Dubai's 10-year Gaming Visa: Eligibility, process, benefits, all you need to know

TL;DR

• Dubai offers a 10-year Golden Visa for gaming professionals, including developers, creators, and esports experts.
• The visa is part of the Dubai Program for Gaming 2033, aimed at making Dubai a global gaming hub.
• Applications require proof of experience, relevant documents, and approval from Dubai Culture .

Dubai is well-known for its ambitious projects and bold economic plans. Now, it’s turning its focus to gaming, a fast-growing, creative industry worldwide. Through the Dubai Program for Gaming 2033 (DPG 2033), the city aims to build a strong gaming ecosystem by attracting top talent, creating jobs, and supporting innovation.

A key part of this effort is the 10-year gaming visa designed to give professionals in gaming a long-term path to live and work in Dubai. The Gaming Visa was launched in May 2024 as part of the Dubai Program for Gaming 2033. This visa targets the people behind the games, developers, designers, animators, content creators, and esports pros, not just casual players or streamers.

If you work in the gaming industry and want to explore new opportunities, Dubai is opening the door with this visa.

What Is the Dubai Gaming Visa?
The Dubai Gaming Visa is a 10-year residency permit offered under the “Culture and Arts” category. It gives professionals in the gaming field the ability to live and work in Dubai without the need for frequent renewals.

Instead of targeting casual players, this visa is aimed at the people who build the industry, developers, artists, producers, esports professionals, and content creators with a clear professional background.

Here’s what the visa offers:

• Long-term stability to work and live in Dubai
• Access to a growing gaming ecosystem and advanced facilities
• A tax-free income environment to help you keep more of your earnings
• Opportunities to connect with global gaming professionals and companies

This isn’t just a residency visa, it’s part of a broader effort to position Dubai as a serious force in the global gaming space.

Who Is Eligible?

The visa is aimed at professionals who contribute directly to the gaming industry. This includes, but isn’t limited to:

• Game developers and designers
• Animators and illustrators
• Producers and project managers
• Content creators with a professional background
• Esports professionals with verified achievements

Basic eligibility criteria:

• Age: Must be at least 25 years old
• Experience: Proven professional background in gaming
• Documentation: Passport copy, educational certificates, professional CV, proof of contributions or employment

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for the Dubai Gaming Visa involves two main stages: first, getting accredited by Dubai Culture, and second, applying for the visa itself.

Step 1: Get the Creative and Talented Accreditation Certificate
Start by registering on the official site: dubaigaming.gov.ae/gaming-residency.
Once you create your profile, you’ll be asked to fill in the application form and upload a few key documents:

• A copy of your passport
• Your CV (focused on gaming or creative roles)
• Educational qualifications
• Proof of your work, such as a portfolio, community contributions, or social media links
• Residence permit and Emirates ID , if you already have them

After submitting your application, Dubai Culture will review it. If you meet the criteria, they’ll issue a Creative and Talented Accreditation Certificate.

Step 2: Apply for the Visa
With the certificate in hand, you can apply for the 10-year visa through the UAE immigration authorities. Final approval depends on meeting federal requirements, so this step may involve additional checks or documents.
What Are the Benefits?
Dubai’s 10-year Gaming Visa is more than just a long stay, it’s an invitation to be part of a growing tech and creative scene. Here's what it gives you:

• 10 years of residency: Live and work in Dubai without frequent renewals
• Career growth: Access a growing gaming industry with high-paying opportunities
• Tax advantages: Dubai has no personal income tax
• Networking: Connect with global industry leaders and professionals
• Facilities: Use of Dubai’s advanced gaming infrastructure and technology
• Lifestyle: Enjoy Dubai’s vibrant culture and strategic location

About the Dubai Program for Gaming 2033 (DPG 2033)

DPG 2033 is a government initiative aimed at growing Dubai’s gaming industry. It focuses on attracting skilled professionals from around the world, partly through programs like the gaming visa. The program also supports local talent by offering training and hosting events.

To help new businesses and startups, it provides funding and mentorship. Dubai is also promoting esports by organizing tournaments and leagues. There’s a strong push to encourage research and develop new gaming technologies too.

The goal is to add about AED 3.6 billion (around $1 billion) to Dubai’s economy and create 30,000 jobs by 2033.

NOTE: Getting the accreditation certificate from Dubai Culture is only the first step, it’s a conditional approval, not a final visa. You’ll still need to complete additional procedures with other government authorities to get the actual visa. Also, Dubai Culture has the right to reject applications without giving a reason. And importantly, only individuals can apply; companies or service centers can’t submit applications on someone else’s behalf.


FAQs

• Q1: Can casual gamers or hobby streamers apply?

No. The visa is for professionals who have a verified career or significant contributions in gaming.

• Q2: Can I apply if I don’t live in Dubai yet?

Yes. International applicants can apply and move after approval.

• Q3: Are there fees involved in the application?

The accreditation application doesn’t list fees publicly, but visa processing may involve charges.