Why Dubai is the Best Place for Families and How to Get a Family Visa for Dubai and Residency Through Company Formation

The city offers a safe and family-friendly environment, excellent career opportunities, and an unparalleled standard of living.

For expatriates, one of the key concerns when moving to Dubai is securing a residence visa for their family members. The good news is that Dubai provides multiple pathways to obtaining a family visa, allowing spouses, children, and even parents to join their loved ones in the UAE. Among these options, company formation stands out as a strategic approach that not only allows entrepreneurs to establish their business presence in Dubai but also enables them to sponsor their family’s residency visa.

In this guide, we will explore why Dubai is an ideal place for families and provide a step-by-step breakdown of how to obtain a Dubai family visa through company formation. Whether you're a business owner looking to relocate with your loved ones or an expatriate seeking long-term stability in the UAE, this article will help you navigate the process smoothly.

Why Dubai is Perfect for Families

Dubai is more than just a global business hub—it is also a thriving city designed to support families with its high standards of safety, quality education, healthcare, and entertainment. Here’s why it stands out as an ideal destination for families looking to relocate.

A Safe and Secure Environment

One of the key reasons families choose Dubai is its exceptionally low crime rate and strong law enforcement. The UAE consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world, providing peace of mind for parents raising children. Whether in residential communities, public parks, or commercial districts, safety is a top priority, making Dubai a welcoming home for expatriates from all over the world.

World-Class Education System

Dubai boasts a wide range of international schools following globally recognized curricula such as the British, American, IB (International Baccalaureate), French, and Indian education systems. These schools offer state-of-the-art facilities, experienced educators, and diverse extracurricular programs to ensure children receive the best possible education. Additionally, Dubai is home to prestigious universities and higher education institutions, making it an excellent place for students to continue their academic journey.

Top-Tier Healthcare Services

Access to high-quality healthcare is crucial for families, and Dubai excels in this area. The city has world-class hospitals and medical centers, many of which are accredited by international healthcare organizations. Whether for routine check-ups, maternity care, or specialized treatments, families have access to cutting-edge medical facilities and highly qualified doctors. Moreover, the UAE government mandates health insurance for all residents, ensuring families receive comprehensive healthcare coverage.

Unmatched Lifestyle and Leisure Options

Dubai is designed to offer families an enriching and exciting lifestyle. Some of the best family-friendly attractions include:

• Theme Parks – Dubai is home to Legoland, Motiongate, IMG Worlds of Adventure, and Aquaventure Waterpark, providing endless entertainment for children.
• Beaches and Outdoor Spaces – Families can enjoy Dubai’s pristine public beaches, waterfront promenades, and green parks, perfect for weekend outings.
• Shopping & Dining – Dubai’s mega malls, such as The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, offer more than just shopping—they feature indoor ski slopes, aquariums, cinemas, and play zones.
• Cultural and Heritage Sites – Families can explore historic districts like Al Fahidi, museums, and traditional souks, blending modernity with rich cultural experiences.

Economic Stability and Career Opportunities

Dubai is known for its booming economy and tax-friendly policies, making it an attractive place for professionals and entrepreneurs. The city offers numerous career opportunities across various industries, including finance, technology, healthcare, and tourism. Additionally, setting up a business in Dubai provides not only financial benefits but also the opportunity to secure residency for family members, making it a strategic move for business owners looking for long-term stability.

How to Get a Family Visa and Residency in Dubai Through Company Formation

If you’re planning to move to Dubai with your family, securing a family visa is essential. One of the most effective ways to obtain a family visa is through company formation, which allows business owners to sponsor their spouse, children, and even parents under certain conditions. The UAE embassy plays a crucial role in providing necessary information and support for family visa applications. Below is a step-by-step guide to obtaining a family visa through company formation.

1. Setting Up Your Business in Dubai

To begin the process, you need to establish a company in Dubai. This can be either a free zone company or an onshore company (mainland company). The key advantage of company formation is that it enables you, as a business owner, to sponsor family members for a residence visa.

• Free Zone Companies – Suitable for foreign investors looking to operate with 100% ownership and tax advantages. Some free zones have specific regulations regarding family sponsorship, so it’s important to check the eligibility requirements.
• Mainland Companies – Offer more flexibility in business operations and sponsorship opportunities, including the ability to sponsor family members with fewer restrictions.

2. Meeting the Family Visa Requirements

To qualify for a family residence visa, you must meet specific sponsorship criteria set by UAE authorities. These include:

• Valid Residency & Business Status – As a business owner, you must have a valid residence visa and an active company registered in Dubai.
• Minimum Salary Requirement – You must earn a monthly salary that meets the UAE government’s minimum threshold for family sponsorship.
• Accommodation Proof – You need to provide proof of suitable housing, typically a two-bedroom apartment or larger, depending on family size.
• Written No-Objection Certificate – When sponsoring stepchildren, a written no-objection certificate from the biological parent is necessary.

