Dubai Scraps the AED 750,000 Minimum for Its 2-Year Investor Visa
Dubai’s most accessible residency visa just got even easier to obtain. As of April 29, 2026, any sole owner of a completed residential property in Dubai qualifies — regardless of price. Here’s exactly what changed and what it means for you.
See What Changed ↓Old Rule vs. New Rule
The Dubai Land Department quietly but significantly updated the 2-year property investor visa eligibility through its Cube Centre platform on April 29, 2026.
❌ Old Rule (Before April 2026)
✅ New Rule (April 2026 Onwards)
All Dubai Property Residency Visas in 2026
Dubai offers three property-linked residency pathways. Here’s how they compare after the April 2026 update.
| Visa Type | Duration | Property Requirement | نوع ملک | Cost (approx.) | Family Included |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2-Year Investor Visa UPDATED | 2 years (renewable) | Sole owner: No minimum Joint owner: AED 400K each |
Completed residential (DLD title deed) | AED 10,545 (new) AED 8,215 (renewal) |
Spouse + children |
| 5-Year Retirement Visa | 5 years (renewable) | AED 2 million+ invested (property, savings, or pension) |
Completed residential | ~AED 3,700 | Spouse + children |
| 10-Year Golden Visa | 10 years (renewable) | AED 2 million+ paid (ready OR off-plan) |
Ready or off-plan residential | ~AED 4,000–6,000 | Spouse + children (all ages) + parents |
Sources: Dubai Land Department (Cube Centre), April 2026. Costs are indicative and may vary.
Who Does This Rule Change Help?
The removal of the AED 750,000 threshold opens the 2-year investor visa to a much wider pool of buyers. Here’s who gains the most.
Budget & Mid-Market Buyers
Buyers of studios and 1-bed apartments in JVC, JLT, or Arjan priced AED 400K–700K could not previously get the investor visa. They now qualify fully as sole owners.
First-Time International Investors
International buyers entering Dubai at lower price points can now secure residency from day one of ownership — without needing to spend AED 750,000 or more.
Buyers Who Already Own Property
Existing owners of completed Dubai properties below AED 750,000 who were previously ineligible can now apply for the 2-year visa immediately.
Families Seeking a Plan B
International families looking for a UAE residency option at a lower investment entry point now have a clear, affordable pathway through Dubai property.
Freelancers & Remote Workers
Those who want UAE residency to access banking, tax residency, or travel flexibility can now achieve it through a much smaller Dubai property investment.
Investors Building a Portfolio
Investors who purchased multiple lower-value properties as a yield play now get the added residency benefit — even on their lower-cost units held solely.
Which Dubai Properties Qualify Under the New Rule?
Under the old AED 750,000 threshold, a significant portion of Dubai’s completed residential stock was locked out of the investor visa. The April 2026 change opens the door to a whole tier of affordable, high-yield properties — particularly studios and one-bedroom apartments in Dubai’s mid-market communities.
What to Look For When Buying for the Visa
Not all properties under AED 750K are equal from a visa and investment standpoint. When choosing a property to qualify for the 2-year investor visa, prioritise:
- →Title deed status: Confirm the property has a final DLD title deed, not an Oqood interim registration. Ask your agent for the title deed number before purchase.
- →Sole ownership: If you’re buying with a partner or family member, structure the purchase carefully — joint ownership triggers the AED 400,000 per-person share rule.
- →Freehold zone: Only properties in designated freehold zones qualify. Most apartments marketed to international buyers in Dubai are freehold — but always confirm.
- →Rental yield: If you won’t live in it full-time, prioritise yield. Studios in JVC and DSO regularly achieve 7–10% gross — one of the highest yields in any global city.
What Still Matters — The Fine Print
The rule change is significant, but several conditions remain. Make sure you understand these before applying.
Must Be a Completed Property
The 2-year visa requires a fully completed residential property registered with the Dubai Land Department (DLD) under a title deed. Off-plan properties registered under Oqood do not qualify — you must wait until handover and final DLD registration.
Residential Freehold Only
The property must be a residential freehold unit — apartments, villas, and townhouses in designated freehold zones. Commercial properties and leasehold units are not eligible for this residency category.
Joint Ownership: AED 400,000 Per Person
The no-minimum rule applies only to sole owners. If two or more people jointly own a property, each co-owner must hold a share worth at least AED 400,000 to be eligible. The total property value must therefore be at least AED 800,000 for two joint applicants.
Golden Visa (AED 2M+) Is Still the Gold Standard
The 2-year visa is renewable but requires ongoing property ownership. The 10-year Golden Visa at AED 2 million gives longer tenure, covers parents alongside family, and qualifies for both ready and off-plan properties. For those spending AED 2M+, the Golden Visa remains the better option.
How to Get Your 2-Year Investor Visa
The process runs through the Dubai Land Department’s Cube Centre. Here are the steps from property ownership to visa in hand.
Own a Completed Property
Ensure your residential property is completed and registered with the DLD under a title deed in your name (or jointly, with your share valued at AED 400K+).
Apply via DLD Cube Centre
Submit your application through the Dubai Land Department’s Cube Centre platform. Documents required include your title deed, passport, and photos.
Medical Test & Emirates ID
Complete the mandatory medical fitness test and apply for your Emirates ID. Total cost for a new visa is approximately AED 10,545.
Visa Stamped & Active
Your 2-year residency visa is stamped in your passport. Renew every 2 years as long as you maintain ownership. Renewal costs approximately AED 8,215.
سوالات متداول
Everything you need to know about the April 2026 rule change.
Find Out If Your Property Qualifies
Whether you already own a Dubai property or are considering buying, our advisors can confirm exactly whether you qualify under the new rules and guide you through the application process.
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