Obtaining The Golden Visa UAE Property

Introduction

Obtaining the UAE Golden Visa property ownership has become one of the most attractive options for Arab and international investors seeking long-term stability in a country known for its strong economy, advanced infrastructure, and flexible, investment-friendly regulations.
The UAE does not view the real estate investor as merely a property owner, but rather as a partner in economic development. For this reason, this pathway has been given special importance within the Golden Visa program.

In this comprehensive guide, we explain in detail how to obtain the UAE Golden Visa through real estate ownership, including the requirements, steps, eligible property types, and why this option is considered one of the safest and most stable pathways compared to others.

What Is the UAE Golden Visa?

The Golden Visa is a long-term residency permit granted for 5 or 10 years and renewable, allowing its holder to live, work, and invest in the UAE without the need for a local sponsor or employer.

This residency is distinguished by the following benefits:

• Long-term legal stability
• No dependency on a job or sponsoring entity
• Freedom to travel and stay outside the country for extended periods
• Inclusion of family members
• Greater confidence for financial and investment planning

Why Is Buying Property an Ideal Way to Obtain the Golden Visa?

Purchasing real estate is considered one of the clearest and most stable pathways to obtaining the Golden Visa, for several reasons:

• A tangible investment asset with growth potential
• Strong legal protection for property owners
• Residency not linked to employment or monthly income
• Ability to combine investment returns with residency benefits
• Clear requirements and ease of proving eligibility

For these reasons, many investors prefer this option over residency programs based on salary or bank deposits.

What Are the Conditions for Obtaining the UAE Golden Visa Through Property Purchase?

The competent authorities in the UAE require several key criteria to grant the Golden Visa through real estate ownership, including:

Property Value

• The total value of the property or properties must not be less than AED 2 million
• The value registered in the title deed is considered, not just the purchase price

Property Type

• Approved residential or investment property
• The property may be ready or under construction
• For off-plan projects, an approved completion percentage must be achieved

Ownership

• The property must be registered in the applicant’s name
• The property does not need to be mortgage-free, provided the financing entity approves

Continuity

• Selling the property may lead to cancellation of the Golden Visa unless it is replaced with another qualifying property

Can You Obtain the Golden Visa by Purchasing More Than One Property?

Yes, it is possible to:

• Combine the value of multiple properties to reach the required minimum
• Own properties in different areas within the UAE
• Ensure all properties are officially registered with the relevant land department

This option provides investors with greater flexibility in diversifying their investments and reducing risk.

Can You Buy a Property in Installments and Obtain the Golden Visa?

In some cases, yes, provided that:

• The paid installments are sufficient to meet the minimum required value
• An official certificate is issued by the developer or relevant authority
• The project is approved by government authorities

Steps to Obtain the UAE Golden Visa Through Property Purchase

Choosing the Right Property

The process begins by selecting a property that is:

• Legally compliant
• Registered or eligible for official registration
• Of real investment value

Completing the Purchase Procedures

This includes:

• Signing the contract
• Paying the required installments
• Registering ownership with the Land Department

Preparing the Residency File

The file includes:

• Passport
• Personal photo
• Title deed
• Property valuation certificate
• Additional documents depending on the case

Submitting the Application to the Relevant Authorities

Applications are submitted through:

• The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship
• Or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in the selected emirate

Receiving the Golden Visa

• Average processing time: approximately 20 working days
• The visa is issued for 10 years and is renewable

What Are the Best Types of Properties to Obtain the Golden Visa?

Investors usually prefer properties that combine:

• Stable market value
• High rental demand
• A reliable real estate developer
• A strategic location in Dubai or Abu Dhabi

Modern residential projects with distinctive architectural design and integrated infrastructure receive particular interest due to their medium- and long-term investment value.

Does the Golden Visa Include Family Members?

Yes, the Golden Visa holder can sponsor:

• A spouse
• Children with no age restrictions
• Domestic workers

The family’s legal status remains valid even in the event of the visa holder’s death, in accordance with applicable regulations.

The Difference Between Real Estate Golden Visa and Regular Residency

Golden Visa:

• Long-term
• Independent of a sponsor
• Linked to investment
• Provides broader legal stability

Regular Residency:

• Short-term
• Linked to a job or sponsor
• Becomes invalid if employment status changes

What Are the Disadvantages of the Golden Visa in Dubai?

