Dubai has scrapped the AED 750,000 minimum property value requirement for sole owners applying for the 2-year investor residence visa. For joint owners, the threshold is now AED 400,000 per investor.
Dubai's Land Department (DLD) has quietly but significantly updated the rules for the 2-year property investor residence visa. The previous minimum property value of AED 750,000 for sole owners has been removed entirely. The change was published through the Cube Centre, an entity affiliated with the Dubai Land Department, in late April 2026.
Old Rules vs. New Rules
- Previously (sole owner): minimum property value of AED 750,000 required
- Now (sole owner): NO minimum — you are the 100% owner of any completed property in Dubai
- Joint ownership: each co-investor must hold a share worth at least AED 400,000
- Off-plan / under construction: does NOT qualify — the property must be fully completed and registered with DLD
- Completed property with a mortgage: proof that at least 50% of the property value (or AED 375,000, whichever is lower) has been paid is required
What the 2-Year Investor Visa Gives You
- 2-year renewable UAE residence permit in your own name (self-sponsored)
- Right to live, work freely, and open a bank account in the UAE
- Emirates ID issued
- Sponsor your spouse, children under 18, and parents (on a separate 1-year permit)
- Processing time: 7–10 business days from complete document submission
- Government fees: approximately AED 12,000 (~USD $3,270) for the primary applicant
How This Differs from the UAE Golden Visa
The 2-year investor visa and the UAE Golden Visa are two separate programs. The Golden Visa requires a minimum AED 2,000,000 property investment and grants a 10-year renewable permit with no minimum stay requirement. The 2-year visa now has no minimum property value for sole owners, making it accessible to buyers of studios and apartments across Dubai's more affordable communities — including areas like Dubai International City, Jumeirah Village Circle, and others that offer 6–9% rental yields.
Why This Matters for Investors
Removing the AED 750,000 floor opens up the investor visa to a much wider pool of property buyers. Dubai transacted over AED 528 billion in real estate in 2025 — and this rule change is expected to drive further demand in the AED 400K–750K price band, particularly for buy-to-let investors who previously could not obtain residency through their property holdings. If you are considering Dubai real estate for residency purposes, ITC iLand's real estate division can advise on qualifying properties and guide you through the visa process.
