In a significant development for the UAE’s education sector, the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) announced that a total of 16 456 Golden Visas have been granted. This initiative is aimed at supporting exceptional students, educational specialists, and outstanding university graduates from both local and international institutions.

Among the recipients, top-performing high school students constitute the largest group, with 10 710 Golden Residency holders. Following them are 5 246 graduates from accredited universities within the UAE, 337 educational specialists, 147 outstanding graduates from accredited universities abroad, and 16 elite scholars in educational fields.

Maj-Gen Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, the ICP director general, made this announcement on Emirati Education Day, which is celebrated on February 28. He emphasized that the UAE is recognized as one of the leading countries in education and highlighted the Emirati educational strategy’s goal to cultivate knowledgeable and skilled national cadres.

Al Khaili noted that the ICP is committed to supporting the directives of the country’s leadership in the educational field. He explained that granting Golden Residency to exceptional individuals in education is part of the Authority’s innovative initiatives to bolster the educational strategy and contribute to the UAE’s national economy.

Furthermore, he mentioned that this initiative serves as a motivation for students, educators, and their families to strive for excellence and stability within the UAE.