How to get a residence permit in the UAE when buying property: ways and conditions for investors

The rapid development of the United Arab Emirates makes the country promising for financial investments of the business elite and investors. A residence permit in the UAE when buying property is one of the most convenient ways to acquire resident status, which provides the right to live, conduct business and enjoy the benefits of the tax system.

Residency in the UAE provides access to a prestigious jurisdiction, a stable economy and security. The exemption from personal income tax, the opportunity to organise international business and the secured infrastructure make the Emirates one of the best investment destinations. Let us consider all the rules, mandatory criteria and important details of residence permit application.

How to obtain a residence permit in the UAE

A residence permit in the UAE when buying a property is an affordable and convenient way to obtain the right to legal residence. The Emirates provides several possibilities for obtaining residency based on the amount of investment, type of property and visa validity period. Let’s look at three key ways of obtaining the right of residence in the UAE, their conditions and advantages.

Classic residence permit in the UAE for the purchase of property

A property investment of AED750,000 (~$204,000) or more qualifies for standard residency status for two years, renewable. A basic option chosen by investors interested in flexibility with minimal renewal requirements.

Basic Conditions:

• minimum investment threshold;
• full payment for the property (mortgage only with a down payment of 50% or more);
• property may be residential or commercial;
• residency period – 2 years, renewal is possible if the property is still owned.

The process of residence permit registration involves personal participation of the applicant at all key stages. The application can be submitted to the General Directorate of Residence and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA) or with the support of agencies specialising in immigration.

The benefits of standard residency include the ability to live in the UAE and use banking services, but this visa does not entitle you to work without a separate labour permit.

UAE resident visa for property for 10 years

For buyers interested in a long-term stay in the country, there is a UAE Golden Visa for property. It is issued for 10 years. This option offers more advantages compared to the standard visa.

Key Terms:

• minimum cost of the object – 2 000 000 AED (~545 000 $);
• possibility to apply for a housing loan (unlike a short-term residence permit);
• the right to rent out accommodation without losing residency status;
• possibility to obtain a residence permit in the UAE for a family (spouses, children, parents).

The option is convenient for investors who consider the purchase of real estate not only as an opportunity to obtain residency status, but also as a source of passive income. UAE Golden Visa holders are not obliged to stay in the country all year round, it is enough to visit the Emirates once every six months.

Peculiarities of residence permit in Dubai in case of purchasing a flat

The capital is considered the financial and investment centre of the region, making investment in Dubai real estate attractive.

Key points that are important to consider:

• the price of the flat must meet the minimum conditions for residence permit – from 750,000 AED;
• Dubai market offers ready-made properties and projects under construction, visa application is possible only after completion of construction;
• a residence permit entitles you to run a business, but not to official employment without a separate permit;
• Dubai’s peculiarity is the rapid appreciation of property prices, which makes buying a home a profitable investment.

To apply for a visa, you must be approved by the Dubai Land Department and go through the GDRFA registration process.

How to apply for a residence permit in the UAE for a family when buying a property

A depositor who has obtained a UAE residence permit when buying a property can legalise the residence of close relatives. This is relevant for standard short-term visas and for the Golden Visa.

Basic Conditions:

• Ability to sponsor spouse, children, parents;
• The applicant’s income must meet the requirements to support a family;
• is granted resident status for the same period of time as that of the principal visa holder.

This option is particularly popular with entrepreneurs who consider the Emirates as a place of permanent residence.

Which properties to choose to obtain a residence permit in the UAE

The choice of investment object for UAE residence permit when buying a property depends on the purpose of investment: personal residence, renting or commercial use. It is important to take into account liquidity, potential growth in value and convenience of residency registration.

Apartments in modern residential neighbourhoods

Offer developed infrastructure, convenient layouts and high rental demand.

Best neighbourhoods:

1. Dubai Marina – premium high-rises, sea views, yacht clubs.
2. Downtown Dubai is the city centre, close to the Burj Khalifa.
3. Business Bay – developed business infrastructure, office centres.

The minimum cost is 750,000 AED ($204,000).

Villas in gated communities

The choice for family living and long term investment. The villas provide space, comfort and privacy.

Popular neighbourhoods:

1. Palm Jumeirah – villas with private beaches.
2. Arabian Ranches is a neighbourhood for families with international schools.
3. Emirates Hills – luxury mansions overlooking golf courses.

For UAE Gold Visa, the investment amount should be from AED 2,000,000 ($545,000).

Commercial property

Investing in offices, retail space and hotel property yields returns of 10-12% per annum.

Prospective sites:

1. Offices in Business Bay and DIFC – sought after by international companies.
2. Shopping areas in Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates – high footfall.
3. Hotel apartments in Palm Jumeirah are a steady stream of tenants.

Conclusion

Registration of residence permit in the UAE when buying real estate is a reliable way to obtain residency status in a country with a developed economy and favourable offers for investors. Three main schemes for obtaining residency allow you to choose the most suitable option, taking into account your budget and goals.

Investing in UAE property is still a stable and reliable investment. Moreover, it not only ensures the right to live, but also guarantees a stable income. Given the rapid development of the region, such investments are becoming even more attractive to investors.