Dubai Golden Visa for Real Estate Investors Explained

Dubai’s Golden Visa program has become one of the most attractive residency options in the world -especially for property investors. First launched in 2019 and updated in recent years, the program allows eligible foreigners to obtain long-term residency (5 or 10 years) by investing in Dubai’s real estate sector. This route offers a pathway to stability, lifestyle, and business freedom in one of the world’s fastest-growing cities.

Here’s a focused look at how the Golden Visa works through property investment - its benefits, key requirements, and the application process.

Why Choose the Real Estate Route?

The real estate investment path is one of the most popular and accessible options for securing a Golden Visa. It’s ideal for high-net-worth individuals, international buyers, and residents looking to commit to Dubai long-term. Here are some of the main benefits:

1. Long-Term Residency (5 or 10 Years)

Property investors can obtain either a 5-year or 10-year Golden Visa, depending on the value and ownership structure of the property. The visa is renewable as long as you retain ownership.

2. Full Family Sponsorship

The visa allows you to sponsor your spouse, children of any age, and even domestic staff - making it a comprehensive residency solution for families.

3. No Local Sponsor Needed

Unlike typical UAE visas, the Golden Visa via real estate doesn’t require an Emirati sponsor or employer.

4. Tax-Free Investment Environment

Dubai offers zero income tax, zero capital gains tax, and no property tax, making it a highly favorable environment for real estate investors.

5. Market Access and Lifestyle

Owning property in Dubai gives you access to a luxury lifestyle, excellent healthcare and education, and a stable, investor-friendly legal framework.

Golden Visa Requirements for Real Estate Investors

To qualify for a Dubai Golden Visa via real estate, you must meet the following key criteria:

Minimum Investment Amount

• You must invest at least AED 2 million (~USD 545,000) in one or more properties located in Dubai.

Property Types

• Both completed and off-plan properties are eligible.

• If the property is off-plan, it must be purchased from an approved developer in Dubai.

Ownership & Financing

• Properties can be fully owned or mortgaged. You must hold a freehold title deed in your name and secure a bank No-Objection Certificate (NOC) for the mortgage

• Joint ownership with a spouse is allowed, provided your individual or combined share equals or exceeds AED 2 million.

Other Requirements

• The property must be held in the name of the individual (not a company, unless the company is owned 100% by the applicant).

• Applicant must pass a medical fitness test and obtain a police clearance certificate.