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Electronic return document: If a Golden Visa holder loses or damages their passport abroad, they can now apply for a return document to re-enter the UAE. This document is reportedly issued within about 30 minutes.
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24/7 dedicated hotline & support: A dedicated number is available to Golden Visa holders traveling abroad, allowing direct access to consular assistance, emergency response, evacuation plans, and crisis coordination.
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Inclusion in emergency/crisis evacuation plans: Golden Visa holders are now included in the UAE’s official emergency and evacuation support framework (in cases of natural disasters, conflict zones, health emergencies abroad).
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Repatriation & burial support: In tragic circumstances where a Golden Visa holder passes away abroad, the services cover repatriation of remains to the UAE, coordination with local and UAE missions, and support for bereaved families.
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Family member coverage: The services extend to registered dependents of the Golden Visa holder (spouse, children) as long as they hold valid residence permits under the Golden Visa scheme.
Why This Matters
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Increased Assurance & Security: For residents holding the Golden Visa, these services provide a sense of trust and protection — especially for those who travel frequently or live abroad part of the year.
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Global Competitiveness: By offering consular support similar to that offered to citizens, the UAE strengthens its positioning as a global destination for investors, professionals, and families.
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Encourages Long-Term Residency: The Golden Visa is designed to attract people who will live, invest and participate in the UAE’s economy. Enhanced support mechanisms make the commitment more attractive.
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Positive Signal for Investors: For real estate investors (many of whom secure Golden Visas through property investment), these services add an extra layer of confidence when buying property and living part-time abroad.
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Strengthening Community Theme: The launch aligns with the UAE’s 2025 national theme of the “Year of Community – Hand in Hand”, reflecting the leadership’s focus on belonging, support, and social cohesion.
Important Things to Know & Consider
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Eligibility: Services apply to valid Golden Visa holders and their registered dependents. Ensure your visa and residence permit are active.
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Scope: The return document is for direct travel back to UAE (usually one-entry, short validity) and may not cover transit via third countries.
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Cost: Most of the new services (like the return document) are noted to be issued quickly and at no extra cost beyond standard procedures.
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Documentation & Process: If you need to access these services, you’ll likely need to use UAE Pass or official app/website of MoFA/ICP, submit required details, and await confirmation.
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For Families: If you’re an investor or property purchaser who holds a Golden Visa, it’s good to register dependents and understand their covered status under these consular services.
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Travel & Residence Strategy: If you travel frequently or maintain investment abroad, knowing you have this support means you can consider more flexible lifestyles without compromising on support.
Conclusion
The introduction of dedicated consular services for Golden Visa holders is a landmark update in the UAE’s residency landscape. It sends a powerful message: the UAE is not just granting long-term residency, it is caring for and protecting those who choose to call the country home — even when they are abroad.
For investors, professionals, and families holding or considering the Golden Visa, this initiative offers added peace of mind and further strengthens the UAE’s appeal as a base for global talent and capital.
If you’d like guidance on how to align your property investment or residency strategy with the Golden Visa — feel free to ask!