Which routes lead to a Golden Visa?
| Route | Main requirement | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Property investor | Property worth at least AED 2,000,000. Mortgaged and some off-plan properties are accepted under conditions. | 10 years |
| Public investment | At least AED 2,000,000 in an approved investment fund or deposit, or a company with that capital | 10 years |
| Skilled professional | Basic salary of at least AED 30,000 a month, bachelor's degree, MOHRE skill level 1 or 2 | 10 years |
| Entrepreneur | An approved project worth at least AED 500,000, or annual revenue above AED 1,000,000 | 10 years |
| Exceptional talent and students | Talent in science, arts or sport, or a high grade average | 10 years / varies |
Property applications go through the Dubai Land Department (DLD); other routes through GDRFA or ICP.
Options for property under AED 2 million
Property below AED 2 million doesn't qualify for the Golden Visa. Dubai does, however, offer a 2-year investor residency to owners of property worth at least AED 750,000. Check the current requirements with the DLD.
Retirement visa (55+)
People aged 55 or over who have worked for at least 15 years can apply for a 5-year retirement residency. One of these is enough:
- Monthly income of at least AED 15,000 (AED 180,000 a year)
- Savings of at least AED 1,000,000 in a 3-year fixed deposit
- Property in Dubai worth at least AED 1,000,000
- AED 500,000 in property plus AED 500,000 in savings
Cost and timing
Government fees vary by category; roughly you'll pay:
- Application and visa fee: ≈ AED 2,800 – 3,000
- Emirates ID: ≈ AED 1,150
- Medical test: ≈ AED 700
- DLD service fee on the property route: ≈ AED 4,000
Processing usually takes 1–8 weeks. If you use a consultancy, add their service fee.
Family and time abroad
Golden Visa holders can sponsor their spouse, children and parents. Unmarried daughters can be sponsored with no age limit; sons generally up to age 25.
Unlike standard residence permits, a Golden Visa is not cancelled if the holder spends more than six months outside the UAE.
Frequently asked questions
Can you buy UAE citizenship?
No. The UAE has no citizenship-by-investment programme. Citizenship is granted only in exceptional cases by government nomination. What investment can get you is the Golden Visa, a 10-year residency.
Can I get a Golden Visa with a mortgaged property?
Yes, if the property is worth AED 2 million or more and the bank's conditions are met. You'll need a letter from the bank.
Do I have to live in Dubai to keep a Golden Visa?
No. A Golden Visa stays valid even if you spend more than six months outside the UAE.
How long does a Golden Visa take?
Usually 1–8 weeks depending on the category and how ready your documents are.