The UAE Golden Visa program, launched in 2019, continues to draw world-class talent and household names from every industry. Designed to offer five- to ten-year renewable residency to investors, entrepreneurs, innovators, researchers, and sports stars, the program has welcomed thousands of recipients — including a growing list of international celebrities who now consider the UAE their second home.
Cristiano Ronaldo: The Golden Visa's Most Famous Face
One of the earliest and most prominent UAE Golden Visa celebrities is Portuguese football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, who received his visa in February 2020. Ronaldo is a frequent visitor to Dubai, where he often spends leisure time with his family. He is known to be a close friend of Dubai Crown Prince HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and has posted photos with the Crown Prince on his social media accounts.
Celebrity Chef Izu Ani
Celebrity chef Izu Ani — the culinary mind behind some of the UAE's finest restaurants, including Gaia, Alaya, and Carine — was granted his Golden Visa in 2021. The British-Nigerian chef has long been a pillar of the UAE's luxury dining scene.
Giorgio Armani: Fashion Royalty in Dubai
Global fashion icon Giorgio Armani received the UAE Golden Visa in 2021. Armani, who opened the exclusive Armani Hotel inside the Burj Khalifa, has been part of Dubai's luxury landscape for years and was a fitting recipient given his decades-long ties to the emirate.
Bollywood Stars and the UAE Golden Visa
Bollywood has a strong presence among UAE Golden Visa holders. In 2021, veteran actor Sanjay Dutt was awarded the visa and publicly pledged his support for the UAE. He joins a prestigious cohort of Indian film industry names who have embraced long-term residency in the Emirates.
Influencers and Entrepreneurs
The program also recognizes digital creators and business leaders. Palestinian-Canadian entrepreneur and influencer Ola Farahat received her Golden Visa in March 2022. That same month, Ameni Esseibi — the first curve model from the Middle East — celebrated her own Golden Visa, marking a milestone for inclusive representation in the region.
Egyptian Pop Star Mohamed Ramadan
Egyptian music star Mohamed Ramadan received the UAE Golden Visa in 2020. Since then, he has been an active presence in the UAE entertainment scene, regularly filming music videos and performing in Dubai.
Lebanese Singer Elissa Joins the List
In October 2024, celebrated Lebanese pop singer Elissa was added to the roster of UAE Golden Visa celebrities, further enriching the country's cultural fabric.
Why Global Talent Chooses the UAE
These high-profile recipients reflect the UAE's growing appeal as a global hub for talent, creativity, and innovation. The Golden Visa offers long-term stability, world-class infrastructure, and access to one of the most dynamic economies in the world — making it an increasingly attractive option for international stars across entertainment, sport, fashion, and beyond.
