Key Highlights:

• Tourist and work visa suspensions don’t affect Golden Visa eligibility for Lebanese nationals based on investment or professional credentials.
• Property investment of AED 2 million or a skilled professional salary of AED 30,000 opens pathways. 
• UAE-Lebanon diplomatic relations strengthened in 2025 with President Aoun’s official visit and embassy operations resuming.
• Property investor visa duration varies by emirate with conflicting official sources; verify current requirements before applying.

In October 2025, you heard reports about the UAE suspending visas for Lebanese nationals. You’re wondering if the Golden Visa door has closed for you too. 

Let us clear this up immediately. The tourist and work visa suspensions do not affect Golden Visa applications. The Golden Visa operates under a completely separate federal system managed by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), not standard visa channels.​

Lebanese nationals can still qualify through property investment starting at AED 2 million, business capital, or professional qualifications with a basic salary of AED 30,000.

Keep reading this article to learn more. ​

Understanding the Golden Visa vs. Standard Visa Suspensions

Here’s the critical distinction you need to understand.

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term renewable residency permit (5-10 years) that doesn’t require a sponsor. It’s designed for investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, scientists, and exceptional talents who can contribute to the UAE’s knowledge-based economy. 

Unlike tourist visas or standard employment visas processed through local immigration offices, the Golden Visa applications flow through the ICP federal system.​

When reports surfaced about visa suspensions for Lebanese citizens, many assumed all pathways were blocked. The reality is different. The suspension targets tourist and work permits, categories that rely on sponsor relationships and short-term stays. Golden Visa pathways based on investment and expertise continue processing because they’re evaluated on merit, capital contribution, and professional qualifications, not nationality-based quotas.​

This means if you own property worth AED 2 million or more, earn a basic salary of AED 30,000 monthly, or run a business with significant capital, your application route remains open. The key is understanding which category fits your profile and preparing documentation that meets federal standards.​

Why Lebanese Professionals Are Choosing the Golden Visa in 2026

Lebanon’s economic crisis isn’t improving.

The Lebanese pound lost over 98% of its value since 2019, crashing GDP by nearly 40% between 2019 and 2024. Inflation continues hovering around 15% in 2025, with education costs rising by 30.57% year-over-year and rental prices jumping 28.31%. The World Bank estimates war-related damages at $14 billion, with $6.8 billion in physical asset destruction and 166,000 jobs lost.​

You feel this every day. Electricity cuts disrupt your work. Banks limit withdrawals. Your salary, if paid in Lebanese pounds, buys less each month. Your children’s school fees doubled, and you’re not sure how to afford university tuition.

The UAE offers the opposite reality. Tax-free income means you keep what you earn. The dirham maintains stable purchasing power against the dollar. Quality healthcare systems operate 24/7 without power interruptions. International schools follow British, American, and IB curricula with consistent fee structures.​

Success story: Jake El Mir, a 20-year-old Lebanese tech entrepreneur, experienced this transformation firsthand. He was running his mobile app business from Beirut struggling with electricity cuts and internet blackouts that prevented him from attending client meetings. After securing his Golden Visa under the entrepreneurship category in 2022, he relocated to Dubai and scaled his business without infrastructure constraints.​

Beyond economic stability, the Golden Visa delivers family security through comprehensive sponsorship rights. You can bring your spouse, children of any age (including adult sons and married daughters), parents, and unlimited domestic helpers. Your family members receive residence permits matching your visa duration, with access to the same healthcare, education, and business opportunities.​

Current UAE-Lebanon Relations: What You Need to Know

Diplomatic relations between the UAE and Lebanon warmed significantly in 2025.

