The UAE has rolled out a major update to its Golden Visa programme, introducing expanded emergency support services for visa holders stranded abroad, particularly amid rising regional tensions linked to the US-Israel Iran conflict.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) and the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA), authorities have facilitated the return of around 500 Golden Visa holders and residents through coordinated air and land operations, working closely with UAE diplomatic missions worldwide.
The move builds on a key decision taken in October 2025, when the UAE expanded its crisis response services to include Golden Visa holders—benefits that were previously limited to Emirati nationals. The initiative highlights the country’s commitment to providing enhanced protection and support to long-term residents.
Key services for Golden Visa holders
Under the updated framework, Golden Visa holders can now access a range of emergency services designed to assist them during crises abroad:
- Emergency electronic return document: Individuals who lose or damage their passports overseas can apply for a temporary travel document to return to the UAE.
- 24/7 MoFA hotline: A dedicated helpline (+971 2 493 1133) is available round the clock for urgent assistance and inquiries.
- Crisis and evacuation support: UAE missions abroad will include Golden Visa holders in evacuation plans during emergencies and disasters.
These services may also extend to immediate family members, including spouses and children, provided they are registered as dependents with valid UAE residence permits.
Emergency return document details
The electronic return document offers a crucial lifeline for stranded residents. It allows Golden Visa holders and dependent children under 18, to travel back to the UAE if their passport is lost or damaged.
Applicants must hold a valid Golden Visa and residence permit. The document is issued for single-use only, remains valid for seven days, and can only be used for direct travel back to the UAE. It cannot be used for transit or travel to other countries.
Required documents
To apply, individuals must provide:
- Copy of the lost or damaged passport
- Police report for the lost/damaged passport
- Recent passport-size photograph (white background)
- Copy of return ticket to the UAE
Authorities have emphasized that once back in the UAE, individuals must promptly obtain a new passport in coordination with their respective embassy or consulate, as the emergency document is strictly a one-way travel permit.
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