If you own a completed home in Dubai, it can be the basis for a 2-year UAE residence visa. In April 2026 the Dubai Land Department removed the AED 750,000 minimum property value for sole owners.
What changed in 2026
Since 2009 the 2-year investor visa in Dubai required property worth at least AED 750,000. At the end of April 2026 DLD removed this threshold for sole owners: completed residential property of any value now qualifies. For joint owners the minimum is AED 400,000 per applicant's share.
Property requirements
The property must be in Dubai, completed and registered with the Land Department, and the applicant must hold a title deed or an electronic ownership certificate. A mortgaged home qualifies, but you will need bank documents and a no-objection certificate (NOC).
Family
The owner can sponsor a spouse and children and, reportedly, parents for one year. Each family member takes a medical test and receives their own Emirates ID.
How to apply
Apply through Dubai Land Department services — Cube centres and the online residence service for property owners (Taskeen). Then complete the medical test, biometrics and Emirates ID. Processing reportedly takes about 7–10 working days.
What it costs
According to Middle East Briefing (May 2026), the principal applicant's visa fee is about AED 10,200, a spouse about AED 7,400 and a child under 18 about AED 6,500. Fees change, so check the exact amount when you apply.
2-year visa or Golden Visa
The 2-year visa suits owners of completed homes on a smaller budget, but it must be renewed every 2 years and requires a completed property. The Golden Visa requires property worth AED 2 million, but lasts much longer, accepts off-plan and does not tie you to living in the UAE.
How PromptEstates helps
The 2-year visa needs a completed property. In PromptEstates you can choose projects by handover date and see at a glance which ones qualify for the Golden Visa. Confirm the conditions for a specific property with DLD.
Frequently asked questions
Does an apartment under construction qualify?
No. The 2-year visa requires a completed property with a title deed. You can apply after handover and registration.
Does an inexpensive studio qualify?
Yes, if you are the sole owner: since April 2026 there is no minimum value.
What if the home is mortgaged?
It qualifies, but you will need bank documents and a NOC.
How do I renew the visa?
Every 2 years through DLD services, as long as you still own the property.
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