The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has become one of the most desirable destinations for expatriates, investors, and entrepreneurs who are looking to secure long-term residency. Booming real estate market, tax-free economy, and prime global destination, the UAE is not only about luxury living but also provides a route to residency through investment.
Beginning this year through 2026, the UAE continues to improve and reinforce its UAE residency-by-investment rules for eligible investors. Whether you’re an Indian NRI, a businessperson, or a global citizen considering permanent residency in one of the world’s most dynamic economies, this guide covers everything you need to know about the minimum investment required for UAE residency in 2026.
Understanding UAE Residency through Investment
The UAE government has positioned itself as a global investment destination by offering long-term residency permits linked to property and business investments. Unlike the old-fashioned visa system, where you are tied to working for an employer, the new investor visa gives you freedom to live, work, and own your assets in the UAE as an independent expat.
There are several options to obtain UAE residency via investment:
- Real Estate Investment Visa
- Investors Golden Visa
- Business/Startup Investment Visa – for non-EU international applicants who invest in a new business or start an enterprise to gain entry.
- Retirement Visa – for investor retirees aged 55 and over.
Each category comes with a minimum investment period and level of benefits.
Minimum Investment Needed to Get UAE Residency in 2026
As per recent announcements from the UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) and Dubai Land Department (DLD), here’s a breakdown of the minimum investment required:
| Residency Type | Minimum Investment (AED) | Key Requirements | Visa Duration |
| 2-Year Property Investor Visa | AED 1 million+ | Units must be vacant & fully paid | 2 years |
| 5-Year Property Visa | AED 2 million+ | May include joint ownership | 5 years |
| 10-Year Golden Visa (Property Investor) | AED 2 million+ | Property must be owned, not mortgaged | 10 years |
| Business/Startup Visa | AED 500,000–1 million+ | Invest in a UAE startup or company | 5 years |
| Retirement Visa | AED 1 million+ or monthly income of AED 20,000 | Investors aged 55+ | 5 years |
Note: AED 2 million remains the milestone for longer-term Golden Visas in 2026. The property must be wholly owned by the investor, either personally or jointly.
Most Popular Way to Invest is in Property
Real estate is still the most secure and popular route to UAE residency.
Why:
- High returns on investment in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
- No property tax or capital gains tax.
- Property visas allow family sponsorship.
- Investors can live in, rent, or resell assets without restriction.
Eligible Property Types:
- Ready-to-move-in properties with completed possession.
- Valued at AED 1 million (short-term visas) or AED 2 million+ (long-term).
- Off-plan properties only qualify after completion.
- Title Deed in the investor’s name is compulsory.
How to Get UAE Residency by Investment
You can get UAE residency by investing in property or starting a company. The easiest and most popular option is the UAE Golden Visa. You can get it by investing at least AED 2 million in real estate or by setting up a business with the required capital. If you want a lower-cost option, you can get a 2-year investor visa by buying a property worth at least AED 750,000.
There is also a simple 2-year visa that needs no big investment and starts from around AED 3,500. These options give you legal residency, allow you to live in the UAE, and make it easier to work, invest, and enjoy the country’s benefits.
Steps to Get UAE Residency Through Investment
A: Select Emirate and Investment Type
Pick where you want to invest Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Ras Al Khaimah.
B: Finalize the Investment
Buy property or start a business. Register the sale with the Dubai Land Department (DLD) or relevant regulatory body.
C: Gather Required Documents
- Passport and valid entry visa
- Title Deed (proof of ownership)
- Bank statements or proof of payment
- NOC if applicable
- Utility bill or Ejari contract
D: Apply for the Residency Visa
Submit your application through GDRFA, ICP portal, or DLD Investor Service Center.
E: Attend Medical Examination and Biometric Appointment
Fitness test, medical check, and Emirates ID registration are mandatory.
F: Visa Issuance
Investor residency visa is stamped in your passport, valid for 2, 5, or 10 years depending on the investment.
Advantages of Holding a UAE Residency by Investment
Investing in property or a business provides more than just an address.
Key Benefits:
- Long stay rights – no job sponsorship needed.
- Family-based – spouse, children, parents included.
- Tax-free economy – 0% personal income and capital gains tax.
- Business freedom – unrestricted ownership and operations.
- High quality of life – healthcare, education, infrastructure.
- Global mobility – travel in and out of UAE freely.
2026 Changes & Investor Insights
- Mortgaged properties eligible if paid-up value ≥ AED 1 million.
- Market value (not purchase price) determines eligibility.
- Co-ownership allowed; minimum share AED 1 million.
- Only freehold property qualifies.
- Ownership must be maintained during visa period.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying off plan expecting immediate visa.
- Using unlicensed brokers.
- Ignoring mortgage covenants.
- Letting visas expire.
- Submitting incomplete documents.
Business and Startup Investment Visas
- Minimum AED 500,000–1 million investment.
- 100% ownership in many free zones.
- Qualifies for 5-year renewable residency.
Retirement Visa for Investors
- Over 55 years old: property worth AED 1 million+, AED 1 million in bank, or monthly income of AED 20,000.
- 5-year visa, renewable.
UAE vs. Other Residency-by-Investment Programs
| Country | Minimum Investment (USD) | Residency Duration | Key Advantage |
| UAE | $550,000+ | 2–10 years | Tax-free income, world-class infrastructure |
| Portugal | $250,000 | 5 years | EU access, Schengen travel |
| Greece | $250,000 | 5 years | Schengen visa-free access |
| Singapore | $1 million+ | 5 years | Business powerhouse |
| UK (Innovator Visa) | $250,000+ | 3 years | Access to EU & global markets |
The UAE remains the most secure, transparent, and investor-friendly residency-by-investment destination in 2026.
Expert Insights for 2026 Investors
- Target Dubai and Abu Dhabi for long-term capital appreciation.
- Consider Business Bay, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), Downtown Dubai, and Saadiyat Island.
- Verify properties on Dubai REST App or DLD.
- Hire lawyers for title deed transfers.
- Stay updated with ICP and DLD policy changes.
Conclusion
With clear regulations, high returns, and investor-friendly policies, the UAE continues to be one of the most secure residency-by-investment destinations in 2026.
Investments as low as AED 1 million can open doors to residency, lifestyle, and financial growth. Invest smart, verify eligibility, and start your journey toward UAE residency today.
