Are you an aspiring gamer eager to elevate your career? If so, Dubai’s vibrant e-sports scene might just be your next big step. The emirate is currently offering a unique opportunity tailored specifically for talented individuals in the gaming industry through the Dubai Programme for Gaming 2033 (DPG33).
This initiative, launched by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, crowns an era of growth in the e-sports field and grants the chance to secure a coveted 10-year Golden Residency Visa. Designed to boost Dubai’s creative economy, the visa opens up pathways for gamers to live, work, and fully engage in this dynamic environment.
What is the Golden Residency Visa?
The Golden Residency Visa allows talented professionals to reside in Dubai for a decade, providing the security to flourish in their careers without the hindrance of constant visa renewals. This initiative places a spotlight on the importance of the culture and arts sectors in Dubai, which includes gaming as a significant part.
Who is Eligible?
To qualify for the Dubai Gaming Visa, applicants must first secure an accreditation certificate from Dubai Culture. This requirement highlights the importance of gamified creative contributions to the emirate. However, there are specific conditions you must meet before applying:
- Applicants must be at least 25 years old.
- Application processes can be rejected at the discretion of Dubai Culture without a provided reason.
- Applications must be submitted in person, and submissions from companies or service centres are not accepted.
Documents Required for Application
To set the wheels in motion, you’ll need to gather several documents. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare:
- A copy of your passport, with any applicable residence permits and ID cards.
- Your professional CV detailing your experience.
- A portfolio showcasing your highlights and key projects from the gaming industry over the past five years.
- A personalized cover letter expressing your intent and qualifications.
Steps to Apply for the Accreditation Certificate
Applying for your accreditation certificate is the first crucial step in your journey. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process:
1. Fill Out the Gaming Visa Request Form
Start by visiting the official DPG33 website at dubaigaming.gov.ae. Here you’ll need to fill out the form with your personal information:
- Full name
- Gender
- Place of residence and nationality
- Passport number along with issue and expiry dates
- Emirate of residency (or select your country if not living in the UAE)
- Emirates ID (if available)
- Contact information, including mobile number and email address
- Education level and current job details.
- Your selected cultural and creative field, focusing on gaming sub-categories such as game design or development.
2. Provide Career Information
Your application should also include details about your career in the gaming industry. This may involve:
- Years of experience in the industry
- Number of artistic works and creative participations
- Relevant academic certifications and memberships.
- Documenting any intellectual dissemination of your work, both locally and internationally.
3. Upload Required Documents
A crucial segment of your application is the compilation of necessary documents, including:
- Your passport copy
- Your portfolio
- Your resume and cover letter
- Employment letters and academic certificates
- Evidence of local and international memberships.
4. Review and Submit
Once everything is filled out and uploaded, review your application for accuracy. After a thorough verification, click ‘Submit.’ You’ll receive an email notification regarding the status of your application.
After successfully obtaining your accreditation certificate from Dubai Culture, you’ll proceed with applying for the Golden Visa, solidifying your place in Dubai’s flourishing gaming ecosystem.
