How to secure a UAE Golden Visa through property investment in 2025
Investing in property in Dubai remains a reliable way to obtain long term residency in the UAE. The Golden Visa enables investors to live in the country without requiring a local sponsor or employment. This guide explains how property buyers can qualify for the Golden Visa in 2025, detailing eligibility criteria, application steps and key benefits.
What is the UAE Golden Visa?
Introduced in 2019, the Golden Visa scheme aims to attract investors, entrepreneurs and skilled professionals by granting long term residency. The visa is issued for 5 or 10 years and can be renewed as long as eligibility is maintained.
Property owners who meet certain investment thresholds are among those eligible. This visa offers greater flexibility for those planning to live, work or study in the UAE over the long term.
For a detailed overview, see our UAE Golden Visa explainer.
Who can get the UAE Golden Visa through property?
Investors can qualify for the UAE Golden Visa by meeting specific property ownership criteria. To be eligible, the property must be valued at AED 2 million or more. This can include properties that are fully owned, mortgaged or Off Plan (under construction), provided the total investment meets the threshold and the buyer holds valid documentation.
Step-by-step on how to apply for the UAE Golden Visa via property investment
The application process involves several key steps:
- Select a qualifying property worth AED 2 million or more.
- Obtain a valuation report from the Dubai Land Department.
- Submit an application via the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA).
- Provide necessary documents, including your passport and property title deed.
- Complete medical screening and biometric registration.
If you require assistance navigating the application, our haus & haus team are well versed in the process.
Documents you’ll need
- Passport copy
- Property title deed or mortgage documents
- Dubai Land Department valuation certificate
- Recent passport photographs
- Emirates ID (if applicable)
Benefits of the Golden Visa for property owners
The UAE’s Golden Visa offers a range of advantages for property investors and their families. It provides long term residency for five or ten years with the option for automatic renewal, making it an attractive choice for those seeking stability. Holders can sponsor immediate family members, including a spouse and children, without the need for a local sponsor or employment contract.
Another key benefit is the ability to maintain residency even while living outside the UAE for extended periods. In addition, the visa offers greater flexibility to conduct business and make further investments within the country.
Can you get a Golden Visa with a mortgage?
Yes. Property owners who have financed their purchase with a mortgage may still be eligible, provided the total property value meets the AED 2 million threshold. Banks must provide a No Objection Certificate confirming the property value and financing.
For advice on financing options and mortgage eligibility, see more information about mortgages.
Popular areas for Golden Visa eligible properties
Many investors seeking Golden Visa eligibility focus on premium areas known for high value properties, including:
Real client example: How John & Amina secured their Golden Visa
British expats John and Amina wanted long term residency in Dubai without employer sponsorship. They purchased an AED 2.3 million apartment in Downtown Dubai. The family received a 5 year Golden Visa and successfully sponsored their children as dependants. They later turned the property into a profitable rental investment.
FAQs: UAE Golden Visa and property investment
The Golden Visa grants long term residency for 5 or 10 years, renewable as long as the eligibility criteria are maintained. It is not equivalent to citizenship but offers a secure and flexible residency status.
Yes, Off Plan properties are eligible for Golden Visa qualification once you have paid at least 50% of the purchase price and a title deed has been issued. This allows investors to benefit from long term residency even before the property is completed, making Off Plan purchases an attractive option.
You can, provided the property value is AED 2 million or higher and the bank issues a No Objection Certificate. The mortgage must be approved by a UAE bank and registered with the Dubai Land Department.
If you sell the property that qualified you for the Golden Visa, your visa status may be affected. The Golden Visa is linked to the property ownership, so selling it could lead to visa cancellation unless you meet other eligibility criteria or acquire another qualifying property.
No, the Golden Visa does not require you to live in the UAE continuously. You can maintain your residency even if you spend significant time abroad, provided you renew the visa and continue to meet the eligibility requirements, such as maintaining property ownership.
Yes. As a Golden Visa holder, you can sponsor your spouse, children (including those over 18, in some cases) and parents for residency visas with the same validity period. This allows families to live, study and work in the UAE together under the long term visa scheme.
Typically, the process takes between two to six weeks, depending on the completeness of your documentation and medical screening. It’s advisable to begin the application well in advance of any planned move.
Get in touch with the haus & haus team
The UAE Golden Visa offers a valuable long term residency opportunity for investors and property buyers alike. Whether you're considering relocation, retirement or investing in Dubai’s thriving real estate market, our knowledgeable team can help you explore the most suitable options.
Browse our curated selection of Golden Visa eligible properties and download the Dubai Real Estate Investment Playbook for key insights into maximising your returns.
When you’re ready, book a complimentary 15 minute consultation with one of our experts to discuss your goals and start your Golden Visa application with confidence.
