UAE Cabinet Approves Program to Attract Remote Workers

UAE Cabinet Approves Program to Attract Remote Workers

A seagull flies pass the view of city skyline and the world tallest tower, Burj Khalifa, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Friday, Jan.29, 2021. (AP)

The federal cabinet of the United Arab Emirates approved a new system allowing professionals to reside in the Gulf state while working remotely for employers abroad, a scheme that the emirate of Dubai launched by itself in October.

Vice-President Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who is also Dubai's ruler, said in a Twitter post on Sunday that a new work visa would cover such professional workers.

He added the cabinet had also approved a multiple-entry tourist visa for all nationalities.

"We are working with clear objectives to boost our economic status globally and provide the best quality of life to our citizens and residents," he said.

Residence for foreigners, who make up a majority of the UAE's 9 million population, had thus far been mainly linked to employment inside the country, with workers sponsoring families.

Many foreign workers, needed to support demand in Dubai's real estate, services and retail sectors, left last year after firms slashed jobs.

Dubai's realty market has been re-energized by prime property sales in the past few months, with buyers taking advantage of decade-low prices, easy financing