Dubai has quietly rolled out major changes to its two-year property visa program, making it easier than ever for real estate investors to secure long-term residency.

Under the updated rules, the previous minimum property investment threshold of 750,000 dirhams for individual owners has been removed. That means sole property owners in Dubai are now eligible to apply for the two-year residency visa regardless of their property’s value.

However, for jointly owned properties, each co-owner must hold a share worth at least 400,000 dirhams to qualify. This applies even if the ownership is split equally.

What the visa offers
The two-year property visa allows holders to live in Dubai and benefit from the city’s well-developed living environment and investment opportunities. The application process has also been streamlined for greater efficiency.

Who is eligible
Single owners: No minimum property value requirement. As long as you are the sole owner of a Dubai property, you can apply.

Joint owners: Each owner must hold a minimum share of 400,000 dirhams.

Required documents
Applicants need to prepare the following:

Original title deed for a property in Dubai (properties from other emirates or the Dubai International Financial Centre are not accepted)

Liability or No Objection Certificate from the bank if the property is mortgaged. If financed by a developer, a payment statement from the developer is required.

Clear copy of passport with at least six months of validity

Old Emirates ID, if applicable

High quality digital photo that meets the authorities’ specifications

Health insurance from any licensed provider in the UAE

A certificate of good conduct issued by Dubai Police, addressed to the Dubai Land Department. Residents can use the Dubai Police mobile app; non residents must visit the Dubai Police station in Port Rashid.

Applicants from Iran, Pakistan, Iraq, Libya, and Afghanistan must also provide their national ID.

Cost structure
New property investor visa: 10,545 dirhams

Visa renewal: 8,215 dirhams

Visa cancellation: 1,239 dirhams

How to apply
The application process is straightforward. Interested individuals can visit the official portal and follow these steps:

Read and accept the terms and conditions

Select whether the applicant is currently living in the UAE or not

Upload all required documents and complete the application forms

Submit the application and make the payment

Officials have positioned the changes as part of efforts to make Dubai more accessible to property investors while keeping the process clear and efficient. With the minimum investment barrier removed for sole owners, the updated visa rules are expected to attract a wider range of buyers looking to call Dubai home.