The UAE has simplified the process of obtaining a “golden visa” for real estate investors: the key criterion remains the cost of the property from 2 million dirhams, while in Dubai it is possible to apply on the basis of a mortgage purchase if there is a letter from the bank and confirmation of payments, according to the description of the Dubai Land Department (DLD) service for applying for a 10-year investor residence visa.
According to the DLD’s terms and conditions, the applicant must own a property (or several properties) with a total value of at least AED 2 million, and the property may be mortgaged – a letter from the bank stating that there are no objections is required, as well as an indication of the amount paid and the outstanding balance.
The changes came into effect on February 20, 2026, and expand the pool of applicants to include buyers using mortgages and installment plans, as well as buyers of off-plan properties.