President Joseph Aoun’s official visit to the UAE on April 30-May 1, 2025, marked a turning point. During meetings with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, both leaders committed to “reinforce fraternal ties” and collaborate on economic, diplomatic, and institutional development.​

On May 7, 2025, the UAE lifted its travel ban for Emirati citizens traveling to Lebanon, signaling restored confidence in bilateral relations. The UAE embassy in Beirut resumed operations in 2025, and Ambassador H.E. Fahad Al Kaabi presented his credentials in November 2025.​

These diplomatic developments matter for your Golden Visa application because they demonstrate the UAE’s commitment to maintaining institutional channels with Lebanon, even while implementing selective visa controls. The October 2025 tourist and work visa suspensions reflect security screening protocols, not a blanket rejection of Lebanese talent.​

Disclaimer: Visa policies can change based on diplomatic relations and security assessments. Always verify current requirements through official UAE government sources before starting your application.

Golden Visa Eligibility Categories for Lebanese Applicants

You have multiple pathways to qualify, depending on your financial position and professional background.

1. Real Estate Investors

If you can invest AED 2 million (approximately USD 545,000) in UAE property, you qualify for a renewable Golden Visa.​

Important Note on Visa Duration: The official UAE portal (u.ae) states 5 years, while the Dubai Land Department and ICP service pages indicate 10 years. This discrepancy may reflect emirate-specific policies or recent updates. Verify the exact duration with the relevant emirate’s land department when applying.​

What qualifies:

• Ready properties in freehold zones
• Off-plan developments from approved developers
• Commercial or residential units
• Multiple properties totaling AED 2 million within the same emirate​

Important considerations:
Mortgaged properties are accepted if you’ve paid at least AED 2 million in equity with a bank No Objection Certificate (NOC) confirming the payment. The property requires registration with the Dubai Land Department (or the relevant emirate’s land authority) in your name.​

Required documents:

• Title deed or e-Certificate of Title
• Property valuation certificate (if applying based on current market value)
• Bank NOC if mortgaged
• Passport copy with 6+ months validity
• Health insurance valid for 1+ year​

2. Business Investors: 10-Year Golden Visa

For entrepreneurs running established companies, you need AED 2 million in capital investment in a UAE-registered business.​

Alternative pathways:

• AED 2 million deposit in UAE bank or approved investment fund (minimum 2 years)​
• AED 250,000 annual tax payment to UAE government​

Required documents:

• Commercial or industrial license
• Company incorporation contract showing capital
• Letter from Federal Tax Authority (for tax-based route)
• Valid passport and health insurance​

3. Skilled Professionals: 10-Year Golden Visa

This pathway works if you’re employed in the UAE with strong credentials.

Mandatory requirements:

• AED 30,000 basic monthly salary (excluding allowances)​
• Bachelor’s degree minimum, attested by UAE MOFA
• Employment in MOHRE Level 1 or 2 occupations​
• Valid employment contract
• 6 months of bank statements showing AED 30,000+ salary deposits​

Example of qualifying vs. non-qualifying salary:

MOHRE Level 1 and 2 occupations include:

• Managers and Business Executives
• Scientists, Engineers, IT Specialists
• Healthcare Professionals, Educators
• Legal and Financial Professionals​

Regulated professions like doctors, pharmacists, and teachers require valid UAE practicing licenses.​

4. Executive Directors: 10-Year Golden Visa

If you hold senior management positions, you need:

• AED 50,000 monthly salary
• University degree (certified)
• Minimum 5 years experience
• Valid employment contract​

5. Entrepreneurs

The 5-Year Entrepreneur Visa requires:

• Minimum project value of AED 500,000 (certified by UAE auditor)
• Approval from emirate authority confirming technical or innovative nature
• Approval from accredited business incubator (Area 2071 Dubai, Hub71 Abu Dhabi, or Ma’an)​

The 10-year entrepreneur visa requires one of the following:

• SME with AED 1 million+ annual revenue​
• Incubator-approved startup concept
• Previous startup exit valued at AED 7 million+​

Step-by-Step Application Process for Lebanese Citizens

Let me walk you through the exact process.

