Authorities have launched services to help doctors living in the UAE to obtain long-term residency.
The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) and the Ministry of Health and Prevention have started to streamline the application procedure, state news agency Wam reported on Monday.
The golden visa – a long-term residency initiative launched by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai – recognises experts in various fields who play a pivotal role in supporting the nation’s progress. It also attracts skilled workers to the UAE.
Last month, doctors on the front line of the pandemic were encouraged to apply for golden visas in recognition of their contribution towards health care in the country.
Doctors in the UAE qualify for the golden visa, which provides long-term residency in the country, as well as scientists and doctorate holders.
All doctors licensed by the country’s health regulatory bodies can apply for the golden visa from now until September at smartservices.ica.gov.ae. Doctors licensed to practise in Dubai can apply at smart.gdrfad.gov.ae.
Maj Gen Suhail Al Khaili, acting director general of the ICA, said the decision to offer golden visas to all non-Emirati doctors based in the UAE paid tribute to their efforts in containing Covid-19, Wam reported.
Dr Mohammad Al Olama, undersecretary of the Ministry of Health and Prevention and chairman of the Emirates Health Services Establishment, said the initiative would develop medical tourism and the domestic health sector.
