dubai cultural visa

The introduction of Dubai’s Cultural Visa in 2019 by the UAE government provides an excellent opportunity for people belonging to the fields of arts and culture to stay in Dubai and advance in their careers. We have prepared this article to help you get familiarized with this visa, its perks, and the process to apply. First thing’s first:

What is Dubai’s Cultural Visa?

It is a long-term residence visa approved by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, especially for people with creative talents. This visa is issued by DCAA (Dubai Culture and Arts Authority) in collaboration with GDFRA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs). The duration of the Dubai Cultural Visa is ten years.

We have broken this article down into three segments for clarity. Let’s dig deeper.

What are the Essentials and Required Documents for Dubai’s Cultural Visa?

To apply, at least five of the following requirements should be met.

Creative Profile for Attaining Cultural Visa

The applicant must create a thorough profile of his or her career/journey. This profile is like a resume and is your introduction. This creative profile must include details like your personal details, academic credentials and contributions, field experience, and artistic projects/productions you have participated in. At a minimum, it should cover five years of your career.

Academic Credentials Required for Dubai’s Cultural Visa

As the name implies, this includes:

  1. Educational certifications (attested)
  2. Accreditations (optional)
  3. Specialized degree copy
  4. A list of courses and training completed

Awards, Recognitions, and Achievements

If the applicant has obtained or won any awards or certificates, he or she should list them with dates and accompanying details. This includes both regional and international awards.

Memberships and Affiliations

If the applicant is a member of any NGO or any cultural organization, it should be listed with the time duration.

Community Contributions

Involvement in community-held creative and cultural programs should be listed along with relevant documents. These documents serve as proof of your involvement. For every event listed, its agendas and goals should be listed along with your field of work and how you impacted and helped in achieving those goals.

Employment Type and Tenure

Your employment type and role should be listed in your application. This includes the employment as well as organizations or businesses you have worked with as a freelancer.

Financial Stability

One year bank statement with a minimal annual income of 120,000 AED should be attached with the application as proof that you are financially able to live and survive in Dubai.

Who can Apply?

Dubai Cultural Visa encompasses everyone belonging to the field of creatives and arts. This includes the sectors of art and design, culture, heritage, and performing arts.

How to Apply?

At the time of applying, you should have the following documents ready:

  • A copy of Emirates ID
  • A copy of the passport
  • A copy of the residence visa
  • Applicant’s resume
  • Home address
  • Contact information

Compile these documents and submit your application to culturalvisa@dubaiculture.ae. After applying, you will be notified via email or phone about the status of your application (approved or rejected).

When the application is approved, you will receive an accreditation permit. You will need to visit the accredited office. Your residence visa will be issued from there.

A Little Bit More Information to Ponder

  • The permit issue is not the final approval. It is just a prerequisite to getting approvals from other authorities.
  • Dubai Culture has the right to amend or remove your information.
  • It is a long-term residence visa of ten years.
  • Any person belonging to intellectual fields like literature, history, etc can apply.
  • You can contact Dubai Culture at +971 451 550 00 or email at info@dubaiculture.ae

This concludes our article on Dubai Cultural Visa. It is a great opportunity for talented persons around the globe to get recognition worldwide.

If you are looking for a guide about residency visas in UAE, we have prepared an article for that too. Do let us know in the comment section if you have any questions.