A UAE partner visa is one of the most practical routes for entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners who want to live and work in the UAE. Simply, it grants residency to company shareholders — making it a vital step for anyone looking to establish or expand a business in Dubai, across the UAE, and throughout the GCC.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how the partner visa works in 2025, who can apply, what it costs, and why working with experts like Creative Zone can make the process seamless.
What is a UAE partner visa?
A partner visa in the UAE is a residency visa issued to individuals who own shares in a business registered in the country. It links your residency status directly to your role as a shareholder, allowing you to legally live in the UAE while managing your business.
This visa is designed for foreign investors and entrepreneurs who want to participate in the UAE’s thriving economy. Unlike employment visas, which tie you to an employer, a partner visa provides the freedom to operate as a business owner.
To qualify for the UAE partner visa, some jurisdictions may require a minimum investment of AED 1 million (often equating to at least 25% shareholding), though requirements differ between mainland and free zones.
For those planning to grow their business in Dubai – and beyond – the partner visa is valid for 2–3 years. And it opens the door as a potential pathway to the 5-year UAE green visa or 10-year UAE golden visa.
It’s worth noting that the UAE partner visa differs from the UAE investor visa. This visa is designed for individuals with passive investments of AED 2 million (such as real estate), and have no business operational responsibilities. In practice, ‘partner visa’ often applies to company shareholders, while ‘investor visa’ is usually used for larger capital-based investments like real estate.
Who can apply for a partner visa in the UAE
You can apply for a partner visa if you hold shares in a registered UAE company and are actively involved in its operations. The main requirements include:
- Business ownership: You must be listed as a shareholder in the company’s trade license.
- Mainland companies: Typically, you need at least 25% shareholding, though some structures may vary. Some jurisdictions also set a minimum shareholding value of AED 1 million, but this can differ depending on whether you set up your business on the mainland or as a free zone company.
- Free zone companies: Ownership requirements differ by free zones, but most allow full foreign ownership.
- Nationality: Citizens of most countries are eligible, subject to standard immigration checks.
- Health check: Must pass a mandatory medical fitness test.
This visa is ideal for entrepreneurs launching new ventures, investors acquiring shares, or existing business owners expanding their footprint in the region.
Documents and requirements for a UAE partner visa
To apply for a partner visa, you’ll need to provide:
- Copy of the company’s trade license.
- Shareholder/partner agreement or memorandum of association (MOA)
- Passport copy and a passport-size photo
- Company bank statements to prove financial stability
- Medical fitness test results
- Emirates ID application form and biometrics
- Proof of entry permit (if applying from outside the UAE)
Having these documents in order is crucial to avoid delays in processing.
How to apply for a partner visa in the UAE: step-by-step
Applying for a partner visa in the UAE means following a complex process involving several steps. These include registering a business or joining a company as a shareholder/partner, securing an immigration establishment card, applying for an entry permit, undergoing a medical check, registering for your Emirates ID, applying for your visa, and completing visa stamping.
Step 1: Register a business or join a company
To qualify for a UAE partner visa, you must be listed on the company’s trade license. This can be completed by registering a business or joining a company.
To establish a business, you’ll need to register a mainland or free zone company. Business setup in the UAE involves navigating government procedures and securing a trade license. You’ll need to outline your business activities, select a legal structure and jurisdiction (mainland or free zone), reserve your company name, apply for initial approvals, rent office space, apply for your trade license, apply for your visa, and open a corporate bank account.
If joining a company, you’ll need to show proof of investment/shareholding in the memorandum of association (MOA) or a partner agreement.
For both cases, you’ll need to be listed on the company license as a shareholder. This is crucial for the remainder of this process.
Creative Zone has helped over 75,000 businesses set up in the UAE and internationally; our highly experienced team will not only guide you through this step, but also the entire process of business setup and securing your UAE partner visa.
Step 2: Get an immigration establishment card
You’ll need to apply to the General Directorate for Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) for an immigration establishment card. This registers your company with the UAE’s immigration services so that your business can apply for visas, entry permits, and sponsor partners.
Step 3: Apply for your entry permit
Now, you can apply for an entry permit. This enables you to enter the UAE (if you’re abroad) and start your visa residency process.
