The Property Investor Golden Visa is a long-term, 10-year residency permit granted to individuals who make a significant investment in the UAE’s real estate market. Unlike the standard 2-year residency visa, this program offers a decade of stability and does not require a local employer or sponsor.
Quick Summary
Duration: 10 Years (Renewable).
Minimum Investment: AED 2,000,000 (Two Million Dirhams).
Sponsorship: Self-sponsored; you can sponsor your spouse, children (regardless of age), and domestic staff.
Stay Requirement: No minimum stay required; the visa remains valid even if you stay outside the UAE for more than 180 days.
Who Qualifies?
To be eligible for the 10-year Golden Visa through real estate, the following conditions must be met:
Investment Value: The total value of your property (or properties) must be at least AED 2,000,000.
Property Type: You can invest in a single property or a portfolio of multiple properties (residential or commercial).
Status: Both “Ready” properties and “Off-plan” properties are eligible, provided the developer is approved and the investment meets the minimum threshold.
The Fine Print (What You Need to Know)
Understanding the technical requirements is key to a successful application:
Mortgaged Properties: If you have purchased a property via a mortgage, you can still qualify. However, a minimum cash payment of at least AED 2,000,000 must have been paid to the bank or developer, or the remaining mortgage must be less than the total equity you hold.
Joint Ownership: If a property is owned jointly (e.g., between a husband and wife), the individual share of each person must meet the AED 2,000,000 requirement—unless you are applying as a family unit.
Title Deed Requirements: The visa application is primarily processed through the Dubai Land Department (DLD) for Dubai properties, which will issue a “Golden Visa Approval” once the title deed and valuation are verified.
Common Questions
Can I get a Golden Visa if I buy a property with a group of friends? Yes, provided your individual share in the property’s value is at least AED 2,000,000. Each partner must meet this threshold to qualify for their own individual Golden Visa.
Is the AED 2,000,000 based on the purchase price or current market value? It is generally based on the purchase price listed on the Title Deed or the Oqood (for off-plan). If the property has significantly appreciated, a formal valuation from the Dubai Land Department may be used to prove the new value.
Does this visa give me the right to work in the UAE? Yes. As a Golden Visa holder, you have the right to live, work, and conduct business anywhere in the UAE. You do not need a separate work permit from an employer.