UAE Residency Visa by Investment in 2025: Complete Guide

Dubai and other emirates continue to attract investors from around the world by offering favorable conditions for obtaining a residency visa through real estate investment. In 2025, the rules have slightly changed, and we’ve gathered the most up-to-date information to help you apply for your visa without mistakes and save time.

Current Conditions for Obtaining a Residency Visa in Dubai in 2025

1. Golden Visa (10 years)

One of the most beneficial options for long-term residency in the UAE.

Requirements:

• Investment in real estate from AED 2 million (≈ $545,000).
• In privileged projects (e.g., Dubai Hills, Palm Jumeirah) — from AED 5 million.
• Medical insurance with coverage of at least AED 500,000.
• Proof of legal income source (bank statements for 6 months).

Benefits:
✔ Long-term residency (10 years)
✔ Option to include the entire family (spouse, children, parents)
✔ Visa-free access to 175+ countries

2. Standard Investor Visa (3 years)

A more affordable option for those who want to obtain residency with a lower investment.

Requirements:

• Investment in freehold property from AED 750,000 (≈ $204,000).
• Proof of income of at least AED 15,000/month (new requirement from 2025).

Limitations:

• Family inclusion is limited to spouse and children only (parents cannot be added).

Step-by-Step Visa Application Process in 2025

1. Choose a Property

• Only approved projects are eligible.
• Office units below AED 1 million are not allowed.

Recommended areas for Golden Visa:

• Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa area)
• Palm Jumeirah
• Dubai Marina
• Sobha Hartland (special conditions)

2. Prepare Your Documents

• New Application Form 2025
• Apostilled police clearance certificates (from all countries where you’ve lived for more than 6 months)
• Bank statements from the past 6 months (to verify income)

3. Submission and Processing Time

• Fast-track option: 7 working days (extra AED 2,500)
• Standard processing: 28 days

❗ Important: Starting in 2025, all payments must be made through the official GDRFA portal (cash is not accepted).

Top 5 Mistakes When Applying for a Visa in 2025

• Buying in installments without GDRFA approval → leads to rejection
• Ignoring new fees (e.g., AED 1,200 for biometrics)
• Choosing a non-accredited property (not all freehold zones qualify)
• Late payment (even a 3-day delay → automatic rejection)
• Incorrect health insurance policy (coverage must be at least AED 500K)

Real Cases in 2025

✅ Successful Case:
A family from Kazakhstan received their Golden Visa in just 9 days after purchasing an apartment in Sobha Hartland (AED 1.8 million).

❌ Case Leading to Rejection:
An investor from Russia missed a payment deadline by 3 days → had to reapply (+28 days of waiting).

Comparison of Residency Programs in 2025

Expert Opinion

"In 2025, the checks on income sources have become stricter. Previously, 3 months of statements were enough, now they require 6. There are also more rejections due to incorrectly prepared documents — it's best to consult before submitting."
— Malika Orazbayeva, Regional Manager

Conclusion

Obtaining a residency visa in Dubai in 2025 has become more complex but is still accessible with the right approach.

What to Do:

• Choose an approved property (check on DLD)
• Prepare your documents (especially income verification)
• Apply via GDRFA (no cash payments!)

Need assistance? Leave an inquiry and we’ll find the best option for your budget!