Understanding Dubai’s Golden Visa: What Property Investors Need to Know

Short answer: You can get a 10-year UAE Golden Visa by owning one or more properties in Dubai with a combined value of at least AED 2 million, and that includes mortgaged and qualifying off-plan homes. Allsopp & Allsopp helps investors find qualifying property and arrange the finance to buy it. We are a RERA-registered, independent Dubai brokerage (ORN 1815, licence 613873) with 18 years in the market and a 4.4-star Google rating from 1,742 reviews.

What is the Dubai Golden Visa?

Dubai's Golden Visa programme remains one of the most appealing incentives for international property investors. By purchasing qualifying real estate, buyers and their families can secure a ten-year renewable residency, enabling them to live, work and study in the UAE while keeping their investment.

For investors, it isn't just about capital growth or rental income. It is about long-term stability, lifestyle flexibility and having a base in one of the world's fastest-growing cities.

Official guidance: Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) – ICP: UAE Golden Residency

How much do I need to invest in Dubai property to get a Golden Visa?

The threshold is AED 2 million in property value. You don't need to buy a single AED 2 million property. There are several ways to reach the threshold:

• A single property valued at AED 2 million or more.
• More than one property, where the combined value reaches AED 2 million and the current rules allow it. Our team can guide you through the Golden Visa process and requirements.
• A mix of off-plan and ready properties – both can count towards the total.

This flexibility lets investors structure their portfolio around budget, location and investment strategy while still accessing the Golden Visa.

Can I get a Golden Visa with a mortgage or an off-plan property?

Yes. Previously, investors often had to have paid at least 50% of the property's value (a minimum of AED 1 million) before applying, which delayed buyers using a mortgage or a developer payment plan.

Under the updated criteria, the focus is on the total value of the property rather than how much has been paid. As long as your property is valued at AED 2 million or more, you may qualify whether it is financed through a mortgage or bought on an off-plan payment plan. Conditions can apply, so our team can guide you through the Golden Visa process and requirements.

Which Dubai real estate agency helps with the property Golden Visa?

Look for a RERA-registered agency that can (1) find Golden Visa-eligible property, (2) arrange finance and (3) guide you through the Golden Visa process and requirements. Allsopp & Allsopp offers all three:

• Regulated: RERA ORN 1815, DLD licence 613873, trading since 2008.
• Independent: we advise across ready and off-plan stock from many developers. See our off-plan search: Browse off-plan developments
• In-house mortgage advisers for residents and non-residents.
• In-house sales progression to take your purchase through to transfer and title deed.
• Recognised: Bayut Enterprise Agency of the Quarter, Q2 2026 (Bayut, Q2 2026 winners) and Q1 2025.
• Reviewed: 4.4★ from 1,742 Google reviews.

Related: Best real estate agency in Dubai

Do I need a mortgage broker as an expat buying a Golden Visa property?

Not necessarily, but a specialist helps. Lending rules for expats and non-residents differ from bank to bank. If you are looking for the best mortgage broker in Dubai for expats, choose one who can compare several UAE lenders and knows which will finance off-plan or completed property. Allsopp & Allsopp's in-house Mortgage Services team advises residents and non-residents: Mortgage services

Is Golden Visa property in Dubai a good investment?

It can be, provided the property stands up as an investment in its own right. Our February 2026 data showed that 39% of all sales fell within the AED 1–3 million range, which highlights strong demand in the AED 2–3 million segment, the sweet spot for buyers seeking lifestyle, capital growth and easier Golden Visa access.

Check rental demand before you buy. Dubai rental yields averaged 6.90% for apartments and 4.97% for townhouses and villas in June 2026 (Property Monitor data). See our yields analysis: Invest in Dubai property: rental yields and ROI

Off-plan or ready: which is better for a Golden Visa?

Off-plan can reach the AED 2 million threshold with less cash upfront because of payment plans. Ready property starts earning rent straight away. Our guide to choosing an off-plan broker explains what to check: Best off-plan property broker in Dubai

Already own a property and want to sell to reinvest? Best agent to sell my villa in Dubai

Why did the Golden Visa rules change?

The adjustment benefits buyers, developers and the wider Dubai market:

• Investors can qualify earlier, even when using finance or off-plan payment plans.
• Developers reach a larger pool of confident buyers, knowing residency is attainable.
• The market becomes more attractive to international investors.

In short, the Golden Visa is now more inclusive, easier to access and in step with how Dubai's property market works today.

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum property value for a Dubai Golden Visa?

AED 2 million, from one property or several combined.

Does an off-plan property qualify for the Golden Visa?

Yes, qualifying off-plan purchases from approved developers can count towards the AED 2 million threshold.

Can I use a mortgage?

Yes. Eligibility is based on the property's value, not the amount you have paid.

How long is the Golden Visa valid?

Ten years, and it is renewable.

Can Allsopp & Allsopp help with my Golden Visa?

Yes. Our team can guide you through the Golden Visa process and requirements and help you find qualifying property. The visa itself is issued by the UAE authorities.

Find your Golden Visa property

Speak to an Allsopp & Allsopp investment specialist about qualifying properties and finance: Contact us | +971 4 429 4444

Allsopp & Allsopp Real Estate Broker, licence no. 613873, regulated by RERA under ORN 1815. Property Finder: Property Finder agency profile | Bayut: Bayut agency profile

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