The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residence permit designed for investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, scientists, and individuals with exceptional talents. Since its launch in 2019, the program has made the UAE an attractive destination for global talent and investors. One of the most accessible routes to obtaining the Golden Visa is investing in Dubai real estate.
Recent changes to the program have made it easier and more flexible for property investors to secure long-term residency. Let’s explore how you can obtain a Golden Visa in Dubai through property investment and what the process entails.
Updated Golden Visa Requirements for Property Investors
In October 2022, the UAE government introduced new guidelines that significantly lowered the investment threshold and eased restrictions for foreign investors. Some of the major improvements include:
- Minimum property investment lowered to AED 2 million
- No limitation on time spent outside the UAE
- Option to purchase off-plan properties
- Eligibility for mortgage-backed property purchases
These updates provide more flexibility and accessibility, making Dubai property a highly attractive pathway for obtaining long-term residency in the UAE.
Property Investment Options for Residency
First Option: 10-Year Golden Visa
Investors can qualify for a 10-year residency by purchasing real estate worth at least AED 2 million (approximately $545,000) in Dubai’s Freehold Zones, where foreign ownership is permitted.
The investment can be in a completed or off-plan property. Investors are allowed to finance the purchase through a UAE-based mortgage, provided they make a minimum 20% down payment. Family members, including a spouse and children, can be included under the same visa.
Estimated Costs for 10-Year Golden Visa
- Property Purchase: AED 2 million+
- Property Registration Fee: AED 160,000 (~$21,800)
- Visa & ID Fees: AED 3,860 (~$1,043) per person
- Medical Examination: AED 800 (~$220) per person
- Health Insurance: Starting at AED 1,500 (~$400) per person
- Translation & Legalization of Documents: AED 3,700 (~$1,000) per person
Second Option: 2-Year Residency Visa
A more affordable alternative is the 2-year property investor visa, available to those investing at least AED 750,000 (~$204,000) in Freehold areas.
Important conditions
- If purchasing jointly (e.g., with a spouse), the minimum investment must be AED 1 million (~$272,000).
- A 50% down payment is required if the property is financed via mortgage.
- The visa can include a spouse and children under 18.
- This option is ideal for those seeking a shorter-term residency with the potential to upgrade later.
Step-by-Step Guide to Securing a UAE Golden Visa Through Property Investment
Obtaining a UAE Golden Visa through property investment involves a structured and well-supported process. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Initial Eligibility Assessment (1 Day)
The journey begins with a brief but important eligibility review. A certified immigration advisor assesses your profile to ensure you meet the basic requirements for the Golden Visa through real estate investment. This involves a confidential analysis of your financial background, property interest, and legal standing under UAE regulations.
Step 2: Document Preparation and Entry Visa Issuance (5 to 7 Weeks)
Once eligibility is confirmed, you will receive a personalized checklist outlining the required documents. These documents include identification, bank statements, and property details that must be translated into Arabic, notarized, and legally authenticated to meet UAE government standards.
After your paperwork is verified, you will be issued a 6-month multiple-entry visa, which allows you to travel to the UAE to finalize your property purchase and undergo medical and biometric procedures.
Step 3: Property Purchase (5 to 6 Weeks, Can Overlap with Document Processing)
During this stage, you select and purchase a property that qualifies for the Golden Visa program. Investors may choose to do this in person or remotely, with the support of experienced professionals.
Working with Zee Real Estate could give you direct access to pre-approved properties in Dubai’s Freehold Zones areas where foreign ownership is permitted. Their expert team helps identify the right investment options based on your goals, whether you’re seeking long-term capital growth or high rental yields. Furthermore, they’ll handle all legal documentation, contract signing, and registration with the Dubai Land Department, ensuring your transaction is both secure and compliant with UAE regulations.
Step 4: Medical Examination and Health Clearance (1 to 5 Days)
Following your property purchase, you and any adult family members included in the application must complete a medical examination. These tests are carried out at government-approved clinics in the UAE and include screenings for communicable diseases and a chest X-ray. A health certificate is issued once you are cleared, which is essential for visa approval.
Step 5: Final Immigration Procedures and Visa Issuance (Up to 30 Days)
The final stage involves biometric registration at the UAE immigration office. Your fingerprints, photo, and other biometric data are recorded and matched with your official documents.
Once all checks are complete and your application is approved, you will receive your residence visa, valid for either 2 years or 10 years depending on the value of your investment. This visa also allows you to sponsor eligible family members, such as a spouse and children.
Final Thoughts
Securing a UAE Golden Visa through real estate is now more attainable than ever. Whether you’re looking to move your family to Dubai or expand your investment footprint in one of the world’s fastest-growing property markets, this program offers long-term benefits and security.
For expert guidance and exclusive investment opportunities in Dubai’s top Freehold areas, consider working with trusted professionals, who specialize in helping clients secure properties eligible for Golden Visa residency.