Despite the significant advantages of the UAE Golden Visa, it is important for investors to be aware of certain aspects that may be considered challenges or relative drawbacks, to ensure a well-informed investment decision.

The first point is the investment commitment, as obtaining the Golden Visa through real estate requires owning property worth at least AED 2 million. This is a relatively high amount compared to residency programs in some other countries, making it more suitable for a specific category of investors.

Additionally, selling the property leads to the loss of the Golden Visa, which limits the flexibility of exiting the investment quickly. Investors must balance investment returns with the desire to retain residency.

Another relative drawback is that the Golden Visa does not grant UAE citizenship. It is a long-term, renewable residency, meaning investors seeking a second passport may not find it to be their final goal.

Moreover, strict compliance with local real estate and regulatory laws is essential, particularly regarding eligible property types, as not all units or projects qualify for the Golden Visa.

Despite these points, the Golden Visa in Dubai remains one of the strongest long-term residency programs globally, especially when compared in terms of economic stability, security, and investment returns.

The Role of Al Hafez Company in Obtaining the Golden Visa Through Property Ownership

Al Hafez Company plays a pivotal role in facilitating the investor’s journey toward obtaining the UAE Golden Visa by offering an integrated range of services, including:

• Assessing investor eligibility before purchase
• Selecting properties specifically eligible for the Golden Visa, not just for purchase
• Coordinating with approved real estate developers
• Conducting full legal reviews of title deeds
• Preparing and following up on the residency file with official authorities
• A legal team consisting of lawyers specialized in residency and investment cases

This integrated approach reduces risks and ensures that the selected property is genuinely eligible for the Golden Visa without future surprises.

Frequently Asked Questions About Obtaining the UAE Golden Visa Through Property Purchase

What Is the Minimum Property Value Required to Obtain the Golden Visa?

The minimum value is AED 2 million, which can be achieved through a single property or multiple properties.

Can the Property Be Sold After Obtaining the Golden Visa?

Selling the property may result in cancellation of the residency if the investor no longer meets the required ownership conditions.

Does the Golden Visa Lead to UAE Citizenship?

No, the Golden Visa does not lead to citizenship, but it provides long-term and stable residency.

How Long Does It Take to Obtain the Golden Visa?

On average, between 15 and 20 working days after completing the file.

Can You Apply for the Golden Visa From Outside the UAE?

Yes, procedures can be initiated from outside the country, especially for real estate investors.

Is Living in the Property Required to Obtain the Golden Visa?

No, actual residence is not required. The property can be rented out and generate income.

Do You Get a Golden Visa If You Buy a Property in Dubai?

Yes, you can obtain a Golden Visa in Dubai by purchasing one or more properties with a total value of at least AED 2 million, provided the property is registered in the investor’s name in the title deed and meets the eligibility requirements set by the Dubai Land Department. The property may be ready or off-plan under specific conditions.

Do You Lose the Golden Visa If You Sell the Property?

Yes. If the property on which the Golden Visa was granted is sold without replacing it with another property that meets the minimum value requirement, the Golden Visa will be automatically canceled.
For this reason, investors planning to sell are advised to reinvest in another qualifying property before completing the sale to maintain their legal and residency status.

Can You Obtain a Golden Visa for an Off-Plan Property?

Yes, the UAE allows obtaining the Golden Visa through off-plan properties, provided certain conditions are met, including:

• The project has reached the approved completion percentage
• The total property value is not less than AED 2 million
• An official certificate from the developer confirming the project status and paid amounts
• The project is approved and registered with the Land Department

This option is suitable for investors seeking flexible payment plans and higher medium-term capital appreciation.

How Long Does It Take to Obtain the Golden Visa in Dubai?

Typically, the process takes between 15 and 30 working days from the date of submitting a complete application with correct documentation.
The duration may vary depending on the type of investment, document completion speed, and whether the applicant is inside or outside the UAE.

With specialized companies that have extensive legal and administrative experience, such as Al Hafez Company, processing time can be minimized while ensuring correct submission from the first attempt without delays.

Article Summary

Obtaining the UAE Golden Visa property ownership is not merely a residency privilege, but a strategic investment decision that combines legal stability with financial returns in one of the world’s strongest real estate markets.
With proper planning, the right property selection, and the support of an experienced entity such as Al Hafez Company, this pathway becomes one of the safest and clearest ways to secure the Golden Visa with confidence and sustainability.