TryBeforeDubaiThe Dubai Golden Visa, explained
The Golden Visa offers long-term UAE residency without a local sponsor. Here's the property route, the thresholds, and who else qualifies.
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residence visa (commonly 5 or 10 years, renewable) that lets you live in the UAE without a traditional employer sponsor, sponsor your family, and stay outside the country for longer than a standard residence visa allows. For many relocating to Dubai, the property route is the most relevant.
Owning UAE real estate worth AED 2 million or more can qualify you for a 10-year Golden Visa. It can apply to one or more qualifying properties, and may be available on off-plan or mortgaged property subject to conditions — confirm current rules.
Main routes to a Golden Visa
- Property investors — AED 2m+ in qualifying real estate.
- Skilled professionals — via salary/qualification thresholds and an employment contract.
- Entrepreneurs & investors — owning or founding qualifying businesses.
- Specialised talent — scientists, doctors, creatives, top students and others.
Why it matters for movers
- Stability — residency that isn't tied to a single job, useful if you change roles or freelance.
- Family — sponsor spouse and children (and sometimes domestic staff) under your visa.
- Flexibility — longer permitted absences from the UAE than a standard visa.
- It can shape a buy-vs-rent decision — see freehold vs leasehold and DLD fees.
How to apply (property route, in brief)
- 1Buy qualifying property
Acquire freehold property meeting the value threshold and register it at the DLD.
- 2Apply via DLD / ICP / GDRFA
Property-based Golden Visa applications are commonly initiated through the Dubai Land Department's services and the federal authorities.
- 3Complete medical & Emirates ID
Standard residency steps — medical test, Emirates ID and biometrics.
- 4Sponsor your family
Once issued, add dependants under your Golden Visa.
Thresholds, eligibility and procedures are updated periodically. Confirm the current criteria with the DLD, ICP/GDRFA or a licensed advisor before making decisions.
Frequently asked
Generally AED 2 million or more in qualifying UAE real estate for the 10-year property route. Confirm current conditions, including off-plan and mortgage rules, with the DLD.
No — that's the point. It grants long-term residency without an employer sponsor, and lets you sponsor your own family.
Keep reading
If you're buying in Dubai, freehold vs leasehold decides what you actually own and for how long. Here's the difference and why it matters for expats.
Read guideIf you're buying property in Dubai, the DLD transfer fee is the big upfront government charge. Here's what it is, the headline 4%, and the other costs that come with a purchase.
Read guideBeyond rent, the act of moving has its own price tag — shipping, visas, deposits and setting up a home. Here's a realistic budget for the move itself.
Read guideSee how this applies to your move.
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