Why having a second residency in the UAE provides stability in today’s world
Life can be unpredictable. Whether that’s just a feeling or a fact remains to be seen, but what we do know is that people are increasingly looking to areas of the world that provide stability and security for their businesses and families.
This is why the UAE has been such an attractive destination for second residency for so many years. The country is safe and politically stable, its economy is strong and resilient, and your finances are secure here. And that’s what I want to discuss in this article – the fact that when it comes down to the details, there’s no better option for second residency than the UAE. Because, in addition to the factors I’ve listed, it’s one of the best places in the world to live in terms of lifestyle.
Today, the UAE is front and centre on the world stage. It hosts some of the largest global events, it attracts millions of tourists and business people each year, and it continues to leverage its position at the crossroads of three continents.
So, with all that in mind, let’s look in detail at why the UAE is the premier location for second residency. I’ll start by outlining why you might want to think about second residency in the first place, the various benefits, then we will look at how you can acquire second residency in the UAE.
Benefits of acquiring second residency in the UAE
Let’s look at some of the benefits of acquiring second residency in the UAE:
- Asset and financial security: Stable environment to diversify and safeguard assets from political or economic uncertainties.
- Tax advantages: No personal income tax, making it attractive for entrepreneurs.
- Political and social stability: Low crime rates and strong governance.
- High-quality services: Access to top-tier healthcare and education.
Let’s now look at some of these in more detail.
Economy and financial security
In 2025, the UAE is expected to remain the fastest-growing economy in the GCC. It is projected to grow by 6.7% this year, up from 3.8% last year. This is driven by diversification as well as strong trade ties with neighbours. As always, the UAE’s tourism industry continues to grow and make a substantial contribution to GDP.
Dubai’s banking sector underpins the UAE’s financial security, with stringent regulatory frameworks that ensure transparency and protect against financial risks. Additionally, advanced digital infrastructure and cybersecurity measures safeguard customer transactions and data, building and nurturing trust in the city’s financial systems.
The emirate’s tax policies further enhance its financial attractiveness with no personal income tax or capital gains tax, and its corporate tax rate ranging from 0% to 9% depending on how your company is structured. This makes it an ideal place for wealth accumulation and financial growth – in a secure environment for residents and investors alike.
Political stability
The country’s leadership has successfully navigated regional challenges and created a climate of stability and growth, ensuring it remains a safe and prosperous hub for business and leisure. This political stability is crucial for long-term security, providing residents and investors with a sense of confidence in their future, free from the turbulence often seen in neighbouring regions.
Simultaneously, the UAE’s ‘soft power’ is on the rise. The country has steadily gained influence through cultural appeal, diplomacy, education and trade. In a 2023 survey, the UAE ranked 10th globally in soft power. This is significant, as soft power enables the country to shape global perceptions and forge alliances, a strategy Western powers have used for decades to enhance their global standing. This growing influence bolsters the UAE’s international clout and further solidifies its position as a major player on the world stage.
Personal and family safety
Anyone who has visited the UAE from another part of the world is usually amazed by how safe and secure the streets feel. But this isn’t just anecdotal – in Numbeo’s 2024 Safety Index, Abu Dhabi came first and Dubai fourth. That’s first and fourth in the entire world. Meanwhile, the 2024 Gitnux Marketdata Report named the UAE as the third safest country globally. With low crime rates and no domestic terrorism, the UAE is a place where you can feel at home, with a safe and secure environment for children.
How to get UAE residency
The UAE offers multiple pathways to secure residency, each tailored to different types of individuals –
whether investors, professionals, or retirees. Here’s a breakdown of the most common routes:
- Company formation visa: Entrepreneurs or investors can establish a business in the UAE and obtain residency through company formation. Free zones offer straightforward processes to register businesses and issue visas. This route is attractive due to the UAE’s tax-free policies and access to global markets.
- Real estate investment visa: Purchasing property worth a minimum of AED 750,000 qualifies investors for a two-year residency visa. The Golden Visa scheme offers 10-year residency for property investments above AED 2m. This option allows investors to include family members and enjoy long-term stability.
- Employment visa: Securing a job with a UAE-based company grants employees and their dependents residency for the duration of the employment contract. Sponsorship is handled by the employer, making this one of the most common routes for professionals moving to the UAE.
- Remote work visa: The UAE has introduced a one-year remote work visa for digital nomads. This visa allows individuals to live in the UAE while working remotely for a company outside the country. Applicants must prove employment with a foreign company and meet specific income thresholds, making it an ideal option for remote workers seeking flexibility.
- Retiree visa: Residents aged 55 and older can apply for a five-year renewable retiree visa. There are a number of eligibility routes, including AED 1m savings in a three-year fixed deposit; or AED 1m in property – as well as many other routes.
Top of the list
The UAE’s allure extends beyond its security and stability. The country’s desirable lifestyle, top-line amenities, and world-class infrastructure create a business-friendly and enjoyable environment. From iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa to pristine beaches and world-renowned shopping destinations, the UAE offers a high standard of living that appeals to individuals from all walks of life. But the country is still a unique blend of modernity and tradition, and that’s what makes it such a unique destination for global second residency. There really is nowhere quite like it.
So, when it comes down to selecting the most secure and stable environment for your business and your family, the UAE will always be at the top of the list. Its outstanding record in personal safety, family stability, financial security, and political stability makes it a top choice for those seeking the best possible future for their families and businesses.
