In a significant move to promote humanitarian work and charitable giving, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced the introduction of a Golden Visa for Waqf donors. This initiative follows a new cooperation agreement signed between the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA-Dubai) and the Endowments and Minors Affairs Foundation (Awqaf Dubai) on October 17, 2025. Under this agreement, Awqaf Dubai will nominate eligible donors—both residents and non-residents—who meet the criteria outlined in Cabinet Resolution No. (65) of 2022 for the Golden Visa category of ‘financial supporters of humanitarian work.’ The GDRFA-Dubai will then issue residency permits based on these nominations. A joint committee will also be established to oversee the implementation and assess the outcomes of this initiative, ensuring it aligns with the intended social objectives. Lt-Gen Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA-Dubai, emphasized that this agreement represents a progressive model of governmental integration, empowering donors to contribute to community development through impactful initiatives that promote the values of giving and sustainability. Awqaf Dubai, which oversees the regulation, investment, and management of endowments, will utilize the generated revenues for sustainable Sharia-compliant projects across the UAE. Ali Mohammed Al Mutawa, Secretary-General of Awqaf Dubai, highlighted that granting Golden Visas to financial supporters of humanitarian work reflects Dubai’s vision of positioning endowment work as a key partner in sustainable development, recognizing their role in fostering solidarity and social responsibility. This initiative underscores Dubai’s commitment to becoming a global hub for tolerance and humanitarian giving, reinforcing its status as a sustainable and human-centered city.