Step-by-Step Guide: Getting Dubai Residency via Property Investment

Getting a UAE residency visa through property investment in 2025 might seem somewhat intimidating, but it’s actually simpler than you imagine!

Thanks to the Dubai government’s implementation of increasingly investor-friendly policies for foreigners, becoming a resident in the UAE is simply a matter of following a few straightforward steps.

So, if you’ve been asking yourself how to buy a property in Dubai and get the UAE residency Visa, this guide is the perfect place for you to get started.

Step-by-step Guide to Getting a Dubai Investor Visa

Securing residency in Dubai is now an opportunity made possible. That’s why Dubai has many designated freehold areas for foreigners, making it easier for anyone to settle in, maximise returns and build a profitable future. 

To get started on how to secure residency in Dubai through property ownership, let’s explore the necessary steps you need to take:

Understand visa types

Did you know that the UAE government offers visas based on the value of your property investment, each with different durations? It’s true! For a two-year investor visa, you need to invest at least AED 750,000. A five-year residency requires a minimum investment of AED 2 million, while a ten-year investor visa (Golden Visa) needs at least AED 2 million.

Here’s the biggest advantage: Golden Visa owners who have invested AED 2 million can sponsor their family members. This also includes additional healthcare incentives and major benefits.

Click here to learn more about the Golden Visa benefits for residents in Dubai.

The Structure of Property Ownership

Since owning property in Dubai and obtaining a residency visa is a major decision, you must also decide whether you’re the sole investor or taking up property ownership on a joint basis. Here are the conditions for joint property ownership:

• In case of joint property ownership with a spouse, the property’s total value must meet the visa value requirement(approximately AED 750,000 for a 2-year visa, AED 2 million for a 5-year or 10-year visa), along with an attested marriage certificate.
• If the co-owner is not a spouse, each party’s individual share must meet the designated value (approximately AED 750,000 per person for a 2-year visa).

Evaluating Your Mortgage Financing

The option to mortgage a property depends on the visa type.  If you have a 2-year visa, you can definitely use a mortgage to buy a property, provided you can cover at least AED 750,000. For those with 5-year or 10-year visas, the property needs to be valued at a minimum of AED 2 million. The good news is that you might not need to pay the full amount upfront!

Must hold proof of income 

There is no fixed income requirement for owning property in Dubai, but if you plan to finance your purchase with a mortgage, banks may require proof of a steady income (AED 10,000–20,000 per month).

Step-by-step process: Securing a residency in Dubai through property ownership

If you’re thinking about buying a property in Dubai and getting a residency visa, here are a few important steps you need to take. This includes:

1. Buy property in designated areas

You may select a property in a freehold area and register it with the Dubai Land Department (DLD) as soon as possible.

2. Gather required documents

Not having any of the required documents listed below may delay your visa processing.

• Passport and recent photos.
• Title deed for the property.
• Bank statements.
• Proof of income.
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the bank (if mortgaged).
• Medical insurance.
• Police clearance certificate
• A certificate of good conduct issued by the Emirate of Dubai and addressed to the Land Department

3. Medical examination

A standard medical fitness test should be taken at an approved medical center by all visa applicants, along with the required paperwork for it.

4. Apply for residency after documentation

Double-check the details of your documentation and submit it to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) to avoid any delays in the process.

5. Visa granted

After the approval stage, you are officially granted a residency visa with benefits such as sponsoring family members. Processing time may take longer than one week to ten days, depending on approvals.

|| Also Read: Smart Move: How New Residents Are Beating Rising Rents by Buying Properties in Dubai Within 2 Years of Arrival ||

What Happens After Obtaining Residency Through Property Ownership?

The benefits of residency visa after property ownership are quite rewarding. This includes:

• Say no to tax hassles: You’re not accountable for income or capital gains tax, an added advantage for investors to maximize their returns.
• Bring in the returns: In Dubai’s dynamic market, investing in areas with chances of maximised income is the big deal. Some of these high-return areas include Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and Business Bay.

• Stability: The good news is that with a Dubai residency, you have the option to renew your residency and even sponsor family members (depending on the visa type).
• Exclusive perks: This is especially the case for Golden Visa owners, who can enjoy benefits like extended travel privileges and the ability to sponsor people for business purposes.

Residency in Dubai Through Property Ownership: Key Facts

Here are a few things you should keep in mind as a potential investor looking for residency in Dubai:

• Off-plan properties are not granted residency unless the title deed is officially issued.
• You need to obtain a separate work permit for employment in the UAE.
• Make sure to invest in areas that promise returns and ensure long-term appreciation.
• If you are gifted a property with a value of at least AED 750,000, you can still apply for residency.
• Seek advice from property management experts, as an expert knows the ins and outs of the process of obtaining residency through property ownership. Not only do they simplify the documentation process, but they can also help you avoid any major pitfalls in your property-buying journey.

Looking for an expert to help you? Get in touch with one of our AZCO agents to guide you to your property investment goals.

Conclusion

Before buying a property in Dubai, you must always keep in mind how it will benefit you from all angles because every investment should be worth the perks it promises. Ensure the area feels right for your returns, safe, and secure.

Make your investment and residency in Dubai worthwhile, and let AZCO guide you through the best investment decisions. 

Frequently Asked Questions