Celebrities with UAE Golden Visas

From Cristiano Ronaldo to Bollywood stars and world-famous chefs — here are the big names with Golden Visas

Since its launch in 2019, the UAE Golden Visa has been the go-to long-term residency program, offering 5- or 10-year stays to eligible investors, entrepreneurs, creatives, scientists, and sports stars across diverse fields.

Among the thousands granted this prestigious residency are some global icons—think Cristiano Ronaldo, Sanjay Dutt, plus renowned chefs and artists who’ve made the UAE their home.

Whether they’re based here full-time or jetting in for work, these celebs are part of the expanding global crew putting down roots in the Emirates. Check out some of the most recognizable Golden Visa holders.

Christiano Ronaldo

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Cristiano Ronaldo (@cristiano)

Football legend Cristiano Ronaldo, a regular in the UAE, received his Golden Visa in 2020. Known for his close friendship with Dubai’s Crown Prince, HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, he’s often seen enjoying the city with his family.

Chef Izu Ani

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Chef Izu (@chefizu)

Renowned British-Nigerian chef Izu Ani—famed for hit restaurants like Gaia, Alaya, and Carine—was awarded his Golden Visa in 2021.

Giorgio Armani

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Armani Hotel Dubai (@armanihoteldxb)

In 2021, legendary fashion designer Giorgio Armani—who launched the ultra-luxurious Armani Hotel in the Burj Khalifa back in 2011—was granted the Golden Visa.

Ola Farahat

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Ola (@olafarahat)

Palestinian-Canadian influencer and entrepreneur Ola Farahat was granted the Golden Visa in March 2022, recognizing her impact in the region’s fashion and digital space.

Ameni Esseibi

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Ameni Esseibi ~ أماني السايبي (@ameniesseibi)

Ameni Esseibi, the Middle East’s first curve model and influential voice in fashion, announced receiving her Golden Visa on Instagram in January 2022.

Elissa

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Elissa (@elissazkh)

Lebanese music icon Elissa was awarded the Golden Visa in October 2024, joining the list of celebrated regional artists recognized by the UAE.

Mohamed Ramadan

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Mohamed Ramadan (@mr1)

Egyptian singer Mohamed Hamaki received his Golden Visa in 2020. A frequent visitor to the UAE, he’s also filmed two of his music videos right here.

Sanjay Dutt

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Sanjay Dutt (@duttsanjay)

The popular Bollywood actor received the golden visa in 2021. He shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), “I vow to help the country whenever they are in need since that’s what our true purpose as humans is, to help each other grow.”