Dubai offers the Gaming Visa, a 10-year residency permit designed for professionals in the gaming industry, including developers, esports athletes, and content creators.
The visa provides access to opportunities in Dubai’s growing gaming sector, allowing holders to work in gaming studios, host events, and collaborate with global brands.
This visa is part of Dubai’s broader efforts to attract skilled talent from around the world and support its gaming industry, which continues to expand as the city builds a stronger digital economy.
Purpose of the Dubai gaming visa
The main goals of the visa, according to DAAD Scholarship, include;
- Attracting top talent,
- Boosting the local digital economy, and
- Fostering growth in the gaming sector.
By offering opportunities to work with major gaming companies, host events, and monetize digital content, the visa aims to provide an arena for professionals to thrive in this growing field.
Reports inform that Dubai hopes to bring in developers who can create the next big gaming hits, esports professionals who can compete at international levels, and content creators who can build a fanbase through their streams and tutorials.
Work opportunities under the gaming visa
The Dubai Gaming Visa opens up a range of professional opportunities.
- Visa holders can work with top gaming studios setting up operations in Dubai, collaborate with international brands, and host gaming events.
- The visa also allows individuals to freelance, offering tax-free income, and create gaming-related content for digital platforms.
With Dubai becoming home to a growing number of gaming professionals, the visa helps people access a network of industry experts, attend global events, and work in a city dedicated to the future of gaming.
Eligibility requirements
To be eligible for the Dubai Gaming Visa, applicants must meet certain criteria.
- Applicants need to be game developers, esports professionals, or digital creators with a proven track record in the gaming industry.
- Applicants must also provide evidence of stable income from gaming-related work and submit a portfolio showcasing their skills and achievements.
Furthermore, applicants must submit a statement of intent outlining how they plan to contribute to Dubai’s gaming ecosystem.
Health insurance is also required to ensure that visa holders are covered for their stay in the UAE.
How to apply for the Dubai gaming visa
The application process for the Dubai Gaming Visa involves several steps.
- First, applicants must gather the necessary documents, which include a valid passport, portfolio of work, proof of income, health insurance, and a statement of intent.
- Applications are submitted online via the official Dubai Gaming website
- The application fee ranges from AED 1,000 to AED 2,500, depending on the visa category.
After submitting the application, applicants may need to attend an interview. Once the application is processed, which takes between 15 and 30 days, the visa will be issued electronically.
Benefits of the Dubai gaming visa
According to reports, the Dubai Gaming Visa offers several benefits for professionals. It includes tax-free income, allowing visa holders to retain all their earnings. Additionally, holders will have access to exclusive gaming facilities and the opportunity to participate in events such as gaming tournaments, expos, and conferences.
Visa holders are also able to bring their families to Dubai, enjoying the city’s lifestyle while working in the gaming sector.
The visa provides access to a growing network of gaming professionals and offers the chance to be part of Dubai’s rapidly developing gaming industry.
