In a move set to energize the nation’s property sector, the UAE government has just announced a significant update to its popular Golden Visa program. For international investors with an eye on Dubai or Abu Dhabi, this is monumental news. The minimum property investment required to obtain the coveted 10-year residency has been lowered from AED 2 million to just AED 1.8 million. This adjustment makes the dream of long-term residency in the Emirates more attainable than ever and positions the UAE Golden Visa AED 1.8m property investment as the new benchmark for aspiring residents.
This strategic decision is a clear signal of the UAE’s ongoing commitment to attracting global talent, entrepreneurs, and long-term investors. By making the Golden Visa more accessible, the government is not only rewarding those who choose to invest in the country but is also providing a substantial stimulus to the real estate market. For anyone who has been considering a property purchase in this dynamic region, the timing has never been better. This change opens up a wider range of properties and opportunities, turning what was once a near-miss for many into a direct pathway to a secure, long-term future in the UAE.
A Game-Changer for Investors: The New AED 1.8m Golden Visa Rule
So, what exactly does this change mean for you as a potential investor? The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term, 10-year residency permit that allows foreign nationals to live, work, and study in the country without the need for a national sponsor. It offers a host of benefits, including the ability to sponsor family members and dependents, providing stability and peace of mind. Previously, one of the primary routes to this visa was through a real estate investment of at least AED 2 million.
The new amendment, which reduces this figure to AED 1.8 million, is more than just a simple AED 200,000 discount. It is a calculated move that significantly broadens the pool of eligible investors. As reported by Arabian Business on December 23, 2025, this incentive is expected to create a fresh wave of interest in the market. The UAE Golden Visa AED 1.8m property investment threshold now aligns perfectly with a vast category of high-quality apartments and townhouses in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, making it a much more accessible entry point for individuals and families worldwide. This isn’t just about lowering a number; it’s about opening a door.
This adjustment also applies to off-plan properties from approved, government-registered real estate developers, which is a major advantage. This means you can secure your path to a Golden Visa by investing in a brand-new project, often with attractive payment plans, before it is even completed. This flexibility adds another layer of appeal, allowing you to plan your investment and residency simultaneously.
How the UAE Golden Visa AED 1.8m Property Investment Unlocks Dubai’s Market
Dubai’s property market, known for its iconic skyline and luxurious offerings, is set to directly benefit from this updated regulation. The new AED 1.8 million threshold brings a huge number of properties into the Golden Visa eligibility zone. Suddenly, a stylish one-bedroom apartment in a prime area or a spacious two-bedroom home in a thriving new community is not just a great asset but also your ticket to a 10-year residency.
Think about the possibilities. A UAE Golden Visa AED 1.8m property investment could secure you a property in some of Dubai’s most sought-after communities. Areas that are now firmly within reach for this visa category include:
- Dubai Marina: Known for its stunning waterfront views and active lifestyle, many one-bedroom and some two-bedroom apartments now fall within the visa-qualifying price point.
- Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC): A popular community for families and young professionals, offering great value. Spacious apartments and even some townhouses can be acquired for around AED 1.8 million.
- Business Bay: As Dubai’s central business district continues to expand, acquiring an apartment here not only makes for a smart investment but also places you at the heart of the city’s commercial hub.
- DAMAC Hills 2 and Emaar South: These developing communities offer larger properties like townhouses and small villas within the new threshold, perfect for those seeking more space.
This influx of demand is expected to have a positive effect on property valuations. As more buyers enter the market targeting this specific price point, we anticipate healthy appreciation in properties hovering around the AED 1.8 million mark. For savvy investors, this presents a dual opportunity: secure a long-term visa for your family and acquire an asset that is likely to grow in value. The “Golden Visa Dubai property” is no longer a distant dream but a tangible and strategic goal.
Abu Dhabi’s Appeal Grows with the Accessible Golden Visa
While Dubai often captures the global real estate headlines, the UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi, stands to gain immensely from this new, more accessible Golden Visa rule. Abu Dhabi offers a unique proposition: a blend of high-end urban living, serene coastal lifestyles, and a rich cultural scene. The city’s real estate market is known for its well-planned communities, high-quality construction, and stable, long-term growth prospects.
The UAE Golden Visa AED 1.8m property investment makes the capital an even more compelling choice. Investors can now look at a wide array of properties that qualify for the 10-year residency. Imagine owning a modern apartment on Yas Island, with its world-class entertainment venues and attractions, or a tranquil home on Saadiyat Island, a cultural district that houses the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Communities like Al Reem Island and Al Reef also offer excellent apartment and villa options that fit comfortably within this new investment bracket.
Abu Dhabi’s market provides a sense of established calm and is often preferred by those seeking a family-oriented environment combined with a sophisticated urban setting. The government’s continued investment in infrastructure, culture, and business makes an Abu Dhabi real estate investment a very secure bet. With the lowered visa threshold, the capital is perfectly positioned to attract a new group of investors who value both the lifestyle and the long-term stability that Abu Dhabi offers.
Securing Your Future: The Path to a 10-Year Residency
Understanding the value of this opportunity is the first step; acting on it is the next. Making a UAE Golden Visa AED 1.8m property investment is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to detail. Here’s a general outline of the path to securing your 10-year residency through property ownership.
First, you must identify and purchase a qualifying property or a portfolio of properties with a total value of at least AED 1.8 million. The property can be freehold or leasehold and can include off-plan purchases from approved developers. It is important to work with a trusted real estate advisor to find properties that not only meet your lifestyle needs but also fully comply with the visa requirements.
Once you have the title deed or the initial sale contract for an off-plan unit, you can begin the application process. This is typically done through the Dubai Land Department (DLD) for properties in Dubai or the relevant authorities in other emirates. You will need to submit a set of documents, including your passport, the property ownership certificate, and proof of funds. Upon successful verification, your application will be approved, and you will be granted the 10-year Golden Visa.
The benefits extend far beyond just living in the UAE. As a Golden Visa holder, you possess the freedom to:
- Live, work, and study in the UAE without restrictions.
- Sponsor your spouse and children of any age, as well as domestic help.
- Remain outside the UAE for any length of time without your visa becoming invalid.
- Enjoy the security of a long-term plan for yourself and your family.
The decision to lower the investment threshold is a powerful invitation from the UAE government. It is a call to investors, families, and professionals to become part of the nation’s success story. If you are ready to explore your options, our team is here to guide you. We specialize in identifying properties in Dubai that meet the new UAE Golden Visa AED 1.8m property investment requirement. Contact us today to find the perfect property that will serve as your home and your foundation for a bright future in the Emirates.
Source: Arabian Business