Dubai: Individuals specializing in art and design, heritage, culture, or the performing arts may apply for a long-term Cultural Visa in Dubai.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, issued the first long-term cultural visa in 2019 to position Dubai as a cultural center, an incubator for innovation, and a thriving center of talent.
A long-term cultural visa is given to creative talents with talents in literature, arts, heritage, history, and cognitive studies, and creative industries.
Applicants’ requirements
According to Dubai Culture, an applicant’s creative profile must include a distinctive artistic production in the arts that addresses a personal aspect and has an impact on the community. As part of the profile, the applicant should also showcase their artistic journey, which should last at least five years, as well as their participation in art galleries, auctions, exhibitions, ceremonies, museums, and other events.
Additionally, their academic contributions and activities that have had an impact on younger generations and provided inspiration must be highlighted.
Documents needed
1. Creative portfolio
The following information should be included in the portfolio:
– Creative profile (name, specialization, nationality)
- Experiences
- Creative performances or contributions (including achievements, contributions, or participation).
2. List of awards and recognitions
The recognitions from renowned parties and organizations (including medals, awards, and certificates of appreciation) must be clearly listed as part of the creative journey. An award must be accompanied by a description of its purpose, when it was granted, and who granted it. Provide all details of achievements and awards received at regional or international levels.
3. Details of community contributions
Include a detailed description of the applicant’s involvement in community programs that support creative and cultural activities as well as a description of how the applicant’s creative work supports the goals and agenda of the respective programs. List of contributions to the community (as well as volunteer work), a brief description of fields, number of hours of service, impact on the community.
4. Academic credentials
Applicants must submit an attestation of their education certificates, as well as any accreditations or training records they have obtained.
5. Memberships and affiliations
Applicants are required to list any memberships obtained from nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) or creative organizations.
6. Employment type
Applicant’s practiced hours should be listed, regardless of whether they carried out work as a full- or part-time employee, a freelancer, or an independent contractor. Applicants must also mention any organizations they worked with or supported.
7. Income sustainability/financial stability
It would also be necessary to provide sources of income detailing the actual methods of generating income. This includes:
- A one-year bank statement
- A minimum annual income of Dh120,000 is required
Criteria and conditions – cultural and creative companies
In case the applicant is applying on behalf of their organization, they will need to provide the following information:
Company profile
Brief description of the business (proof of interest in cultural and creative fields).
- Trade license.
- Years of operation.
- Services scope.
- Details about the customer base.
- Achievements of the company and its impact on the community.
Applicant portfolio
According to the details provided earlier, the applicant may also need to submit an application portfolio.
Terms and conditions
On the Dubai Culture website, participants can also learn about the terms and conditions for the Cultural Visa. These include:
The management of Dubai Culture reserves the right to alter or remove any of the terms stipulated in this document, or to add to them, at any time as it deems appropriate.
It is important to note that Dubai Culture approval is not the final approval; instead, it is a conditional approval necessary to obtain approvals from the local and/or federal authorities involved in the visa processing.
How to apply for the visa
1. In order to request a Cultural Visa, the applicant will need to send an email to culturalvisa@dubaiculture.ae
Provide the following documents:
- Passport and visa copies.
- A copy of the Emirates ID card.
- The resume.
- Contact numbers.
- Address and place of residence.
2. Applicants are notified of their approvals either via email or telephone.
3. The applicant will receive an accreditation permit.
4. To obtain a long-term residence visa, applicants must visit an accredited office.