Real Estate & Construction

The UAE’s property-backed Golden Visa program is poised to attract a new wave of international investors, especially in light of recent market volatility triggered by Trump’s newly imposed tariffs. With a minimum property investment threshold of Dh2 million, the UAE’s 10-year residency program is emerging as the preferred choice for serious buyers, outpacing competing schemes in the Gulf.

Industry experts note that the current global economic environment has investors seeking stable, low-volatility assets, and Dubai's price-stabilized property sector is offering just that. "Unlike 2008, today's Dubai real estate buyers are long-term investors, not speculators," said the CEO of a leading real estate group. "That makes the Golden Visa more attractive than ever."

Ready Homes in High Demand

Dubai’s property market has seen a steady supply of ready-to-move-in homes, especially in the Dh2 million+ range, ideal for buyers looking to qualify for the Golden Visa. Market watchers say this segment is receiving increased interest as new rules have removed the need to make an upfront Dh1 million payment for eligibility.

Fast-Tracked Residency

According to Libbie Burtinshaw, Head of Operations at Sovereign PPG, Golden Visa processing now takes just 7-10 working days for property investors. She added, “Most suburban homes in Dubai cross the Dh2 million mark, making this a viable route for long-term residency.”

Competitive Edge in the Gulf

While Saudi Arabia has launched its investment-linked visa program with a SAR 4 million requirement, experts note that foreign demand in cities like Riyadh and Jeddah still lags, making the UAE's program more accessible and globally appealing.

“With other markets like Spain withdrawing their Golden Visa schemes and Western nations tightening regulations, the UAE’s investor-friendly environment stands out,” said Burtinshaw.

Developers Eye Saudi Market Expansion

Despite Saudi Arabia’s higher thresholds, international developers — including several from Russia and the CIS region — are eyeing entry into the Kingdom’s ambitious real estate sector, with mixed-use, hospitality, and co-living projects under consideration.

However, with the UAE already boasting a robust ecosystem for foreign direct investment, industry insiders say it will remain the top destination for real estate-driven Golden Visas in the region.

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