Dubai Golden Visa through property: what to know before you buy
By Ambish Singh, Founder · Facts checked October 2026
In shortInvesting in Dubai property above a stated value threshold can qualify an owner for a long-term residence visa. The rules on the threshold, mortgaged property and off-plan have changed before, so confirm them with the Dubai Land Department before you buy, and do not choose a property for the visa alone.
What the property route is
The UAE offers a long-term residence visa, commonly called the Golden Visa, for certain investors. For property, eligibility has been linked to owning real estate above a set value, which has been AED 2 million. The visa lets the holder, and in most cases family members, live in the UAE, and is renewable.
Points to confirm for your purchase
- The current value threshold, and whether it applies to the property price or to the amount paid.
- Whether off-plan property qualifies, and at what stage of payment.
- Whether a mortgaged property qualifies, and the minimum equity required.
- Whether several smaller properties can be combined to reach the threshold.
- The process and fees to apply, and the medical and insurance requirements.
These conditions have been updated by the authorities more than once. Treat any figure here, or from a salesperson, as a starting point, and verify it with the Dubai Land Department or the immigration authority.
What the visa does not do
- It does not make a weak property a good investment.
- It does not by itself change your tax position in India. Residency and tax rules are separate, so ask a chartered accountant.
- It does not remove the need to check the developer, the escrow account and the contract.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum property value for the UAE Golden Visa?
It has been AED 2 million for property investors. The authorities can change the rules, so confirm the current threshold and conditions before buying.
Can I get the Golden Visa with an off-plan property?
Rules on off-plan eligibility have varied. Ask the Dubai Land Department or a licensed advisor for the current position at the time of your purchase.
Official sources
Check these yourself. They are the regulators' own sites, not ours.
- Dubai Land DepartmentCheck broker licences and property services; Dubai's property regulator, RERA, is part of the Department.
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This page is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rates, thresholds and rules change, so confirm them with the relevant authority or a qualified professional before you decide.