3. Preparing the Required Documents

When applying for a family visa, you must submit the following documents:

For the Sponsor (Company Owner):

• Valid passport copy
• Emirates ID and residence visa copy
• Business license and company registration documents
• Salary certificate or proof of income

For Each Family Member:

• Passport copies
• Attested marriage certificate (for spouse)
• Attested birth certificates (for children)
• Medical fitness test results (for dependents over 18)
• Health insurance policy (mandatory in Dubai)
• Emirates ID application form

4. The Family Visa Application Process

Once all documents are ready, follow these steps to apply for a family visa:

• Submit the application through the UAE immigration department or a typing center.
• Pay the required visa fees, which vary depending on the visa type and duration.
• Family members undergo a medical fitness test (for dependents over 18).
• Once approved, the visa is issued, and your family can legally reside in Dubai.
• Upon arrival, family members must complete the Emirates ID registration to access government services.

5. Family Visa Cost in Dubai

The cost of a family visa in Dubai can vary based on several factors, including the type of visa, the duration of stay, and additional service charges.

When planning to move to Dubai or renew a family visa, it is crucial to factor in these expenses. The family visa cost is a significant consideration for families living in the UAE, and budgeting for these costs can help ensure a smooth transition and avoid any financial surprises.

6. UAE Family Visa Validity Period

A UAE family visa is typically valid for 2 years, but it can also be issued for 1 or 3 years, depending on the sponsor’s visa status. If the sponsor’s visa expires or is canceled, the family visas become invalid. To avoid penalties and legal issues, UAE authorities provide a 30-day grace period for visa renewal. It is highly recommended to start the renewal process within this period.

The validity duration for a UAE family visa may vary depending on the type of visa. It is essential for the sponsor to renew their visa before it expires to ensure the family members’ visas remain valid. Timely renewal of family visas is crucial to maintaining legal residency status in the UAE.

7. Benefits of a UAE Family Visa

A UAE family visa offers numerous benefits to families living in the UAE. One of the primary advantages is the ability to live and work in the UAE, providing a stable and secure environment for family members. Additionally, a UAE family visa grants access to various benefits and services, including healthcare and education, ensuring that families have the necessary support for a high-quality lifestyle.

The UAE family visa also provides extended residency privileges, making it easier for families to plan their lives in the UAE. For instance, the 10-year golden family visa offers long-term residency without the need for frequent renewals, providing families with more flexibility and convenience. Overall, a UAE family visa is an essential document that offers a range of benefits and privileges, contributing to a better quality of life for families in the UAE.

8. Medical Insurance for Family Members

Medical insurance is a mandatory requirement for all residence permit applications in Dubai, including family visas. The sponsor must provide medical insurance for their family members, with a minimum coverage of AED 150,000 per person. This insurance policy must be renewed annually, and proof of medical insurance is required when applying for a family visa.

The medical insurance policy must cover the family members for the entire duration of their stay in the UAE. Sponsors can choose from a variety of medical insurance providers, including both local and international companies. It is essential to carefully review the terms and conditions of the medical insurance policy to ensure it meets the requirements set by UAE authorities. Having adequate medical insurance ensures that family members have access to necessary healthcare services, contributing to their overall well-being and peace of mind.

Additional Considerations: Minimum Salary

• Dependent Visa Rules – Spouses and children can live in Dubai under a dependent visa, but they cannot work unless they obtain a work permit.
• Emirates ID – Once approved, each family member must obtain an Emirates ID, essential for daily activities like banking, rental agreements, and accessing public services.
• Visa Renewal – Family visas must be renewed before expiration, and the renewal process follows similar steps as the initial application.

Final Steps for Obtaining a Family Visa Through Company Formation

Once your company formation is complete, securing a family visa for Dubai is a straightforward process. The residence visa allows your family members to live, work, and study in the UAE, provided you meet the sponsorship requirements. It’s important to ensure that you meet the minimum salary requirements set by the UAE authorities. If the sponsor's visa expires or is canceled, the family visas become invalid, although there is a 30-day grace period for renewal.

You’ll need to submit the required documents such as your passport, marriage certificate, and birth certificates for children. Additionally, your family members will undergo a medical fitness test, and proof of basic health insurance will be required as part of the visa application process.

Once your family visa application is approved, your family will receive their Emirates ID and can settle into their new life in Dubai. Keep in mind that the visa cost can vary depending on the number of dependents and other factors like medical insurance. The family visa is typically valid for one to three years and will need to be renewed before it expires.

If your sponsor’s visa expires or you are planning to move to another emirate like Abu Dhabi, you may need to apply for an entry permit to ensure your family’s residency remains valid.

For those wishing to secure a dependent visa, Dubai offers several options depending on the family visa type. This allows spouses and children to join you in Dubai and live under the residence permit. It’s worth noting that the UAE government prioritizes medical insurance coverage for all family members as part of their visa application, ensuring that your loved ones will be covered for health services in the UAE.

By following these steps and ensuring all documents are in order, you can quickly obtain a family visa for your loved ones and enjoy the benefits of life in Dubai.

If you need assistance with company formation or securing a UAE residence visa, feel free to contact our team for expert guidance on making the process as seamless as possible.