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Golden Visa and time abroad
Golden Visa holders are exempt from the rule that voids a residence visa after 180 days outside the UAE.
What the source says
"Golden Residence Permit holders are exempt from the 180-day residency law, as the residency is considered void only if it expires outside the country."
GDRFA Dubai Golden Residence service card
| Status | Confirmed - The official source states this rule in the words quoted. |
|---|---|
| Instrument | GDRFA Dubai Golden Residence service card |
| Authority | GDRFA Dubai |
| In force since | Not stated |
| Last checked | 26 September 2026 |
| Source | GDRFA Dubai |
Read the full guide
This rule is explained in context, with the costs and steps around it, in GDRFA Dubai.
More rules on visas
- Golden Visa property threshold - Confirmed
- Golden Visa term for property investors - Sources disagree
- What the AED 2 million is measured on - Sources disagree
- Bank letter for a mortgaged Golden Visa property - Sources disagree
- Lien on a Golden Visa property - Confirmed
- Golden Visa sponsorship of children - Sources disagree
See all 60 rules in the register.
Cite this rule
Home Guide Dubai, "Golden Visa and time abroad", Dubai property rules register, last checked 26 September 2026.
https://homeguidedubai.com/rules/golden-visa-180-day-exemption/
This link stays the same when the rule changes. If the rule changes, this page shows the new text and the date it changed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this still the rule today?
We last read the source on 26 September 2026. Rules in Dubai change by circular and by edits to service pages, often without notice. Check the source linked above, and ask GDRFA Dubai in writing before a large payment.
Where does this rule come from?
GDRFA Dubai Golden Residence service card, published by GDRFA Dubai. The quote on this page is copied word for word from that source.
Sources
- GDRFA Dubai Golden Residence service card - GDRFA Dubai - accessed 26 September 2026
Every rule above is quoted from the law, decree or official page on the date given. This is general information, not legal advice; rules change, so confirm the current position with the authority named before you act.