Under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, more than 200 exceptional educators across Dubai have been granted the prestigious Golden Visa.
The initiative, first announced on World Teachers’ Day, 5 October, last year, highlights the vital role of teachers in shaping future generations. Recipients include educators working in schools, universities and early childhood centres. Selection was based on qualifications, achievements, community impact and recognition from students and parents, with no bias towards nationality, gender or experience.
Out of 435 applications in the first round, 223 educators were awarded Golden Visas, granting them long-term residency. Among them, 157 were awarded to those working in schools, sixty to those working in universities, and six to those working in early childhood centres.
Highlighting the importance of this gesture, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan said, "Teachers and educators are the ones who light the way forward. They inspire, guide and give our children the skills and confidence to succeed. On World Teachers’ Day, we recognise their dedication and affirm that supporting them is the best investment we can make in the future of Dubai. Their impact goes beyond classrooms, building the character of our society and strengthening Dubai’s global stature".
Applications for the next round are open from 15 October to 15 December, giving educators another opportunity to be part of this recognition. For more information about the eligibility criteria and application process, see Knowledge and Human Development Authority's guide.