Dubai’s dynamic economy and business-friendly environment continue to attract investors and entrepreneurs from around the world. To support this growth, the UAE offers the Dubai Investor Visa for individuals who invest in or establish businesses in the mainland or free zones.
Below is a comprehensive overview of the visa, including eligibility requirements, documentation procedures, and associated fees.
Overview of the Investor Visa in Dubai
Also referred to as the Dubai Partner Visa, the investor visa is designed for foreign nationals who wish to start a business or invest in an existing company in Dubai. It allows investors to live and work in the UAE, as well as sponsor their family members.
If you’re planning to apply for an investor visa in Dubai, here are the main options available:
Property Investor Residency (Taskeen)
Issued through the Dubai Land Department (DLD) for property owners who meet the minimum property value requirement.
Golden Visa (10-year)
Available to investors in real estate, public or private companies, bank deposits, or those making a high tax contribution, subject to specific eligibility criteria.
Green Residency
Designed for investors and business partners, along with other eligible categories such as skilled professionals and freelancers.
DLD Property Investor Visa UAE Requirements
If you are a real estate investor owning a property in the UAE with a purchase value of AED 750,000 or more, you may qualify for a 2-year Property Investor Residence Visa.
According to Dubai Land Department (DLD) regulations, mortgaged properties are accepted provided that at least 50% of the property value has been paid or the paid amount equals AED 750,000. In such cases, a bank No-Objection Certificate (NOC) and a mortgage account statement are required.
Joint ownership between a husband and wife is permitted, as long as the property meets the minimum value requirement and a certified marriage certificate is submitted.
Please note that off-plan properties are not eligible for investor residency visas. The property must be a completed freehold unit.
For official details and application procedures, refer to the Investor Residence Application page on the Dubai Land Department (DLD) website.
Green Residency (Green Visa)
The Green Residency Visa is a renewable residence permit introduced to offer long-term stability in the UAE through a self-sponsored residency model, meaning no local sponsor is required.
The Green Residency is available to:
Skilled professionals
Freelancers and self-employed individuals
Investors and business partners
This visa category is designed for high-potential professionals and entrepreneurs seeking long-term residency and career growth in the UAE.
Investors and Business Partners
Under Dubai’s GDRFA Green Visa pathway for investors and business partners, applicants must meet the following criteria:
The investor or partner’s share capital, whether through company incorporation or capital contribution, must be no less than AED 1,000,000 paid-up (or the equivalent value in another currency).
The business must be registered under one of the approved legal structures, such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or a public/private joint-stock company.
This framework positions the Green Residency as an attractive “middle-ground” solution for investors seeking:
- A longer-term residency option without the need for frequent renewals
- A self-sponsored visa structure without immediately committing to the requirements of the Golden Visa.
Invest in a Business or Company
Are you planning to establish or invest in a business in Dubai, whether in a free zone or on the mainland? One of the most practical pathways is applying for a 3-year Investor Visa in Dubai.
This visa option is well-suited for entrepreneurs and investors who wish to:
- Start a company with a minimum capital of AED 72,000, or
- Invest the same amount in shares of an existing company.
One of the key advantages of setting up in a free zone is access to attractive business incentives, which may include exemptions or relief on Value-Added Tax (VAT), Income Tax, Corporate Tax, and Customs duties, depending on the specific zone and business activity. Free zone companies also benefit from 100% foreign ownership, offering full control of the business.
That said, it is important to note that:
VAT is regulated under Federal Decree Law No. 8 of 2017 and its Executive Regulations. Special VAT treatment in Designated Zones is limited and applies only to specific types of transactions.
Corporate Tax is governed by Federal Decree Law No. 47 of 2022. While a Qualifying Free Zone Person may benefit from a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income, this is subject to strict conditions outlined in the law and supporting Cabinet decisions, including Cabinet Decision No. 100 of 2023.
Services supplied in Designated Zones are generally treated in the same way as services supplied elsewhere in the UAE.
In addition, investors who establish or acquire shares in a free zone company may also apply for a Dubai Partner Visa, with the free zone acting as the sponsoring authority.
Please note that the exact application process and requirements may vary depending on the selected free zone and the nature of your business activity.
Apply for a UAE Golden Visa
Secure Your 10-Year Residency in Dubai
The UAE government offers a long-term Golden Visa program, including a dedicated residency option for property investors. This visa allows eligible investors and their families to live, work, and study in the UAE with full residency benefits.
Looking to unlock a 10-year residency visa in Dubai through investment? With a qualifying property investment, you can access one of the world’s most attractive long-term residency programs. While a minimum investment threshold applies, multiple flexible pathways are available to meet the criteria.
Documents Required for an Investor Visa in Dubai Application
Securing an investor visa dubai requires the submission of specific documentation, which varies according to the selected investment route – whether through real estate, business ownership, or retirement investment.
Below is an overview of the main document categories required for each pathway:
Investment in a Company – Required Documents
- Copy of your passport
- Recent personal photograph with a white background
- Copy of Dubai Trade Licence
- Bank statement for the last three months
- Partnership contract between you and the local sponsor
- Immigration Establishment Card
- Memorandum of Association (showing company capital of AED 72,000)
Property or Golden Visa – Required Documents
- Property title deed
- Copy of your passport
- Copy of your current UAE visa
- Six passport-size photographs
- Good Conduct Certificate
- Bank statement
- Valid health insurance
- Recent utility bill
Important Update on Company Ownership in Dubai
Previously, a UAE national or an authorised government liaison agent was required to hold the majority shareholding. However, recent regulatory changes now allow 100% foreign ownership for companies established in the Dubai mainland.
How to Apply for an Investor Visa in Dubai?
Ready to begin your investment journey in Dubai? Securing an investor visa is a straightforward and well-regulated process. Below is a step-by-step guide based on Dubai’s official investment visa requirements.
Property Investor or Golden Visa Application
Submit your original passport, a copy of your current UAE visa (if applicable), and the original property title deed to the Dubai Land Department (DLD).
Request a reference letter from Dubai Police.
Once the DLD issues the reference letter, use it to obtain a Certificate of Good Conduct.
Apply for a trade license through the Dubai Economic Department (DED) using the collected documents.
Submit all documents – including the trade license – to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) to complete your Dubai investor visa application.
Investor Visa Through Business Ownership
Applying for a UAE investor visa via business investment is fast and convenient. Applications can be processed at any Amer Centre in Dubai, including:
- Dubai Festival City
- Al Karama
- Ibn Battuta Mall
- Al Jafiliya
- Al Quoz
Secure Your Investor Visa in Dubai and Unlock a World of Business Opportunities. For more details, contact us now!