Dubai is becoming an increasingly popular destination for both investors and those seeking a new home. One of the most frequently asked questions is: Can you obtain residency in Dubai by purchasing property? The answer is yes, but you need to understand the specific conditions and options. It’s important to note that residency is an opportunity, not an obligation.

How to Get Residency in Dubai?


Residency in Dubai is not granted automatically, but can be applied for in several different ways:

  • Employment-based – if you secure a job in Dubai and your employer is willing to sponsor you, you will receive a work visa and residency.
  • Company formation – you can establish your own company and employ yourself. The minimum setup cost is around €7,000, plus an annual license fee (approx. €5,000–€7,000) and accounting/reporting costs. Without actual business activity, this option can be too expensive and impractical.
  • Golden Visa – available through real estate investment (details below).
  • Tourist visa – a tourist visa allows you to stay for up to 90 days, but a residency permit is required for longer stays.

A residency visa is essential for opening a bank account, working, and accessing many local services.

Residency Through Property Purchase: When and How?


The Dubai government offers an investment residency visa if you buy property under certain conditions:

  1. Property worth at least AED 750,000 (~€190,000)
    You can receive a 2-year residency visa, which is renewable every two years as long as you continue to own the property.
    Application is only possible once the property is completed and a Title Deed (official ownership document) has been issued.
    You can also sponsor your spouse and children under this visa.
  2. Property worth at least AED 2 million (~€500,000) – Golden Visa
    You can apply for a 10-year residency visa (Golden Visa).
    You do not need to wait until the property is completed — a signed contract, paid initial deposit, and 4% registration fee are sufficient.
    This visa can also include your spouse, children, parents, and domestic workers.

Important: If the property is co-owned, each individual must meet the minimum value threshold independently – either AED 2 million or AED 750,000, depending on the visa type. For example, if a couple wants both to receive a 10-year visa and the property is split 50/50, the total value must be at least AED 4 million.

When Does It Make Sense to Apply for a Visa Through Real Estate?

  • If you want to live in Dubai but do not plan to work full-time.
  • If you are an investor looking to grow your assets while enjoying a tax-free living environment.
  • If you plan to move to Dubai with your family, the property visa allows you to include close relatives under your residency.

Dubai Residency via Property – Is It Worth It?

If your goal is to live or invest in Dubai, purchasing real estate is a highly effective and flexible way to obtain residency. Whether it’s a 2-year or 10-year visa, the tax-free environment and growing real estate market make this an attractive option for both investors and families.