Step 1: Eligibility Assessment

Start by using the ICP. Select your category based on investment capacity or professional qualifications.​

Common mistake: Applying under the wrong category causes immediate rejection. If you earn an AED 30,000 basic salary, apply as a skilled professional, not as an investor.​ 

Step 2: Document Preparation and Attestation

Attestation sequence for Lebanese documents:​

1. Lebanese notary public
2. Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants
3. UAE Embassy in Beirut
4. UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Documents requiring attestation:

• Educational certificates (bachelor’s degree, master’s, PhD)
• Marriage certificates (for spouse sponsorship)
• Birth certificates (for children sponsorship)
• Employment contracts and salary certificates​

Translation requirements:

All non-Arabic or non-English documents need certified translation. Salary certificates must be in Arabic. Translation services in Dubai charge AED 200-500 per document.​

Power of Attorney option:

Authorize a representative in Lebanon or the UAE to handle attestation processes on your behalf if you’re already in the UAE.​

Step 3: Online Application Submission

Official channels:​

• Federal ICP Portal or ICP UAE Smart mobile app
• GDRFA Dubai (for Dubai residents)

Application fees:

• Application fee: AED 100
• Smart service fee: AED 100​

You’ll need UAE Pass authentication to access the portal. If you don’t have UAE Pass, create an account using your Emirates ID (if already in UAE) or passport details.​

Step 4: Nomination Approval

Processing timeline:

• Standard: 2-4 weeks
• Complex cases: Up to 30 days​

The ICP system uses AI screening to detect document inconsistencies, font mismatches, or formatting issues. Any discrepancy can trigger rejection, so ensure all documents are original scans, not edited PDFs.​

You’ll receive email and SMS notifications at each approval stage.​

Step 5: Medical Fitness Examination

Mandatory for ages 18+​

Tests include:

• Tuberculosis screening (chest X-ray)
• Blood tests for HIV, Hepatitis B and C, syphilis​

Approved centers:

• Dubai: DHA-approved facilities (Smart Salem centers)
• Other emirates: EHS medical centers​

Processing time: 24-48 hours standard; VIP services available in 30 minutes​

Cost: AED 320-700 depending on emirate and service level​

Step 6: Entry to UAE (If Applying from Outside)

If you’re applying from Lebanon, you receive a 6-month multiple-entry visa after nomination approval. This allows you to enter the UAE to complete medical tests and biometrics.​

Step 7: Visa Cancellation (If Applicable)

If you hold an existing UAE employment visa, you must cancel it before Golden Visa issuance.​

Step 8: Biometric Registration

Visit ICP or Amer centers for fingerprinting and photographs. The Emirates ID application processes simultaneously with biometric capture.​

Step 9: Golden Visa and Emirates ID Issuance

Timeline:

• Digital visa: 3-5 working days after medical clearance​
• Physical Emirates ID: 3-5 days after approval (expedited options available)​

Total timeline from application to Emirates ID:

• Straightforward cases: 7-10 business days
• Complex cases: Up to 30 days​

Physical visa stamps are no longer required. Everything is electronic and linked to your passport number.​

Also Read: 20 Dubai Real Estate Trends for Golden Visa Investors in 2026

Complete Cost Breakdown for Lebanese Applicants in 2026

Let me break down every cost so you can budget accurately.

1. Investment Thresholds

2. Government Fees: Property Investor (Dubai)

Note: The total cost may vary based on visa duration (5-year vs. 10-year). Verify current fees with the Dubai Land Department or relevant government authority. 

3. Government Fees: Skilled Professional (10-Year)

4. Additional Costs for Lebanese Applicants

5. Family Sponsorship Costs

Total realistic budget for Lebanese applicant (professional pathway):

• Government fees: AED 5,847-6,310
• Attestation (4 documents): AED 2,000-6,000
• Translation: AED 800-2,000
• Health insurance: AED 1,200-3,000
• Grand total: AED 9,847-17,310 (excluding investment)

Disclaimer: Fees are subject to change by UAE government authorities. Verify current rates through relevant emirate land departments before submitting applications. Attestation costs vary based on document type and service provider in Lebanon.

Special Considerations for Lebanese Applicants

Let me address the specific challenges you’ll face as a Lebanese national.

