What Is the UAE Golden Visa?
Introduced in 2019 and expanded in 2022, the UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency program designed for investors, entrepreneurs, and key talent. Property investors who purchase AED 2M+ in Dubai real estate are eligible to apply. Unlike standard UAE residency visas, the Golden Visa requires no employer sponsorship and has no minimum stay requirement.
10-Year Residency
Renewable long-term visa
No Sponsor Needed
Self-sponsored for investors
Family Included
Spouse and children
Eligibility Requirements
Key Requirements
Minimum Investment
AED 2,000,000 (approx. USD 545,000)
Property Type
Residential or commercial in Dubai freehold zones
Ownership
Title deed in investor's name via DLD
Mortgage
May qualify if equity portion ≥ AED 2M
Off-Plan
Eligible if purchase price ≥ AED 2M with substantial payment
Holding conditions
Confirm with the Dubai Land Department whether any holding period applies
Step-by-Step Application Process
- 1
Purchase a Qualifying Property
Buy property totalling AED 2M+ in Dubai freehold zones. Title deed must be in your name via DLD.
- 2
Get DLD Valuation Certificate
Dubai Land Department issues a valuation certificate confirming the AED 2M threshold is met.
- 3
Apply Through GDRFA or ICP
Submit your Golden Visa application through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (Dubai) or the ICA federal portal.
- 4
Submit Required Documents
Passport, title deed, DLD valuation certificate, passport photos, and completed application form.
- 5
Medical & Emirates ID
Complete medical fitness test and biometric registration.
- 6
Receive Your Golden Visa
10-year residency visa issued — you can immediately sponsor eligible family members.
Benefits Beyond Residency
- ✓UAE bank account access and full financial services
- ✓Enrol children in UAE schools and universities
- ✓Access UAE healthcare system
- ✓No minimum stay requirement — travel freely
- ✓Zero income tax and capital gains tax in UAE
- ✓Business setup in UAE free zones and mainland
- ✓Sponsor your entire family under one visa
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum property value for a Dubai Golden Visa?
AED 2 million (approximately USD 545,000). The property must be registered with the Dubai Land Department in your name.
Can I get a Golden Visa with off-plan property?
Yes, if the purchase price is AED 2M+ and substantial payment has been made. Fully unfinished properties typically do not qualify until payment milestones are met.
How long does the UAE Golden Visa last?
The UAE Golden Visa is a 10-year renewable residency. It can be renewed as long as the qualifying investment is maintained.
Can my family get a Golden Visa?
Yes. Golden Visa holders can sponsor their spouse and children. Rules for other dependents can change, so confirm the current conditions before you apply.
Do I need to live in the UAE to keep my Golden Visa?
Not in the way standard residency requires. Golden Visa holders can stay outside the UAE for longer than the usual six-month limit that applies to normal residence visas, which suits international investors. Check the current conditions before you apply.
Golden Visa for Indians
Yes, Indian citizens can apply for the Golden Visa through property. The AED 2 million requirement is the same for every nationality, and you do not need to live in the UAE to buy. Whether you live in India or abroad, the practical points are:
- Budget in rupees: at an illustrative ₹25 per AED, AED 2 million is about ₹5 crore, plus the 4% transfer fee and government fees. See the Golden Visa cost breakdown.
- Sending money: resident Indians commonly use the Liberalised Remittance Scheme through an authorised bank. Confirm current limits and tax collected at source before you transfer.
- Tax in India: the Golden Visa does not change your Indian tax position. Read Dubai property tax for Indians.
- Buying process: see can Indians buy property in Dubai.
Find Golden Visa-Eligible Properties
Browse properties priced AED 2M+ and connect with RERA-licensed agents specializing in Golden Visa investments.