What Is the Golden Visa Property Threshold in Dubai?
The UAE 10-year Golden Visa requires a property investment of AED 2 million or more in a completed freehold property, owned mortgage-free or with qualifying equity above AED 2 million. A separate 2-year investor visa is available for property investments from AED 750,000. Both visas extend residency to the investor’s spouse and dependent children, do not require continuous UAE presence, and can be applied for by any nationality with a clean UAE record.
The Two Property Visa Routes
| Visa | Min. Property Value | Duration | Key Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Golden Visa (10-year) | AED 2 million | 10 years, renewable | Completed property; mortgage-free OR equity ≥ AED 2 million |
| Investor Visa (2-year) | AED 750,000 | 2 years, renewable | Completed OR off-plan with significant payment made; single or joint ownership |
Which Properties Qualify?
Any residential property in a designated Dubai freehold area counts, as long as:
- The property is completed (handover certificate issued) — off-plan units qualify only for the 2-year visa
- The title deed is registered with the Dubai Land Department
- The value is confirmed by a DLD-approved valuation at the time of application
- If mortgaged, the buyer’s paid-in equity meets or exceeds the threshold
Popular Golden Visa–Eligible Areas
The AED 2 million threshold aligns naturally with the mainstream luxury and upper-mid market in Dubai. Typical qualifying purchases include:
- 2-bedroom apartments in Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Business Bay, Bluewaters
- 3-bedroom townhouses in Dubai Hills, Arabian Ranches, The Sustainable City
- 1-bedroom branded residences in Palm Jumeirah and select Downtown towers
- Villas in Mudon, JVC, or emerging communities
The Application Process
Step 1 — Own a qualifying property
Title deed issued, property value confirmed at AED 2 million or above by a DLD-certified valuation.
Step 2 — Apply via the Dubai Land Department
Applications are submitted through the DLD’s Dubai REST app or at their service centres. Your broker can prepare the file.
Step 3 — Medical test and biometrics
Standard UAE residency medical fitness test and Emirates ID biometrics — completed locally during a short visit.
Step 4 — Visa issued
Processing typically takes 2–6 weeks from submission. Dependants’ visas can be applied for simultaneously.
Common Misconceptions
“Do I need to live in Dubai to keep the Golden Visa?”
No. Unlike standard UAE residence visas, the Golden Visa does not have a minimum presence requirement. Holders can spend as much or as little time in the UAE as they choose without invalidating the visa.
“Can multiple properties be combined?”
Yes. You can combine the value of two or more properties to meet the AED 2 million threshold, provided all are in your name.
“Does off-plan property qualify?”
Not for the 10-year Golden Visa — only for the 2-year investor visa. The 10-year visa requires completed property with a title deed.
FAQs
What is the minimum property investment for the UAE Golden Visa?
AED 2 million (approximately USD 544,000) in a completed freehold property.
Does the Golden Visa include family members?
Yes. Spouse and dependent children can be sponsored under the same investment.
Can mortgaged properties qualify for the Golden Visa?
Yes, provided the buyer’s paid equity is at least AED 2 million.
How long does the Golden Visa application take?
Typically 2–6 weeks from submission to issuance.
Get a Golden Visa–Aligned Shortlist
We help clients structure their Dubai property purchase specifically to meet Golden Visa criteria — from initial shortlisting through DLD valuation to visa application. Contact us for a Golden Visa–qualified property shortlist.