As the Dubai International Boat Show 2025 gets underway on Wednesday, February 19, the Emirate has announced a new Golden Visa scheme for yacht owners, offering a 10-year residency. This initiative follows Abu Dhabi’s December announcement of Golden Visas for superyacht owners.
The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs has already shared key details of this scheme, with more expected to be revealed during the event, running until February 23.
Key Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa for Yacht Owners
Extended Stay Flexibility: Golden Visa holders can stay outside the UAE for more than six months without losing their residency.
Long-Term Residency: The visa is valid for 10 years and is renewable.
Family Sponsorship: Immediate family members can be included in the visa benefits.
Boost for Maritime Tourism and Investment
Dubai’s decision to extend the Golden Visa to yacht owners aims to enhance maritime tourism and attract high-net-worth individuals to invest in the UAE’s thriving luxury sector.

Salient features of the UAE Golden Visa

How Much Does the Visa Cost?
As of 2023, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) set the cost of the Golden Visa at Dh1,250.
Income and Investment Requirements
To qualify for the 10-year visa, applicants must meet one of the following financial criteria:
Income: Professionals in sectors such as healthcare, media, and IT must earn at least Dh30,000 per month.
Investment: Applicants can qualify by:
Investing Dh2 million in property (no minimum upfront payment required).
Investing Dh2 million in an investment fund.
Golden Visa Renewal Process
The visa is renewable every 10 years, provided the applicant continues to meet the eligibility requirements.
With the UAE’s push to attract yacht owners through this long-term visa scheme, Dubai and Abu Dhabi are solidifying their position as premier maritime hubs, offering unparalleled luxury and investment opportunities.
(with input from Khaleej Times)

Dubai-based entrepreneur Anis Sajan, fondly known as “Mr. Cricket UAE” for his deep passion for the game, has once again showcased his generosity. In a heartwarming gesture, he has distributed free tickets to blue-collar workers, giving them the chance to experience all the action of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 live in Dubai.
Sajan has provided 60 tickets per match for four key games at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. His initiative ensures that Danube Group employees will get to watch all of India’s matches, including the highly anticipated clash against Pakistan on February 23 and the 1st semi final on March 4.
As the vice-chairman of Danube Group and a recipient of the prestigious Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Bharat Puraskar Award for his contributions to cricket, Sajan continues to make an impact both in sports and in the community.
India will kick off their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign with their opening match against Bangladesh on February 20. Three days later, they will face arch-rivals Pakistan in a highly anticipated showdown on February 23. The group stage will conclude with a match against New Zealand on March 2. If Rohit Sharma’s side tops the pool, they will compete in the first semi-final on March 4.
Meanwhile, with cricket fever at an all-time high, tickets for the much-awaited India-Pakistan match sold out within minutes when they went on sale on February 3. To meet the overwhelming demand, the International Cricket Council (ICC) arranged additional tickets for the blockbuster showdown.
This year, eight teams are competing for a grand prize of $2.24 million. The tournament’s runner-up will receive $1.12 million, while the losing semi-finalists will take home $560,000 each.

If you’re thinking of tossing your cigarette butt on the ground or leaving food wrappers behind, think again— Abu Dhabi has introduced stricter fines for littering, and repeat offenders could be paying up to Dh4,000. Here’s a quick breakdown of the new fines under the Regulation on the Preservation of Public Spaces.
What Will Littering Cost You?
Throwing cigarette butts outside bins
First time: Dh500
Second time: Dh1,000
Third time: Dh2,000

Leaving food or drink waste in public
First time: Dh500
Second time: Dh1,000
Third time: Dh2,000

Dumping trash in non-designated areas
First time: Dh1,000
Second time: Dh2,000
Third time: Dh4,000

Some Other Fines You Should Know About
Littering in parks or on beaches: Dh1,000 fine
Spray-painting unauthorized areas: Expect a hefty penalty
Authorities are urging residents and visitors to be responsible and keep Abu Dhabi clean. So, next time you’re out and about, find a trash bin – it’s cheaper than a fine.

(With Input from Khaleej Times)