Dubai Scraps Minimum Property Investment for Two-Year Residency Visa

Dubai has eliminated the minimum investment threshold for real estate buyers seeking a residency permit, a move that opens the door for a wider range of property owners. The updated rules, posted on the Dubai Land Department’s digital platform DLD Cube, mark a significant shift in the emirate’s visa policy.

Under the new guidelines, anyone who is the sole owner of a property in Dubai can now apply for a two-year residency visa without any requirement for a minimum property value. Previously, investors had to meet a set price floor to qualify.

For properties with multiple owners, the rules remain slightly stricter. Each co-owner must hold a share worth at least 400,000 UAE dirhams (approximately $109,000) to be eligible for the visa.

The change, confirmed by DLD on May 1, is expected to attract more middle-income buyers and smaller investors to Dubai’s real estate market. Officials hope it will further boost the city’s reputation as a global hub for both living and investment.

Real estate agents in the city report a surge in inquiries since the announcement, particularly from buyers who previously found the minimum investment barrier too high. The new policy simplifies the process for those looking to secure long-term residency through property ownership.