The United Arab Emirates’ Federal Authority For Identity & Citizenship has granted ‘Golden Card’ permanent residency to the first batch of 2500 scientists, researchers and doctors. “The UAE will always be open to scientists, investors and entrepreneurs,” said His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in a tweet.

The UAE Government granted the Permanent Golden Residency to a number of scientists and specialists in line with its position as an incubator for talents and skills. #uaegov pic.twitter.com/RbvhkQ30p6

— UAEGov (@uaegov) November 12, 2019

“As part of the directives of Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Federal Authority For Identity & Citizenship has granted the Permanent Golden Residency to a number of scientists and specialists in line with its position as an incubator for talents and skills,” an official statement said.

Sheikh Mohammed welcomed the scientists and praised their efforts in serving the humanity, and serving the country.

We celebrated the first batch of 2,500 scientists, researchers and doctors who have been granted the ‘Golden Card’ permanent residency. We welcome them among us. The UAE will always be open to scientists, investors and entrepreneurs. pic.twitter.com/k5o9uEWILV

— HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) November 12, 2019

The Permanent Golden Residency was granted during a special reception, held in Abu Dhabi, in the presence of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, along with scientists and their families. The reception was also attended by Crown Prince of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Lieutenant-General H.H. Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan; and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, along with senior officials and dignitaries.

It was in May this year that the UAE announced its plan to offer long-term residence permits for expats under its ‘Golden Card’ system.