Emergency support for UAE golden visa holders
The recent evacuation efforts that enabled so many stranded residents to return to the UAE have underscored the support structure in place for long-term residents based abroad, especially Golden Visa holders.
Recently, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) and the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) facilitated the return home of nearly 500 Golden Visa holders and residents who were affected by regional developments that disrupted flight operations and resulted in closure of airspace.
The initiative has also highlighted the UAE’s enhanced consular services abroad for Golden Visa holders, which have been launched to provide them with further assistance in times of emergencies and crises.
Confidence in long-term residency
Interest in the UAE’s Golden Visa remains strong despite regional tensions, with visa consultants and service centres reporting a steady stream of enquiries from professionals and investors looking for long-term residency.
The applicants’ effort to gain long-term status in the country is, according to industry representatives, a sign of confidence in the UAE’s ongoing stability and economic prospects.
Golden Visa holders consular services
In October 2025, a selection of consular services were launched for Golden Visa holders by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said to be a world first.
The authorities extended the provision of emergency and crisis response services — previously exclusive to UAE citizens — also for Golden Visa holders.
These alter the extent of support and care that Golden Visa holders will receive abroad.
Golden Visa holders can benefit from under the scheme:
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Electronic return documents if their passport is lost or damaged while overseas.
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A direct hotline to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
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24/7 emergency and crisis support including during evacuation operations.
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Residence permits are usually granted to foreign nationals such as spouse, children, etc., who hold a valid residence permit and are registered officially as dependants.
How the Return Document works
Among these essential services that the GDRFA has highlighted is one which enables Golden Visa holders outside of the UAE to request a Return Document for entering the country in case their passport goes missing or gets damaged.
This is being done through MoFA’s website or smart application using their digital identity UAE Pass to apply.
Applicants should upload the following to request the document:
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A copy of lost passport report
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Golden Visa details
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A recent personal photograph with a white background.
The document is usually issued in 25 to 30 minutes, the MoFA said.
The Return Document is:
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Free of charge
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Applicable for one entry to the UAE
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Good for seven days from date issued
It is only a one-way travel document for return to the UAE and cannot be used for onward travel or transit through other countries. The person would then need to return to the UAE and renew their travel documents from within.
Holders of Golden Visas can reach MoFA’s 24/7 call centre at +971 2493 1133 (for calls from outside the UAE).
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