While celebrating World Teachers’ Day on October, 05th, 2024, the UAE government has taken a significant step to recognize exceptional educators within the private education sector with a Golden Visa.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, announced on Saturday, October 5th, 2024, that outstanding teachers will be eligible for Golden Visas, allowing them to contribute to the emirate’s educational landscape without the need for a local sponsor. He also said it would recognize the crucial role teachers played in “shaping young minds” and “nurturing future generations.” The Golden Visa provides a 10-year residency permit and recognizes outstanding educators in private early childhood centers, schools, and higher education institutions. Applications will be available on October 15th, 2024 according to the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). To be eligible, teachers must demonstrate extraordinary academic achievements and innovative contributions to education, have a proven track record of enhancing educational quality, and make significant impacts on student outcomes.
Shiny Davison, principal at the Indian Academy in Dubai, said she would apply for a golden visa. “It motivates teachers,” she said. “Teaching is not a very highly paid job so, this does come as a motivation and inspiration for teachers. I could see the buzz in my school with everybody talking about this new gesture. Definitely, this adds value.”
Following KHDA guidelines, Dubai schools have begun to form an internal committee to review the conditions for teachers’ Golden Visa applications. Schools have also been asked to ensure that they meet the criteria before submitting individual applications to KHDA using the e-Services system. Richard John Drew, Principal, Jumeira Baccalaureate School said, “Taaleem has supported its schools with an explanation of the ‘Criteria’ so that staff can review this and then decide about an application. Any staff member who applies must send the information to the Principal who will have the final say on the application.” He also said that “Staff have been sent an FAQ sheet which helps them to understand if they have the necessary requirements for a successful application. The FAQs are clear and concise and feedback from staff has been that the FAQs have been very helpful.” KHDA has also uploaded official FAQs and eligibility criteria policy documents on their website.
Lisa Johnson, principal at the American Academy for Girls said: “The introduction of the golden visa in Dubai is a clear statement from this city that it values education and acknowledges the hard work and achievement of educators.”
School administrators also stated that there is a “exciting buzz” in the education sector since institutions released the KHDA information. Amity School Dubai Principal Sangita Chima said: “We’ve already received several inquiries, and it’s clear that many are eager to learn more about the nomination process and the opportunities the Golden Visa presents. The enthusiasm is truly inspiring.”
The new Golden Visa initiative is a crucial step in bolstering Dubai’s education system, ensuring that it attracts and retains the highest quality educators, while also providing them with the long-term security and recognition they deserve.
