Residency in Dubai for a property investor: visa options

Buying property in Dubai can, under conditions, entitle you to a residence permit. Two main schemes exist for investors. The thresholds and conditions change: they must always be checked with the authorities before any decision.

The 10-year Golden Visa

This long-term visa is open to investors holding one or more properties whose combined value reaches a threshold of AED 2 million. It is renewable, allows you to sponsor your spouse and children and does not require continuous presence in the country. The property must meet conditions: title deed, value and, for a property bought with a mortgage, compliance with specific rules.

The 2-year investor visa

A more accessible scheme exists for acquisitions whose value reaches a more modest threshold (the threshold is set by the regulations in force and may change). It is valid for two years and renewable as long as the conditions are met, with a lighter set of formalities.

How the application works

The process goes through the competent authorities: assembling the file (passport, title deed, health insurance, medical exam), then obtaining the visa and the Emirates ID.

Points of caution

• An off-plan property generally gives entitlement to the visa only under certain payment or delivery conditions, to be checked case by case.
• The value used is that of the title deed, not that of advertisements.
• A residence visa does not by itself change tax residence.
• The family covered and the renewal conditions depend on the type of visa.

What the visa is not

An investment-linked visa makes it easier to stay and to open local accounts, but it is not a tax status and does not guarantee the property's appreciation. It adds to a wealth project that is already sound.

To review your project and check the conditions currently in force, book an appointment with Arzouni Properties.