• 20 Aug, 2025

Dubai Launches 10-Year Golden Visa for Gaming Professionals Under 'Gaming 2033' Vision

Dubai Launches 10-Year Golden Visa for Gaming Professionals Under 'Gaming 2033' Vision

Dubai has launched a 10-year Golden Visa for gaming professionals under its Gaming 2033 vision. Targeting developers, esports players, and creators, the initiative aims to boost Dubai’s global gaming presence, create 30,000 jobs, and build a $1 billion industry by 2033.

In a game-changing move for the global gaming industry, Dubai has officially introduced a 10-year Golden Visa dedicated to professionals in the gaming sector. The new visa is part of the emirate’s bold Dubai Program for Gaming 2033 (DPG 2033), which aims to transform the city into a world-leading hub for gaming and esports.

Spearheaded by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, this initiative is designed to attract top-tier gaming talent — from game developers and designers to esports athletes and content creators. The goal? To create over 30,000 gaming-related jobs and contribute $1 billion to Dubai’s digital economy within the next decade.


 A Strategic Step Towards Becoming a Global Gaming Capital

With global gaming revenues projected to exceed $250 billion by 2030, Dubai is strategically positioning itself to capture a significant share of this booming industry. The launch of the Gaming Golden Visa is a cornerstone of this strategy, offering international and UAE-based professionals a unique opportunity to live and work in one of the world’s most innovative cities.

Under the DPG 2033 roadmap, the city will provide advanced infrastructure, support platforms, and community-building initiatives to nurture creativity, innovation, and collaboration within the gaming ecosystem.


Who Can Apply for the Dubai Gaming Visa?

The visa targets experienced individuals who have made a notable impact in the gaming or digital entertainment industry. This includes:

  • Game developers and programmers
  • Game designers and UI/UX experts
  • Esports players and tournament organizers
  • Content creators and streamers
  • Gaming entrepreneurs and studio founders

To be eligible, applicants must:

  • Be at least 25 years old
  • Hold proven experience in the gaming field
  • Demonstrate a track record of creative contributions or relevant industry achievements

 Application Process: Step-by-Step

  1. Apply for a Creative & Talented Accreditation Certificate
    Begin by submitting an application through the official Dubai Culture Gaming Visa Portal.
  2.  Apply Here: https://www.dubaiculture.gov.ae/en/creativity-and-talent/gaming
  3. Golden Visa Submission
    Once accredited, proceed to apply for the 10-year Golden Visa via designated Dubai government channels.
  4. Required Documents Include:
  • A valid passport (and UAE residence visa if applicable)
  • A CV or professional portfolio
  • A personal cover letter
  • Proof of projects, awards, or industry impact
  • Education/training certificates related to game design or development

Note: Only individuals may apply. Third-party agents or service providers are not authorized to submit applications on behalf of others.


 Key Benefits of the 10-Year Gaming Visa

  • Long-Term Residency: Live and work in Dubai for 10 years, with renewal options
  • Industry Recognition: Government-backed validation of your creative talent
  • Business and Networking Opportunities: Engage with Dubai’s tech ecosystem and gaming accelerators
  • Tax-Free Earnings: Enjoy Dubai’s zero-income tax benefits
  • Access to World-Class Facilities: From esports venues to innovation hubs and collaborative workspaces

The Bigger Picture: What Is Dubai’s Gaming 2033 Program?

The Dubai Program for Gaming 2033 is a long-term economic strategy launched to establish the emirate as a global hub for game development, esports, and content creation. It is supported by the Dubai Future Foundation and Dubai Culture, with goals including:

  • Building a sustainable gaming ecosystem
  • Attracting international game studios to set up in Dubai
  • Supporting homegrown game IPs and development teams
  • Offering training, mentorship, and startup support
  • Hosting large-scale international gaming events

To date, more than 350 companies have joined Dubai’s gaming scene, contributing to a growing local talent base and infrastructure.


The Dubai Gaming Golden Visa is more than a residency option — it’s an invitation to be part of a new digital frontier. Whether you're an experienced game designer, esports champion, or visionary content creator, this visa opens doors to opportunity, recognition, and innovation in one of the world’s most exciting cities.

 

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