Property in Dubai with residence permit
Properties in Dubai, UAE, attract investors and foreign buyers worldwide. The metropolis is ideal for year-round holidays, relocation and investment. Foreigners are drawn to its comfortable accommodation, excellent business opportunities, high-quality medical services and education. The city offers a wide range of activities, from shopping in its malls to water sports along the coast. Additionally, investing in real estate for sale in Dubai provides the opportunity to obtain a residence permit for both you and your family.
The housing is characterised by a high level of comfort, with features including spacious, well-designed layouts, high ceilings and high-quality finishes. Many complexes also offer additional amenities such as fitness centres, swimming pools, spas, recreational and barbecue areas, as well as dedicated parking spaces.
The property market offers a variety of options, from compact apartments to luxury villas with private pools and gardens. Panoramic windows in high-rise buildings provide stunning views of the coastline or cityscapes. In recent years, the metropolis has been actively developing green areas and park territories.
Foreign buyers most often purchase housing in the following locations:
- Dubai Marina: One of the city’s most prestigious and popular neighbourhoods, known for its vibrant atmosphere, beaches, yacht clubs and an extensive selection of restaurants, shops and entertainment options;
- Downtown Dubai: The centre of business and cultural life, blending modern architecture with renowned landmarks, shopping and entertainment venues. This area hosts a range of cultural events, including exhibitions, concerts and festivals;
- Palm Jumeirah: An artificial island offering luxury villas and apartments with private beaches and panoramic views of the Persian Gulf. The area is home to world-class hotels, luxury spa resorts and a diverse selection of restaurants;
- Jumeirah Beach Residence: Ideal for those who prefer seaside living, this area offers sandy beaches, a lively promenade and a wide variety of cafês, restaurants and shops. Making it a popular destination for tourists;
- Business Bay: A dynamic commercial and residential hub with modern high-rises and advanced infrastructure. Business Bay is favoured by business professionals and investors for its proximity to Downtown Dubai;
- Jumeirah Lake Towers: A peaceful and welcoming district with well-developed infrastructure, green areas and picturesque views of artificial lakes. It’s conveniently located near active business centres and major transport routes.
Residence permit in UAE by buying property in Dubai
Purchasing property in the metropolis enables buyers to obtain a long-term visa, which can be renewed an unlimited number of times. The applicant may also apply for a residence permit for their spouse and children.
To obtain a residence permit in UAE through property investment, the buyer must meet certain criteria:
- Be over 18 years of age;
- Have no criminal record;
- Be free from dangerous infectious diseases;
- Provide proof of financial solvency and a legal source of income.
The minimum for property prices in Dubai to obtain a two-year residence permit is AED 750,000 (USD 204,000).
The property can either be an apartment in a complex or a villa. Importantly, the property must remain under the investor's ownership for the duration of the visa.
If a foreigner purchases one or more properties for AED 2 million (USD 544,500), they become eligible to apply for a five-year golden visa.
A residence permit obtained through the purchase of a flat or villa in the UAE offers the following advantages:
- Visa-free entry and exit: Residents can freely enter and exit the UAE without needing a visa;
- Favourable tax regime: The UAE does not impose personal income tax or capital gains tax;
- Access to medical treatment and education: Residence permit holders have access to the services of clinics and educational institutions;
- Banking benefits: Residents can open various types of accounts in local banks, obtain loans on favourable terms and access a range of financial products;
- Business opportunities: The country has multiple favourable zones where foreign nationals can establish companies with 100% ownership, enjoy simplified business registration and benefit from zero VAT on exports;
- Eligibility for an international driving licence: Residents can apply for an international driving licence.
Investment real estate in Dubai
One of the main reasons for the popularity of properties in Dubai for investment is the city’s strategic location and well-developed infrastructure. The metropolis serves as a central hub for business, tourism and trade in the Middle East. With the growth of the tourism industry and an increasing expat population, the demand for rental accommodation remains consistently high, creating a favourable environment for generating passive income from rental properties. In Q1 2024, rental yields averaged 7.66% for flats and 5.59% for villas.
In recent years, there has been an upward trend in the prices of villas and apartments in the UAE. In Q1 2024, housing costs in the metropolis rose by 6.12%. Various forecasts anticipate that prices will continue to rise due to economic growth, infrastructure development and new programmes aimed at attracting investors and foreign professionals.
Price growth is driven not only by high demand but also by limited supply, making the market particularly attractive to investors. Although the city is actively developing new projects, the pace of construction has not always kept up with rising interest.
Yes, a foreigner can buy property for sale in Dubai in full ownership within government-designated areas known as freehold zones. Leasehold purchases are also available.
A foreigner can buy property in Dubai and get a residence permit if the cost of the property is AED 750,000 (USD 204,000) or more.
The minimum property investment required is AED 750,000 (USD 204,000).
The most favourable areas to buy a home include Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Beach Residence and Business Bay.