Renowned actor Rajinikanth has been bestowed with the prestigious UAE Golden Visa by the Department of Culture and Tourism in the UAE. Expressing his gratitude on social media, the superstar thanked the Abu Dhabi Government and MA Yusuff Ali, the chairman and managing director of Lulu Group, for their instrumental roles in securing this accolade.
In a widely circulated video, Rajinikanth conveyed his deep honor in receiving the esteemed UAE Golden Visa from the Abu Dhabi government, extending his sincere appreciation to both the government and Mr. Yusuff Ali for their unwavering support.
During his recent visit to the UAE, Rajinikanth met with MA Yusuff Ali and other key executives of Lulu Group. The actor and the entrepreneur were even spotted sharing a ride in a Rolls Royce, fueling speculation about potential collaborations between the superstar and the Lulu Group owner. Here’s everything you need to know about this prestigious visa.
Understanding the Golden Visa
The Golden Visa is a long-term residence visa granted to individuals from other countries, offering opportunities for study, work, or residency in the UAE, along with exclusive benefits. Here are some key highlights:
- Duration: The visa includes a six-month entry visa with multiple entries, along with a renewable residence visa valid for either 5 or 10 years, thereby eliminating the requirement for a sponsor.
Flexibility: Golden visa holders can maintain visa validity by residing outside the UAE for over six months. They can also sponsor family members and domestic helpers, ensuring their accommodation in the event of the primary holder’s passing until the visa expiration.
Prerequisites: The requirements for the Golden Visa vary depending on the residency category:
- Public investment investors must demonstrate a deposit or capital of AED 2 million, evidence of annual tax payments amounting to at least AED 250,000, and maintain full ownership of the invested capital.
- Real estate investors must possess properties valued at a minimum of 2 million dirhams or acquire property via an approved loan from designated local banks.
- Entrepreneurs must present economically innovative projects endorsed by authorities, auditors, and business incubators.
- Exceptional talents, including doctors, scientists, and inventors, must fulfill specific criteria and secure approval letters from pertinent authorities.
- Exceptional talents, such as doctors and scientists, may receive a 10-year Golden Visa upon approval from respective authorities.
- Inventors require a recommendation letter from the Ministry of Economy, while individuals excelling in culture and arts must obtain an approval letter from the Department of Culture and Arts in their respective emirate.