1. Document Attestation Timeline

Lebanese government service disruptions can delay MOFA attestation significantly. Plan for 2-3 months minimum from starting attestation to receiving UAE MOFA approval. This is substantially longer than applicants from countries with efficient bureaucratic systems.​

Solution: The UAE Embassy in Beirut offers digital attestation services. Log in through the UAE MOFA website, select Lebanese Republic as the country of issuance, upload documents, and a UAE MOFA-approved service provider will schedule pickup of originals. You receive digitally attested documents via email, certified by both the UAE Embassy in Beirut and the UAE MOFA.​

If you married outside Lebanon (for example, in Cyprus or France), obtain attestation from that country’s MOFA plus the UAE embassy in that country. This often processes faster than routing through Lebanese authorities.​

2. Processing Time Variations

While standard Golden Visa processing takes 7-10 business days, some Lebanese applicants experience extended periods of 2-8 weeks, particularly when transitioning from employment visas to Golden Visas. 

The property investment pathway through the Dubai Land Department tends to have more predictable timelines because it doesn’t require employer sponsorship or NOC documentation.​

3. Employer NOC Requirement for Professionals

Your company must provide a No Objection Certificate on official letterhead, signed by the HR manager or authorized signatory, with the company stamp. This confirms they support your Golden Visa application and understand you’ll transition to self-sponsored status.​

Your bank statements must show 6 consecutive months of salary deposits. The deposits should remain in your account for reasonable periods, not be withdrawn the next day.​

Family Sponsorship: The Golden Visa Advantage

This is where the Golden Visa truly outperforms standard residence permits.

Who You Can Sponsor

No age restrictions on children: Unlike standard visas that limit sons to age 18 (sometimes 25 for students), Golden Visa holders sponsor sons and daughters of any age. Your 30-year-old son can live with you in Dubai. Your married daughter and her children can receive sponsored residence.​

Parents: You can sponsor both mother and father with proof of dependency. This typically requires a consular certificate or affidavit confirming financial dependency.​

Domestic helpers: Unlimited sponsorship for household staff. Large or multi-generational households can bring necessary support.​

Sponsorship Process

1. Confirm your Golden Visa is active and approved
2. Open sponsor file via ICP Smart Services (federal) or GDRFA Dubai portal
3. Submit family applications with attested relationship documents
4. Obtain entry permits for family members outside the UAE.
5. Complete medical tests and biometrics for all dependents (age 18+)
6. Receive digital residence permits and Emirates IDs​

Required Documents for Family Sponsorship

Common Application Mistakes to Avoid

Based on ICP rejection data, here are the errors that derail applications.

• Incomplete attestation chain: Missing any step in the Lebanese notary → Lebanese MOFA → UAE Embassy Beirut → UAE MOFA sequence causes automatic rejection.​
• Expired documents: Passports, licenses, and degrees must have 6+ months validity.​
• Inconsistent information: Name spelling variations across passport, degree certificate, and employment contract trigger AI screening alerts. If your passport shows “Mohammad” but your degree says “Mohammed,” get an affidavit explaining the variation.​
• Category selection errors: Applying as an Investor when you qualify as a Professional (or vice versa) causes rejection. Total salary package of AED 35,000 doesn’t qualify if the basic salary is AED 28,000.​
• Property valuation issues: Current market value determines eligibility, not original purchase price. If you bought property for AED 2.2 million in 2020 but the current valuation shows AED 1.9 million, you don’t qualify.​
• Unresolved UAE fines: Outstanding traffic fines, parking violations, or previous visa overstays must be cleared before application.​
• Missing health insurance: Mandatory for the applicant and all sponsored dependents, with a minimum 1-year validity.​

Alternative Visa Pathways If You Don’t Qualify Yet

You have options if you can’t meet Golden Visa requirements immediately.