You’ll need to send the following paperwork to the GDRFA:
- Passport copy and passport-sized photos
- Business license copy
- Establishment card
- Immigration card
Step 4: Complete your medical fitness check
All UAE residency visa applicants must pass a medical fitness test.
Step 5: Register for your Emirates ID
You can now register for your Emirates ID at an ICA center (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security), where they’ll capture your biometric data.
Step 6: Apply for your visa
Next, you can complete your UAE partner visa application form on the GDRFA’s online portal. You’ll also need to send in the following paperwork:
- Entry permit
- Passport copy
- Medical test result
- Partnership agreement or MOA document
- Business license copy
Step 7: Visa stamping
This is the final step, and it requires submitting your passport for your residency visa stamping. This is handled by the GDRFA, and they’ll complete the visa stamping, finalizing your UAE partner visa.
Cost of a partner visa in Dubai
The cost of a UAE partner visa varies depending on whether your company’s on the mainland or in a free zone, but you can expect the figure to be between AED 7,000 and AED 10,000. Here’s a breakdown:
- Government fees: AED 3,000–5,000.
- Medical fitness test: AED 300–500.
- Emirates ID: AED 370–500 (depending on validity period).
- Typing and processing charges: AED 500–1,000.
Budgeting AED 7,000–10,000 is a safe estimate for most applicants. Some free zones include visa packages as part of business setup, while mainland companies often require separate payments.
Partner visa renewal process
A UAE partner visa is usually valid for 2–3 years. To renew, you’ll need:
- A valid trade license
- Updated shareholding documents
- Completed medical test
- Renewed Emirates ID
Renewals must be processed before your visa expires. Failing to renew on time can result in penalties and even suspension of residency status. Working with a business setup partner such as Creative Zone ensures you meet deadlines without hassle.
Mainland vs free zone partner visa: key differences
When applying for a partner visa, one of the first decisions is whether to set up in the mainland or a free zone. Here’s how they compare:
- Ownership: Mainland companies may require minimum shareholding percentages (depending on the business activities), while free zones usually allow 100% foreign ownership.
- Cost: Free zone packages can include visa costs, while mainland visas often involve separate fees.
- Documentation: Mainland visas may require additional attestations compared to free zones.
- Business scope: Mainland visas allow unrestricted trade within the UAE, while free zone companies are limited without a distributor or local agent.
Your choice depends on your business model, expansion plans, and budget.
Benefits of holding a UAE partner visa
A UAE partner visa opens the door to several advantages, including:
1. Business ownership rights
Enjoy legal recognition as a shareholder in your company, giving you more control and flexibility.
2. Long-term residency
Stay in the UAE for 2–3 years at a time, with renewals ensuring continued residence.
3. Family sponsorship
Sponsor your spouse, children, and in some cases, parents — making relocation easier for your whole family.
4. Access to UAE banking and services
Open business and personal bank accounts, lease property, and access utilities under your residency status.
5. Business growth opportunities
Network, expand, and thrive within one of the world’s most dynamic business hubs.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the partner visa valid in the UAE?
Usually 2–3 years, depending on the jurisdiction.
What’s the difference between a partner visa and investor visa?
The investor visa is valid for 5 years, requires a minimum investment of AED 2 million (usually related to larger capital-based investments), while the partner visa applies to company shareholders and is valid for 2–3 years.
Can I sponsor family with a partner visa?
Yes, provided you meet the income and accommodation requirements.
What happens if I sell my shares or close the business?
Your partner visa will be cancelled, as it’s tied to your shareholding.
How long does the visa process take?
Typically 1–3 weeks, depending on documentation and the authority handling your application.
Why work with Creative Zone
Applying for a UAE partner visa can be complex, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process. That’s where Creative Zone comes in.
- We guide you through every step — from securing your trade license to handling documentation and renewals.
- Our team ensures your application is error-free and compliant, saving you time and money.
- We also provide ongoing support for business setup, family sponsorship, and renewals.
With over 15 years of experience helping entrepreneurs establish themselves in the UAE, Creative Zone is the trusted choice for your partner visa journey.
Contact Creative Zone today and let us simplify your UAE partner visa application.
