Quick facts:
- Validity: 10 years, renewable;
- Minimum investment: AED 2,000,000 (~USD 545,000) in real estate;
- Processing time: typically 2–4 weeks;
- No sponsor required;
- Mortgage accepted if at least 50% is paid;
- Online or agency-based application allowed.
Who is eligible:
- Real estate investors with AED 2M+ property;
- Entrepreneurs and business owners;
- Skilled professionals (e.g. doctors, scientists, IT experts);
- Top-performing students;
- Humanitarian contributors and creatives;
- Foreigners nominated by UAE entities.
Key benefits:
- 10-year renewable residency;
- Sponsor family and domestic staff;
- Stay outside UAE without losing residency;
- No income tax;
- Full business and banking access;
- Family may retain visa even if main holder dies.
- Ready or off-plan properties;
- Registered with Dubai Land Department (DLD);
- Owned outright or mortgaged (≥50% paid);
- Resale and developer deals are both acceptable.
Application steps:
- Purchase eligible property;
- Secure DLD permit;
- Apply via ICP or GDRFA portal;
- Medical test + biometrics;
- Get Emirates ID and residency stamp.