UAE Honors 1,400 Expat Nurses with Golden Visas. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has granted Golden Visas to over 1,400 expatriate nurses, including many from the Malayalee community. This gesture, initiated under the directive of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, serves as a token of gratitude for their relentless service in the healthcare sector.
UAE Golden Visas
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa introduced to attract and retain global talent. It allows foreign nationals to live, work, or study in the UAE while enjoying exclusive benefits. Key features include:
- Extended Residency: Valid for 5 or 10 years and renewable.
- No Need for a Sponsor: Holders can reside in the UAE without a national sponsor.
- Family Inclusion: Ability to sponsor family members, including spouses and children of all ages.
- Business Ownership: Full ownership of businesses on the UAE mainland.
- Multiple Entries: An entry visa for six months with multiple entries to proceed with residence issuance.
This initiative aligns with the UAE’s vision to be a global hub for talent and innovation, offering stability and growth opportunities to professionals across various sectors.
Celebrating the Contributions of Expat Nurses
The recent awarding of Golden Visas to over 1,400 nurses is a testament to the UAE’s appreciation for the critical role healthcare workers play. These professionals, many of whom have dedicated over 15 years to the field, have been pivotal in delivering quality healthcare services.
Carmina Aguilar, a senior staff nurse at Latifa Hospital, shared her sentiments: “It feels like a dream.” Having arrived in Dubai in 1998, she has been caring for newborns in the NICU for the past 27 years. Her journey reflects the resilience and commitment of many expatriate nurses who have made the UAE their home.
Nancy Augustine, another esteemed nurse at Latifa Hospital, expressed her pride: “This is a gift from the UAE for 25 years of service.” Her experiences, from aiding critically ill patients to mentoring new nurses, highlight the profound impact these professionals have on the community.
Malayalee Community’s Integral Role
The Malayalee community, originating from the Indian state of Kerala, has been an integral part of the UAE’s expatriate population. Their contributions span various sectors, with a significant presence in healthcare. The recognition of Malayalee nurses through the Golden Visa underscores their dedication and the deep-rooted ties between the UAE and the Indian expatriate community.
Expanding the Golden Visa Program
In line with its commitment to attract global talent, the UAE has expanded the Golden Visa program to include new categories:
- Healthcare Professionals: Recognizing the vital role of nurses and doctors.
- Educators: Acknowledging the importance of teachers in shaping future generations.
- Digital Creators and E-sports Experts: Embracing the digital age and its influencers.
- Luxury Yacht Owners: Catering to high-net-worth individuals contributing to the economy.
This expansion reflects the UAE’s adaptive approach to global trends and its ambition to be at the forefront of innovation and excellence.
Conclusion
The UAE’s decision to grant Golden Visas to over 1,400 expatriate nurses is more than just a policy move; it’s a heartfelt acknowledgment of their invaluable service. For the Malayalee community and other expatriates, this recognition reinforces the UAE’s reputation as a nation that values dedication, hard work, and community contribution.
