mail@continentalclub.ae

Dubai Golden and Investment Visa

How to Get UAE Residency

Dubai Golden and Investment Visa in 2025 — How to Get UAE Residency Through Property, Business or Deposit

The UAE does not have a classical “residence permit,” but instead offers a residency visa that provides the same benefits. The most well-known option is the 10-year UAE Golden Visa issued for investments. However, as of 2025, there are many other types of visas available — from 2 to 10 years — for property owners, business founders, top executives, freelancers, and retirees.

Main Types of Residency Visas in Dubai

Golden Visa through Property (from 2M AED, 10 years)
Investment Visa through Real Estate (from 750,000 AED, 2 years)
Bank Deposit Visa (2M AED on account, 10 years)
Business Owner Visa (startup or shareholding)
Executive Visa (salary from 30,000 AED)
Freelancer Visa (no employer needed)
Retirement Visa (age + income or assets)
Dependent Visa (for family or domestic staff)

10-Year Golden Residency Visa

Golden Visa Through Real Estate

Minimum investment: 2,000,000 AED
Multiple properties can be combined
Property can be off-plan (30% complete or more)
Must retain ownership for 2 years
Fees: from 10,250 AED

Golden Visa Through Bank Deposit

Deposit: 2M AED
Held for at least 2 years
Must pay 250,000 AED annually in taxes
Fees: from 4,650 AED

Golden Visa for Executives

Salary: 30,000 AED/month
Minimum 2 years of UAE work experience
Accredited university degree required
Fees: from 4,650 AED

Golden Visa for Talents

Eligible for scientists, artists, athletes, engineers, students
Process and fees vary; handled individually

2-Year Investment Visa Through Real Estate

Minimum investment: 750,000 AED
Property must be ready or at least 205,000 USD paid
Property must be in owner’s or spouse’s name
Selling the property cancels the visa
Fees: from 11,170 AED

Business and Freelancer Visas

Business Owner Visa (2 years)

Requires startup or company shareholding
Staff can receive work visas through the company

Golden Business Visa (up to 10 years)

Suitable for top executives, salary 30,000+ AED
Diploma or degree required

Freelancer Visa (5 years)

Requires freelance permit and license
No employer or sponsor required

UAE Retirement Visa (5 years)

Age: 55+
Financial criteria: income / property / deposit
Must include valid medical insurance
Fees: from 8,900 AED

How to Apply for an Investment or Golden Visa

Choose your visa type
Gather required documents
Travel to Dubai and undergo medical screening
Apply at Amer or ICA centers
Obtain Emirates ID
Visa valid for 2–10 years, renewable

Benefits of UAE Residency

Legally live and work in Dubai
Tax-free income and easier U.S./Schengen visa access
Access to healthcare, education, and banking
Obtain UAE driver’s license and own a car
Sponsor family and household staff
Use Esaad privilege discount card (up to 70%)
No exit restrictions (for golden visas only)