A total of 400 Golden Cards have been issued to outstanding expatriates since the permanent residency scheme was introduced in the UAE last month.
That's according to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs, which unveiled a target of 6,800 for the year 2019.
During a media briefing on Tuesday, a top official clarified that the Golden Card has a 10-year validity and can be renewed as long as all terms and conditions are met.
Major General Mohammad Al Marri, director-general of GDRFA, explained that Golden Card holders will be allowed to travel in and out of the country at will, and the visa validity won't be impacted if they stay out of the UAE for six straight months.
Dubai authorities urge caution amid unstable weather
UAE steps up Gaza relief efforts as winter storm intensifies
Dubai unveils unified platform to drive future innovation
UAE announces new cut-off age for KG, Grade 1 school admissions
Dubai Police recognised as world’s most agile police force
UAE honours Professor Majed Chergui with 'Great Arab Minds' award
UAE issues yellow alert as dusty conditions reduce visibility
Traffic diversions in Ras Al Khor for Dubai Metro Blue Line works
UAE set for second phase of single-use plastic ban
Minor earthquake recorded east of Saudi Arabia
World’s Coolest Winter campaign spotlights UAE entrepreneurs
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan highlights social cohesion in 'Dubai Lunch' initiative
Dubai tests drones to clean traffic signals
UAE leaders hail 'enduring bonds of friendship' on Bahrain's National Day
UAE locally produces 3 oncology medicines to strengthen fight against cancer
UAE stands in solidarity with Morocco over deadly flash floods
Dubai mandates front number plates for delivery bikes
UAE condemns drone attack on peacekeeping base in Sudan
UAE condemns Israel’s approval to establish 19 settlements in West Bank
UAE, European Commission Presidents explore closer ties