1. Green Visa (5-Year)

Skilled employees pathway:

• Bachelor’s degree
• AED 15,000+ monthly salary
• Self-sponsored (no employer dependency)​

Freelancer’s pathway:

• Freelance permit from MOHRE
• AED 360,000 income over 2 years OR proof of financial solvency​

The Green Visa offers self-sponsorship flexibility at half the salary threshold of the Golden Visa’s AED 30,000 requirement.​

2. Silver Visa (5-Year)

Real estate pathway:

• AED 1 million property investment​

Retirees’ pathway:

• Age 55+
• AED 1 million property OR AED 500,000 savings/pension income​

3. 2-Year Property Investor Visa

Requirements:

• Minimum AED 750,000 property value​

This visa provides a stepping stone. As your property appreciates or you acquire additional properties reaching AED 2 million total, upgrade to the Golden Visa.​

Also Read: UAE Golden Visa Questions Answered: JSB Founder on Talk 100.3 FM

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can Lebanese citizens apply for a UAE Golden Visa despite the October 2025 visa restrictions?

Yes. Tourist and work visa suspensions operate through different channels than Golden Visa applications processed via the federal ICP system. Lebanese nationals qualifying through property investment (AED 2 million+), business investment, or professional qualifications (AED 30,000+ basic salary) apply through pathways that remain open.​

2. What is the minimum property investment for Lebanese citizens to get a Golden Visa?

AED 2,000,000 (approximately USD 545,000) in UAE real estate. Properties can be ready, off-plan, commercial, or residential in freehold zones. Mortgaged properties qualify if you’ve paid AED 2 million in equity with a bank NOC.​

3. Is the property Golden Visa for 5 years or 10 years?

There is conflicting information from official UAE sources. The UAE.ae portal states 5 years, while the Dubai Land Department and ICP service pages indicate 10 years. This discrepancy may reflect emirate-specific policies. Verify the exact duration with the relevant emirate’s land department when applying.​

4. Do I need to be inside the UAE to apply?

You can submit initial applications from outside the UAE, but you must enter the UAE to complete medical tests, biometric registration, and Emirates ID issuance. A 6-month multiple-entry visa is provided for document completion.​

5. Can Golden Visa holders sponsor parents and adult children?

Yes. Golden Visa holders can sponsor spouses, children of unlimited age (including married daughters and sons over 25), parents, and unlimited domestic helpers.​

6. What is the salary requirement for skilled professionals?

AED 30,000 basic monthly salary (excluding allowances) with a bachelor’s degree and employment in MOHRE Level 1 or 2 classifications. Bank statements must show 6 months of consistent AED 30,000+ salary deposits.​

7. What documents need attestation?

Educational certificates, personal documents (birth/marriage certificates), employment contracts, and salary certificates require attestation through Lebanese notary → Lebanese MOFA → UAE Embassy Beirut → UAE MOFA. Start 2-3 months early due to potential delays.​

8. Can I work for any company with a Golden Visa?

Yes. Golden Visa holders are self-sponsored and not tied to a specific employer. You can work for multiple companies, switch jobs freely, start businesses, or work as a freelancer without employer sponsorship.​

9. What happens if I sell my property after getting a Golden Visa?

Property Golden Visas require maintaining the AED 2 million investment throughout the validity period. If you sell and an investment drops below AED 2 million, a visa may be cancelled unless you reinvest or switch to another qualifying category.​

10. Do Lebanese professionals earning AED 30,000+ qualify?

Yes, if you have a basic salary of AED 30,000 (excluding allowances), a bachelor’s degree (attested), employment in approved MOHRE Level 1/2 fields, and 6 months’ bank statements showing salary deposits. Employer NOC and salary certificate in Arabic required.​

11. Do I need a UAE sponsor for a Golden Visa?

No. Golden Visa is self-sponsored residency. You don’t need a local sponsor, employer, or family member to maintain residency, providing complete independence.​

How JSB Incorporation Can Help You Secure Your Golden Visa

The Golden Visa application process involves complex documentation, precise attestation sequences, and category-specific requirements that change based on your financial position and professional background.

JSB Incorporation has helped many professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs through successful Golden Visa applications. We understand the specific challenges Lebanese nationals face, from attestation delays in Beirut to processing timeline variations for employment-based applications.

Contact JSB Incorporation today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward securing your UAE Golden Visa.