Golden visa in Dubai 2026: rule changes and conditions for buying property
The golden visa in Dubai for buying property has been easier to obtain since February 2026: the requirement to pay at least 50% of the value has been abolished, and buyers of off-plan property and buyers with a mortgage can also apply for the visa. The minimum property value is still AED 2 million (roughly PLN 2 million, depending on the exchange rate).
What changed in 2026
Until February 2026 the investor had to have paid at least half of the property value, that is, about AED 1 million for the minimum threshold of AED 2 million. Now what counts is the property value entered in the title deed or in the Oqood register (when buying from a developer), not the amount already paid.
For off-plan buyers this means the application can be filed once the contract is registered with the Dubai Land Department (Oqood), without waiting for further instalments and handover of the unit. For a purchase with a mortgage, the full property price counts up to the AED 2 million threshold, not just the deposit; a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the bank is needed.
Conditions for obtaining the golden visa
The property must be worth at least AED 2 million according to the Dubai Land Department (several properties can also be combined). The visa is valid for 10 years and renewable, allows you to sponsor your spouse, children and parents and, according to available studies, does not require permanent residence in the UAE.
Example
When buying an apartment for AED 2.5 million with a 25% deposit, you can prepare the golden visa application straight away, instead of first having to pay 50% of the price.
What to remember
The golden visa does not change your tax status in Poland or guarantee a return on the investment. The rules change, so before buying check the current requirements (the competent bodies are the federal ICP authority and Dubai’s GDRFA) and consult a tax adviser.
See also: Dubai districts – a guide, apartments in Dubai, houses in Dubai and a comparison of Dubai and Spain. Have questions? Contact us. The buyer pays no commission when buying through World Residence.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum property value for the golden visa in Dubai?
The minimum value is AED 2 million, according to the Dubai Land Department’s valuation. It can be reached with one property or several combined.
Does buying from a developer (off-plan) give the right to a golden visa?
Yes. Since February 2026 the application can be filed once the contract is registered in the Oqood register, regardless of how many instalments have already been paid.
Can I get a golden visa when buying a property with a loan?
Yes. Up to the AED 2 million threshold the full property price counts, not the deposit. A certificate from the bank (NOC) is needed.
