The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development released a guide outlining which occupations and conditions allow foreign professionals working in the UAE to apply for a 10‑year Golden Visa.

Applicants must hold at least a recognised bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification and earn a minimum monthly salary of AED 30,000, roughly KSh 1.05 million.

Eligibility is limited to employees whose jobs fall under Level 1 or Level 2 categories of the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) occupational framework.

Level 1 includes managers and business executives responsible for overseeing organisations, departments or major operations, while Level 2 covers specialised professionals in fields such as science, engineering, health, education, business and management, IT, law, sociology and culture.

Workers in regulated occupations – for example physicians, pharmacists, teachers and other licensed professions – must also hold a valid practising licence issued by UAE authorities, in addition to meeting the degree and salary thresholds.

Meeting the occupational, educational and salary requirements does not guarantee approval; applicants must satisfy all conditions set by Abu Dhabi authorities before submitting a request.

The Golden Visa offers long‑term residency without reliance on a conventional employer‑sponsored permit, giving holders greater stability for career planning, family life and other long‑term activities in the UAE.

Foreign professionals, including Kenyans, are advised to review the official Abu Dhabi Golden Visa page for the full list of criteria and to confirm that their job classification, qualifications, salary and any required licence meet the latest standards before applying.