Residency & Visa

Yes, Islamic mortgages are eligible for property investments under Dubai’s Golden Visa program. Investors can finance a qualifying property using Sharia-compliant home financing from a UAE bank, provided the total investment value meets the minimum threshold of AED 2 million (approx. USD 545,000). This enables property buyers to combine mortgage financing with the benefits of long-term residency in the UAE.

Detailed Explanation

The UAE government allows investors to obtain residency through property ownership, and financing via Islamic mortgages does not disqualify applicants. Instead, eligibility depends on the property’s market value at the time of purchase and the amount paid by the buyer. Key details include:

• Minimum Investment: Properties must be valued at AED 2,000,000 or more, regardless of whether purchased outright or through Islamic financing.
• Bank Financing: Investors may secure a mortgage from an Islamic bank, with the bank and buyer acting as co-participants in ownership until the financing is settled.
• Ownership Proof: Applicants must provide title deed registration from the Dubai Land Department (DLD) showing they meet the qualifying amount.
• Property Type: The property must be freehold, completed (not off-plan), and located in a designated investment area.
• Visa Duration: The Golden Visa linked to property investment is valid for 10 years and renewable as long as ownership criteria are met.

Practical Implications for Investors

For investors preferring Sharia-compliant financing, using an Islamic mortgage provides access to both property ownership and long-term residency. However, the bank will retain an interest in the property until the financing is settled, meaning the investor must maintain regular payments and ensure the financed share is considered when applying for the visa. Investors should also budget for additional costs such as DLD registration fees, Takaful premiums, and administrative charges.

Expert Insight & Conclusion

Islamic mortgages are fully compatible with Dubai’s Golden Visa framework, making them a flexible pathway for Muslim and non-Muslim investors seeking Sharia-compliant solutions. The critical factor is not the financing method, but ensuring the property value meets or exceeds AED 2 million and is correctly registered with DLD. With this in place, investors can secure a 10-year renewable residency while benefiting from ethical financing practices aligned with Sharia law.

To obtain a Golden Visa in Dubai through property investment, you must invest at least AED 2 million in real estate. The property can be ready or off-plan, provided it is purchased from an approved developer and registered with the Dubai Land Department (DLD). The Golden Visa grants a renewable 10-year residency, allowing investors and their families to live, work, and study in the UAE without the need for a national sponsor.

Eligibility Requirements

• Minimum Investment: AED 2 million in real estate (can be one property or multiple combined).
• Ownership Type: Property must be freehold and fully registered with the DLD.
• Mortgage Condition: If financed, at least AED 2 million of the property value must be paid to qualify.
• Investor Profile: Available to both UAE residents and non-residents purchasing approved properties.

Required Documents

• Valid passport and recent photographs.
• Property title deed issued by DLD.
• Proof of payment or mortgage clearance for the qualifying amount.
• Current UAE visa and Emirates ID (if already a resident).
• Medical fitness certificate from an approved UAE health center.
• Police clearance certificate (in some cases, requested during security checks).

Application Process

1. Property Purchase: Buy a qualifying property worth AED 2 million+ in Dubai.
2. DLD Registration: Ensure ownership is registered in your name with the Dubai Land Department.
3. Submit Application: Apply through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or via approved service centers.
4. Medical & Biometrics: Complete a health screening and biometric registration.
5. Visa Issuance: Once approved, a 10-year Golden Visa is granted, renewable upon meeting conditions.

Practical Implications for Investors

Holding a Golden Visa offers benefits such as long-term stability, ability to sponsor family members, and potential business advantages. Investors can also spend extended periods outside the UAE without losing residency status. Importantly, properties purchased under mortgage or off-plan must meet the AED 2 million threshold in paid value—not just total property price.

Expert Insight & Conclusion

The Golden Visa through property investment is one of the most accessible residency pathways in Dubai. It balances a relatively modest entry point (AED 2 million) with significant lifestyle and business benefits. For serious investors, ensuring proper DLD registration, mortgage compliance, and timely documentation are the keys to a smooth application process. Partnering with a registered real estate consultant or visa service provider can further streamline approvals and reduce delays.

Yes. In Dubai, property ownership can qualify you for a residence visa. Investors who purchase property worth AED 750,000 or more are eligible for a renewable 2-year residence visa. For investments valued at AED 2 million and above, buyers may qualify for the UAE’s prestigious 10-year Golden Visa, offering long-term residency benefits for themselves and their families.

Detailed Explanation

The link between property investment and residency in Dubai is designed to attract foreign investors and strengthen the emirate’s real estate sector. The rules are clear but vary based on property value and ownership type:

• 2-Year Investor Visa: Available for freehold properties with a minimum value of AED 750,000. The property must be completed (not off-plan) and ownership registered with the Dubai Land Department.
• 10-Year Golden Visa: Requires ownership of property (or combined properties) worth AED 2 million or more. The visa extends to immediate family members and can be renewed indefinitely.
• Joint Ownership: If jointly owned, each individual’s share must meet the minimum threshold to qualify for the visa.
• Financed Properties: Mortgaged properties may still qualify if at least AED 750,000 is paid toward the property value at the time of application.

These rules are regulated by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), ensuring a transparent and structured process for applicants.

Practical Implications for Buyers and Investors

For investors, property-linked visas offer more than just residency — they provide access to Dubai’s banking system, business setup opportunities, and lifestyle benefits such as healthcare, education, and mobility. Families benefit from security of residency without requiring employment sponsorship. From an investment perspective, securing a visa tied to property ownership enhances confidence in the market and provides tangible lifestyle advantages alongside potential rental yields and capital growth.

Expert Insight & Conclusion

Property-linked visas in Dubai represent a strategic pathway for investors seeking both returns and residency. While a 2-year visa offers flexibility for mid-level investors, the Golden Visa is particularly appealing to global high-net-worth individuals aiming for long-term residency in a tax-friendly, globally connected hub. Buyers should always verify eligibility criteria with RERA-approved brokers or directly with DLD to ensure compliance. For serious investors, purchasing property in Dubai is not only a wealth-building decision but also an opportunity to secure a future in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.