As of April 2026, the Dubai Land Department (DLD) has significantly relaxed its residency requirements by scrapping the minimum property value of AED 750,000 for the 2 year residence visa. If you are the sole registered owner of a completed residential property, you now qualify for residency regardless of the purchase price.
Updated Joint Ownership Rules
For properties owned by multiple individuals (excluding spouses), the rules have been refined to ensure substantial investment from each party. In such cases, each co-owner must now hold a minimum share worth at least AED 400,000 to qualify for their own individual residency visa.
Focus on Completed Properties
The 2-year “Taskeen” residence visa program specifically applies to completed residential units. While off-plan properties are a major part of Dubai’s market, they generally do not qualify for this specific residency tier until the project is officially handed over and the Title Deed is issued.
Comparison with the 10 Year Golden Visa
While the 2-year visa is now more accessible, the 10-year Golden Visa remains the premier residency option for larger investors. To qualify for the Golden Visa through property, an investor must hold a total certified property value of at least AED 2 million, providing long-term stability without the need for a local sponsor.
Strategic Opportunity for Mid Tier Buyers
This policy shift is specifically designed to attract mid-tier professionals and entry-level investors who were previously priced out of residency benefits. By removing the financial floor for sole owners, entry-level apartments and studios now offer the same residency perks as luxury villas, expanding the market to a broader global audience.
Application Requirements and Process
To begin the application process, property owners must provide a valid Title Deed, a copy of their passport, and a certified health insurance plan. Applications can be processed through the Dubai Land Department’s official channels or the “Cube” center, which is dedicated to streamlining investor services.