The United Arab Emirates Golden Visa remains open in 2026, with several refinements to the property route and a wider set of qualifying categories.
Information, not advice. Figures are indicative and current as of June 2026. Always confirm the present rules with the official program authority and a licensed professional before you act.
In February 2026 the federal authorities removed the earlier requirement that a property investor pay at least half of the property value, or a set minimum amount, before qualifying. As of 2026, mortgaged and off plan property can count toward the AED 2 million property route, provided the value certified by the relevant emirate land department reaches that figure. A bank or developer letter of no objection is generally requested.
The list of qualifying categories has also broadened. Alongside investors, the programme now references skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, students, nurses, teachers, content creators and other contributors. Confirm the current category list and its exact conditions with the official authority, since the wording is updated frequently.
The headline real estate route asks for property with a total value of at least AED 2 million, proven by a letter from the land department of the relevant emirate. The Golden Visa is a 10 year renewable residency. Other routes exist for talent, public investment and business owners, each with its own conditions set by the authority. Verify the figure and the accepted proof of value before you act.
Category rules and documentary standards continue to shift. Before you act, confirm the qualifying amount, the accepted proof of value, and any health insurance or Emirates ID steps directly with the ICP and the relevant emirate land department.
Yes. As of June 2026 the programme is open. The property route and the list of qualifying categories were refined during 2025 and 2026. Confirm the current detail with the ICP.
The federal real estate route references property with a total value of at least AED 2 million, certified by the relevant emirate land department. Verify the current figure and accepted proof with the official authority.
As of 2026, mortgaged and off plan property can count toward the AED 2 million route if the certified value reaches that figure and the required bank or developer letter is provided. Confirm with the land department.
Information, not advice. Figures are indicative and current as of June 2026. Always confirm the present rules with the official program authority and a licensed professional before you act.
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