Running a business in the UAE is one of the most attractive options for entrepreneurs today. With Dubai and Abu Dhabi turning into global business hubs, the government has introduced flexible visa policies to support investors and business owners. The business partner visa helps you to live and work there legally. It links your residency to your business involvement.
This guide breaks down the step-by-step process of how to apply for it clearly and quickly.
What is a business partner visa?
Foreign nationals who own stock in a business based in the United Arab Emirates can legally live and work there with a partner visa. This visa allows you to actively participate in the management and day-to-day activities of the firm and is connected with your ownership of the business. It also grants you the authority to sponsor your close family members for a UAE resident visa.
It’s often compared with an investor visa, but the difference lies in ownership and structure. While both require a business license in the UAE, the partner visa is specifically designed for individuals who hold shares in a company, not just sole investors.
Benefits of a Partner Visa:
- Provides residency in the UAE by letting you sponsor your family members under your visa.
- Allow for more convenient travel within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, with no limitations.
- Offers long-term residency, which eliminates the inconvenience of having to renew it frequently.
- Provides access to UAE main services such as healthcare and education.
Eligibility and Required Documents
You must meet these key requirements before you can get your partner visa in Dubai:
- Ownership stake or solid partnership agreement (often 25 percent or more)
- Valid trade license and immigration or establishment card
- Minimum capital investment varies by emirate (from AED 50,000 to AED 1 million or more).
- Passport valid 6+ months, photos, and good conduct records
- Medical fitness test and Emirates ID application
- Health insurance in some emirates
Step-by-Step Process to Apply
1. Secure a Business License in the UAE
The first step is getting your company licensed. Whether you are in a free zone or on the mainland, the license defines your eligibility for the visa.
2. Prepare Documents
Collect your MOA, trade license, passport copies, photographs, and proof of shareholding. Small mistakes can cause approvals to be delayed, so accuracy is essential.
3. Apply for Entry Permit
Submit your application online through the Dubai Immigration (GDRFA) or other emirate authorities. An entry permit allows you to enter the UAE if you’re abroad.
4. Medical Examination and Emirates ID
After arrival, complete a medical fitness test and register for an Emirates ID. Both are mandatory before final visa stamping.
5. Visa Stamping
Submit your passport to immigration for final stamping. Once done, you are legally a UAE resident under a partner visa.
Costs to Expect
Visas and associated fees range between AED 3,500 and AED 13,000, depending on the mainland or free zone and services used.
You also pay medical, Emirates ID, and entry permit fees.
How Dub-Mc Assists
Dub-Mc supports business owners in navigating partner visa UAE, investor visa, and business visa Dubai processes. They help ensure you meet partnership visa requirements, trade license UAE rules, visa sponsorship needs, and business license UAE obligations. Link to their services for setup, licensing, establishment card, and visa processing.
Quick Snapshot of Requirements & Steps
| Requirement | Next Step |
| Trade license + ownership | Secure company and license |
| Establishment card | Apply via immigration authority |
| Entry permit | Submit documents and apply |
| Medical + Emirates ID | Complete tests and biometrics |
| Visa stamping | Finalize residency status |
| Maintain business | Renew visa as needed |
Final Thoughts
If you know the procedure, applying for a business partner visa in the UAE is not as difficult as it might appear. You position yourself for easy approval by obtaining your business license, getting the necessary paperwork ready, and carefully following the visa procedures. Keeping abreast of the regulations guarantees that your residency will be valid as your business expands, whether you’re in Dubai or another emirate.
