The Path to United Arab Emirates Citizenship by Investment

The Path to United Arab Emirates Citizenship by Investment

UAE passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 170 countries, including Schengen Area countries, the United Kingdom, Japan, and much of Southeast Asia.

$400,000+
Investment amount (Real estate or business setup)
1-3 months
Obtaining period
3-5 years
Investment return

UAE Golden Visa Program – Residency by Investment in Dubai

The United Arab Emirates, particularly Dubai, offers a long-term residency system known as the Golden Visa, enabling foreign investors, entrepreneurs, and professionals to live, work, and grow their businesses in the country without the need for a national sponsor. While UAE citizenship is only granted under exceptional circumstances, the Golden Visa provides similar benefits for up to 10 years, with renewal options.

Dubai's investment-friendly ecosystem, tax benefits, and luxury lifestyle make it one of the most attractive destinations for high-net-worth individuals and global investors.

Benefits of Dubai's Golden Visa


1
10-Year Renewable Residency
Enjoy stability and long-term planning without frequent visa renewals.


2
No Sponsor Required
You can live and work in the UAE independently of an employer or local sponsor.


3
Tax Advantages
0% personal income tax and no capital gains tax make Dubai ideal for wealth preservation.


4
Family Coverage
Spouse, children, and even parents can be included in the same visa.


5
Business Freedom
Golden Visa holders can fully own businesses in Dubai without a local partner (100% foreign ownership allowed in most sectors).


6
Global Connectivity
Dubai is a hub between Europe, Asia, and Africaβ€”with one of the busiest and best-connected airports in the world.

170+ visa-free countries with a UAE passport

Asia
Japan
Singapore
Thailand
+21 Countries
Africa
Botswana
Morocco
Seychelles
+42 Countries
Europe
Albania
Moldova
Montenegro
+16 Countries
Oceania
Fiji
Micronesia
Vanuatu
+6 Countries
Caribbean
Bahamas
Barbados
Haiti
+8 Countries
Americas
Argentina
Brazil
Chile
+15 Countries

Who can get UAE residency?

01

Investor

Applicants who invest in real estate, business, or startups in the UAE may qualify for long-term residency visas, such as the 2-year renewable investor visa or the 10-year Golden Visa.

02

Spouse

The investor's spouse can be added to the residency visa as a dependent, enjoying residency rights and access to local services in the UAE.

03

Children

Children under 18 can be sponsored under the main applicant's visa, giving them legal residency status and access to international schools and healthcare in the UAE.

Key Routes to Long-Term Residency in Dubai

Property Investment Visa – AED 750,000+

Foreigners who invest in real estate in Dubai are eligible for long-term residency depending on the value of their property.

Key Highlights:
– For AED 750,000+ (~$204,000), 2-year residency visa (renewable).
– For AED 2 million+ (~$545,000), 10-year Golden Visa (renewable).
– Properties must be completed (not under construction) and either fully paid or meet mortgage equity criteria.
– Multiple properties may be combined to meet the threshold.

Company Setup – Investor/Partner Visa

By registering a company in Dubai mainland or free zones, foreign nationals can apply for a residency visa.

Key Highlights:
– Valid for 2–3 years depending on the free zone or mainland rules.
– Requires a physical office address and licensed activity.
– Minimum capital typically starts from AED 50,000+.
– Ideal for startups, trading, holding, or consultancy companies.

Golden Visa – Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurs with innovative or high-potential businesses can apply for a 10-year Golden Visa.

Requirements:
– UAE-registered company with proven success or potential.
– Endorsement from a UAE-accredited incubator or Ministry of Economy.

Golden Visa – High-Net-Worth Individuals

Individuals who invest AED 2 million or more in real estate, companies, or approved funds may qualify for a 10-year Golden Visa.

Note: Funds must not be loaned and should be held for the required duration.

Retirement Visa – Age 55+

Retirees aged 55+ can apply for a 5-year renewable visa if one of the following is met:

– AED 1 million in savings or investments
– AED 20,000 monthly income
– Property worth AED 1 million

UAE Citizenship (Rare Cases)

UAE citizenship is granted selectively by presidential decree to individuals with exceptional contributions in science, medicine, art, or innovation.

– Dual citizenship is permitted.
– Reserved for highly distinguished individuals.

Estimated Investment & Visa Costs

Residency Type Minimum Investment Visa Validity
Property Investor Visa AED 750,000 (~$204,000) 2 years (renewable)
Golden Visa via Property AED 2 million (~$545,000) 10 years
Business/Startup Visa AED 50,000+ 2–3 years
Investor Golden Visa AED 2 million+ 10 years
Retirement Visa AED 1 million+ / income 5 years

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