To qualify for a Golden Visa in the UAE as a real estate investor, applicants must meet specific criteria designed to attract high-net-worth individuals and investors who contribute to the country’s economy. The Golden Visa offers long-term residency, providing greater security and a range of benefits for investors and their families. Below are the key criteria that real estate investors need to meet to qualify for the UAE Golden Visa:

1. Investment Threshold

• The primary requirement for obtaining a Golden Visa through real estate investment is the minimum property value. Investors must purchase property with a minimum value of AED 2 million or more to qualify.
  
  

• The investment can be in a single property or multiple properties as long as the combined value is at least AED 2 million.
  
  

2. Freehold Properties

• The investment must be in freehold properties located in designated areas. Freehold properties offer full ownership rights to expatriates, including the ability to buy, sell, or lease the property. Leasehold properties with restricted ownership terms do not qualify for the Golden Visa.
  
  

3. Property Ownership Documentation

• The investor must provide official title deeds issued by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) or the relevant authorities in other emirates, verifying ownership and the value of the property. These documents are essential for the visa application process.
  
  

4. No Mortgage or Financing Requirements

• The minimum property investment of AED 2 million must be fully paid, without being subject to a mortgage. This means that the investor must own the property outright, without relying on financing. If a property is partially financed, only the amount paid in full will be counted toward the AED 2 million threshold.
  
  

5. Under-Construction or Off-Plan Properties

• Investors can also qualify for the Golden Visa by purchasing off-plan or under-construction properties, as long as they meet the AED 2 million minimum value. The purchase must be from approved developers, and the necessary contracts and payment receipts must be provided during the application process.
  
  

6. Retaining Ownership

• Investors are required to retain ownership of the property for at least two years. Selling the property before this period may result in the cancellation of the Golden Visa.
  
  

7. Family Sponsorship

• Real estate investors who qualify for the Golden Visa can sponsor their immediate family members, including their spouse and children. The visa also extends to family members for the same duration as the investor’s visa, offering long-term residency for the entire family.
  
  

8. Eligibility for 10-Year Residency

• Once the investment criteria are met, the investor is eligible for a 10-year residency visa. The Golden Visa is renewable, and holders are not required to have a local sponsor, giving them more independence and flexibility.
  
  

9. Additional Benefits

• The UAE Golden Visa for real estate investors provides various benefits:

  • No Income Tax: Investors enjoy Dubai’s tax-free environment, with no income tax or capital gains tax on property sales.
    
    

  • Business and Job Opportunities: Investors can freely start businesses or hold employment without the need for additional work permits.
    
    

  • Ease of Travel: The Golden Visa allows for ease of travel in and out of the UAE without frequent renewals.
    
    

  • Residency for Up to 10 Years: Unlike traditional residency visas, the Golden Visa offers long-term security with a 10-year duration.
    
    

10. Application Process

• The process of applying for a Golden Visa as a real estate investor typically involves the following steps:
  
  

  1. Property Purchase: Ensure the property or properties you are purchasing meet the AED 2 million threshold and are freehold.
     
     

  2. Title Deed Submission: Submit the title deed(s) issued by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) or other emirates’ land authorities as proof of ownership.
     
     

  3. Golden Visa Application: Apply for the Golden Visa through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or relevant authorities in the emirate where the property is located.
     
     

  4. Medical Test and Insurance: Complete the required medical examination and obtain health insurance for yourself and your dependents.
     
     

  5. Emirates ID: Once approved, you will be issued an Emirates ID that grants you residency for up to 10 years.