Dubai has removed the minimum property value requirement for its two-year investor visa, making the residency route more accessible to property buyers. The change took effect on May 17, 2026, and replaces the previous AED 750,000 minimum property threshold.
What Changed
Dubai previously required investors seeking a two-year residency visa through property ownership to meet a minimum property investment threshold of AED 750,000.
As of May 17, 2026, that minimum property value requirement has been removed.
The change means investors may qualify for the two-year investor visa through property ownership without being tied to a specific minimum property value, provided the other visa criteria are met.
Why the Change Matters
Removing the AED 750,000 floor lowers the entry barrier for property-linked residency in Dubai.
The change may increase demand across a wider range of real estate price points, including more accessible segments of the market.
For investors, the policy creates more flexibility in property selection. Instead of needing to buy a property above a fixed threshold, applicants can potentially choose a property that better matches their budget, investment strategy, or lifestyle needs.
Comparison With Other Residency Programs
Dubai’s change contrasts with a wider trend in some European residency by investment programs, where requirements have tightened.
Examples mentioned include:
- Portugal ending its Golden Visa real estate route
- Greece raising minimum investment thresholds
Against that background, Dubai’s policy shift makes its two-year investor visa more flexible compared with some European options that have become more restrictive.
Relevance for Global Mobility Planning
The UAE is described as increasingly relevant for high-net-worth individuals and families seeking tax diversification, a stable geopolitical environment, and residency options outside Europe.
The new Dubai rule may be especially relevant for applicants who previously found the AED 750,000 property threshold too high but still wanted a UAE residency route through real estate.
The change also fits broader demand from US, UK, and EU citizens looking for residency diversification and a “Plan B” amid global uncertainty.
Remaining Requirements
The removal of the property value minimum does not remove all visa requirements.
Applicants still need to meet other criteria, which may include:
- Demonstrating financial stability
- Passing due diligence checks
- Following Dubai government application procedures
- Meeting any other applicable investor visa requirements
The source article does not specify the full list of remaining requirements.
Real Estate Market Impact
The policy may support Dubai’s real estate market by making residency-linked property investment available across more price ranges.
It could particularly support lower or more accessible property segments that were previously below the AED 750,000 threshold.
For investors, the main practical effect is greater flexibility: the property purchase can be shaped around the applicant’s investment goals rather than a fixed minimum value.
Key Caveats
The change applies to the minimum property value requirement for Dubai’s two-year investor visa.
It does not mean every property purchase automatically qualifies for residency. Other criteria, due diligence, and application procedures still apply.
Applicants should also distinguish the two-year investor visa from longer-term UAE residency options and should confirm the current requirements before making a property purchase.
Source article: apexcapital.one
