UAE Golden Visa for property purchase: Requirements in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

The Golden Visa is the UAE's equivalent of a residence permit, allowing holders to live in the country for 10 years and enjoy nearly the same rights as regular UAE citizens. The conditions for obtaining this visa through property purchase vary slightly between the major cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Dubai and the 50% rule

In Dubai, you can apply for a 10-year residence permit by purchasing property worth at least $545,000 in a development that is at least 50% complete. Conveniently, the visa can be renewed an unlimited number of times.

More lenient Abu Dhabi

In the UAE's capital, the requirements are slightly less stringent. You still need to invest $545,000 in real estate, but the stage of completion of the property is irrelevant. Even if the project has just begun, you can apply for the Golden Visa upon purchase.