Three dedicated expatriates in the UAE have been recognized for their volunteer work, receiving the prestigious Golden Visa. These expats, hailing from India, Uganda, and the Philippines, have contributed thousands of hours to various causes, including distributing Iftar meals, packaging relief goods, and guiding passengers at the Dubai Metro. Their commitment to giving back to the community has been rewarded with long-term residency through the UAE’s Golden Visa program.
Arshad Junaid: Overcoming Challenges Through Volunteerism
Arshad Junaid, a 32-year-old sales executive from Bihar, India, has been a Dubai resident since 2017. After moving to the UAE, he was eager to continue the social work he had begun in India. In January 2018, he met Khalid Nawab, the chairman of the Nabdh Al Emarat volunteer team, which marked the beginning of his extensive volunteer journey.
Junaid has since accumulated over 1,000 volunteer hours through the Dubai Government's volunteer platform, despite facing challenges and skepticism from friends. “Volunteering has become my hobby,” Junaid said, noting that it’s not about money but about making a difference. His efforts have not only earned him fulfillment but also the opportunity to meet notable public figures, including Sheikha Mahra and Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Receiving the Golden Visa was an unexpected but gratifying recognition for Junaid’s contributions to society. He encourages other UAE residents to consider volunteering, describing it as a noble and rewarding experience.
Mubarack Nsubuga: Passion for Giving Back
Mubarack Nsubuga, a 27-year-old mechanical engineering technician from Uganda, began his volunteer journey during Expo 2020 Dubai. Since then, he has volunteered with several organizations, including Emirates Red Crescent and the Zayed Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation. His dedication spans across various causes, from Ramadan Iftar distributions to sports events like marathons and cultural festivals.
When Nsubuga reached 600 volunteer hours, he realized he was eligible for the Golden Visa under the humanitarian pioneers category. After applying through the ICP portal, his nomination was approved, leading to a 10-year visa. Nsubuga remains committed to volunteering, particularly at sports events and environmental initiatives such as UAE Clean Up.
J Rom Anoling Dela Cruz: An Advance Birthday Gift
Filipino expat J Rom Anoling Dela Cruz, a 36-year-old finance manager in Dubai, considers his Golden Visa an early birthday gift. He has been an active volunteer since 2018, beginning with food distribution campaigns for workers and later serving as a volunteer at Dubai Metro.
Dela Cruz has completed over 600 volunteer hours through platforms like volunteers.ae. He enjoys guiding tourists, managing crowds, and assisting commuters at the metro station, considering the smiles of those he helps a significant reward. His Golden Visa will allow him to bring his wife and three children to the UAE, all of whom are also eligible for the visa.
How to Earn a Golden Visa Through Volunteering
For those inspired by the stories of Junaid, Nsubuga, and Dela Cruz, the UAE offers multiple platforms where residents can register for volunteering and humanitarian initiatives. By dedicating time and effort to meaningful causes, residents can contribute to the community and potentially earn the honor of a Golden Visa, further solidifying the UAE’s status as a welcoming and inclusive country.
