Residency by Investment | Other Countries
The UAE Golden Visa offers foreign investors, professionals, and entrepreneurs long-term residence in Dubai and other emirates without a local sponsor. A 5- or 10-year renewable visa is available, most commonly by purchasing real estate worth at least AED 2 million (around USD 545,000).
Holders can live, work, and study in the UAE, enjoy 100 % business ownership, and sponsor family members for the same duration. While it doesn’t grant citizenship directly, the program provides secure residency in a tax-friendly environment and access to the country’s dynamic economy and lifestyle.
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Added: December 13, 2025
Added: November 30, 2025
Pass a medical fitness examination and show proof of active UAE-approved health insurance coverage
Apply through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) or the Dubai GDRFA portal, uploading all required documents and paying government fees
Ensure all funds for investment are legally sourced and transferred through recognized financial channels
| Criterion | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Investment | AED 2,000,000 (≈ USD 545,000) in real estate |
| Investment Options |
• Real estate: freehold property ≥ AED 2M • Business ownership: 100% foreign ownership in mainland company • Specialized talent or professional categories available |
| Processing Time | 2–4 weeks (typical for real estate route) |
| Physical Stay Requirement | No strict residency requirement; can stay outside UAE for extended periods |
| Initial Permit Type | Long-term residency visa (5 or 10 years, renewable) |
| Notable Benefits |
• Live, work, and study in the UAE • Sponsor spouse, children, and domestic staff • 100% business ownership • Tax-free personal income and capital gains • Access to high-quality healthcare, education, and infrastructure |
| Key Requirements |
• Valid passport • Clean criminal record • Good health and medical insurance • Proof of property purchase or qualifying investment |
| Documentation Needs |
• Passport copy • Property title deed or business ownership documents • Medical fitness certificate • Police clearance certificate • Proof of health insurance • Financial proof showing legal source of funds |
| Path to Citizenship | The Golden Visa provides long-term residency only; citizenship is not directly granted |
| Application Process |
1. Choose eligible investment or professional category 2. Prepare required documents 3. Submit application via UAE ICP or GDRFA portal 4. Complete medical tests and biometrics 5. Pay fees and receive residency visa |
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency program for investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, and exceptional talents, allowing them to live, work, and study in the UAE without a local sponsor
Foreign investors must purchase freehold property worth at least AED 2,000,000 (≈ USD 545,000) in approved areas to qualify
Yes. Golden Visa holders can sponsor their spouse, children of any age, and domestic staff for the same visa duration
Eligible investments include business ownership with 100% foreign ownership in the UAE mainland, and in some cases, entrepreneurial projects, specialized talents, or professional achievements
Processing typically takes 2–4 weeks for real estate investors, though timing may vary based on category and completeness of documents
No strict stay requirement exists; holders can remain outside the UAE for extended periods without losing residency status
No, the Golden Visa grants long-term residency only. Citizenship is not directly provided through this program.
The UAE offers zero personal income tax, capital gains tax, and inheritance tax, making it highly attractive for investors
Yes. Investors can establish and operate 100% foreign-owned businesses on the UAE mainland and benefit from simplified company registration procedures
Required documents include a passport copy, property title deed or business ownership documents, medical fitness certificate, police clearance certificate, proof of health insurance, and evidence of the legal source of funds
Owning a home is a keystone of wealth… both financial affluence and emotional security.
