Dubai has enhanced its attractiveness to real estate investors after adopting more flexible criteria for obtaining a two-year real estate investor residency visa.
Under the latest updates issued by the "Cube Centre" of the Dubai Land Department (DLD) at the end of April 2026, a property owner can now apply for a two-year real estate investor residency visa without a minimum property value requirement.
This represents a significant shift compared to previous requirements which were tied to specific investment values, which were set at Dhs750,000.
In cases of joint ownership, the new regulations require that each owner's share in the property must not be less than Dhs400,000 to be eligible to apply for residency.
Applications are limited to properties located within Dubai, and a title deed issued only by Dubai is required.
To apply, a title deed is required, along with a debt letter or a no-objection letter from the bank if the property is mortgaged, or a statement of payments from the developer if the property is financed by the developer.
Additionally, a copy of a valid passport for more than six months, a previous Emirates ID card if available, a personal photo matching Emirates ID specifications, health insurance (comprehensive or regular) issued by an insurance company within the country or approved international insurance, and a good conduct certificate issued by Dubai Police and addressed to the DLD are needed.
This certificate should be issued via the Dubai Police smart application for residents, or by visiting the Rashid Port Police Station for non-residents.
The processing time for the transaction ranges between 10 and 15 working days, based on the completion date of all requirements and obtaining the necessary approvals.
The cost of issuing a new two-year real estate investor residency visa is approximately Dhs10,545, while renewal fees amount to Dhs8,215, and the cost of canceling it is Dhs1,239.