Dubai Investor Visa Requirements Explained: Eligibility, Documents & Process
With a thriving economy and a high standard of living, it's no surprise that Dubai is high on the list of desirable cities for entrepreneurs and business professionals to live and work in. Family-orientated developments and superb schools, shopping, entertainment and dining mean that life in Dubai achieves an enviable balance of work and leisure. If this dream lifestyle is one you aspire to, you will need a visa to gain Dubai residency. The easiest way to achieve this is through a Dubai Investor Visa.
In this article, we’ll explore the details of UAE investor visa requirements, including who is eligible for a visa and what the benefits are. If you’ve always wanted to live in one of the most dynamic cities in the world, we’re here to show you how you can make that dream a reality.
What Is the Dubai Investor Visa and Who Is It For?
The Dubai Investor Visa is designed to allow individuals who invest in Dubai businesses to live and work in the UAE, as well as sponsoring family members to join them. There are two main categories:
- Business (Partner) Investor Visa: For entrepreneurs setting up or investing in a UAE company.
- Property Investor Visa: For individuals who invest in Dubai real estate, including eligibility for the Golden Visa.
What Are the Types of Investor Visas?
There are two main types of investor visa – a 2-year and a 10-year option. Each has specific investment requirements. The renewable two-year option is perfect for entrepreneurs or partners in Dubai businesses; typically set-up costs will be between AED 12,500 and AED 25,000. The 10-year property investor Golden Visa needs an investment of AED 2m or more but the property can be mortgaged under certain circumstances.
How Do You Get an Investor Visa in Dubai?
Property Investors can take the 10-year Golden Visa Route if you own property worth at least AED 2 million in Dubai (off-plan or completed), provide proof of ownership and equity (even if property is mortgaged.) You don’t need a sponsor for this application but you will need to submit a police clearance certificate and a reference letter from the Dubai Land Department. You can also explore one of Ghaf Woods’ property visa-compatible projects for a seamless investment-to-residency experience.
The other option for Business Investors is to apply for a 2-year renewable investor visa. You’ll need to set up or invest in a Dubai-based business, get a trade licence from the Dubai Economic Department and provide a Memorandum of Association (for partnerships) or a Local Service Agent Agreement (for sole proprietorships).
There is no fixed capital investment threshold, but you must demonstrate business activity and pay related fees (typically AED 12,500–25,000)
What Are The Benefits of a Dubai Investor Visa?
As well as allowing you to live for up to 10 years in this beautiful city (depending on the type of visa you get), a Dubai Investor Visa also permits you to sponsor family members so they can join you as UAE residents. It also makes travelling between the different Emirates easier and allows you to apply for a UAE Golden Visa and longer-term residency in Dubai. Golden Visa holders can also stay outside the UAE for more than 6 months without having to worry about your visa being cancelled.
Required Documents for Your Dubai Investor Visa Application
You will need to produce a folder of documents to apply for an Investor Visa, including your passport, financial records, and all the relevant property documents if you are choosing to apply for an investor visa with a property purchase. You will also need:
- A copy of your Memorandum of Association (for partnership) or Local Service Agent Agreement (for sole proprietorship)
- Company establishment card copy
- Cancellation document of your existing employment or Dubai residence visa
- A copy of any existing visit or tourist visa
- A police clearance certificate and Dubai Land Department reference letter are required for any property-based Golden Visa applications.
Dubai Investor Visa Cost
So how much will all this cost? The cost of a 2-year investor visa in Dubai can vary depending on the chosen documentation and procedures. For example, a property investor visa starts from AED 12,000. You will also need to factor in fees and legal costs, so the initial outlay can be considerably more.