Dubai has criteria for its ’golden visa’ for teachers in the private sector. Interested candidates could apply for the programme from October 15, according to Khaleej Times.

This initiative, revealed on October 5, aims to recognise teachers who have shown “excellence, innovation, and a strong commitment to shaping the future of education in the emirate.”

It will be available to educators working in early childhood centres, private schools, and international higher education institutions ((HEIs).

Such candidates must meet the following criteria

• Demonstrate outstanding academic accomplishments and innovative contributions to the field of education.
• Have a track record of enhancing the quality of education at their respective institutions and receiving positive recognition from the broader educational community.
• Successful applicants must show measurable contributions to improving student outcomes, including academic progress and the attainment of recognised qualifications.

School principals and leaders, early childhood centre (ECC) managers, academic heads of higher education institutions, teachers (from schools and ECCs), full-time faculty and senior administrative leaders at higher education institutions can apply for the programme.

Candidates need to hold an advanced degree—such as a PhD, professional doctorate, or master’s degree—or possess relevant professional qualifications like a CPA or professional fellowships.

For principals, additional criteria include achieving a rating of “Good” or better in the Dubai Schools Inspections Bureau (DSIB) annual evaluations and maintaining or improving this rating over time.

Higher education educators must also demonstrate their research contributions, providing evidence of published work in reputable journals, research grants, collaborations, consultative reports, or creative exhibitions.

Furthermore, applicants must show clear evidence of improved student outcomes, including academic progress and graduation rates. Principals should present positive feedback from students, parents, staff, and other stakeholders regarding their leadership and the overall school environment.

Educators must also demonstrate measurable improvements in supporting key student groups and receive a formal nomination from the school’s board of governors. This nomination should highlight “exceptional leadership and provide specific reasons for the nomination.”

Furthermore, applicants are expected to show positive contributions to the wider community through educational projects, partnerships, or social initiatives.

In terms of professional excellence, teachers must secure a nomination from their principal, along with approval and endorsement from the school’s board of governors.

They are also required to demonstrate student success in both internal and external examinations and assessments. Positive feedback from students, parents, and school leadership regarding the educator’s performance is essential.

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How to apply

Schools, early childhood centres, and higher education institutions in Dubai can nominate eligible staff members who meet the established criteria for the Golden Visa program.

Candidates must provide several key documents, including:

• Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) school rating reports (for principals)
• Award certificates
• Survey results and testimonials from students and parents
• Staff testimonials (for principals, ECC managers, and academic heads)
• Evidence of community involvement
• Documentation demonstrating improved student outcomes
• Recommendation and nomination letters from the board of governors

Applications will be assessed by a committee, which will forward its recommendations to the KHDA. It will then review the applications and coordinate with relevant authorities. Educators who meet the eligibility criteria will be notified of the successful outcome of their applications.