OpenUnited Arab Emirates

UAE Golden Visa: Cost, Requirements & Processing Time (2026)

The short version

UAE Golden Visa requires a minimum investment of €516,000 (real estate route), with residency in ~1–2 months and no direct citizenship pathway.

Investment routes compared

Route type	Amount (EUR)	Notes	Primary?
Real estate	€516,000AED 2,000,000	Property valued at AED 2M+ (~USD 545K / ~€516K). Single or multiple properties registered to same owner.	Most common
Company shares / equity	€516,000AED 2,000,000	Active business investment or entrepreneur route.
Talent-based (no investment)	No financial investment	Exceptional talent / scientists / specialised professionals — varies by discipline.

At a glance

€516,000 minimum qualifying investment
~1–2 months expected end-to-end processing
No direct citizenship pathway citizenship timeline
No Schengen access travel rights
No minimum stay physical-presence requirement

Physical presence: No minimum stay. Return at least once every 6 months to maintain Emirates ID.

Official program source · Source: UAE Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) · Last verified Apr 15, 2026 · Verify current rules with an authorized immigration adviser or the destination's consulate before applying.

Next review 2026-07-15.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum investment for the UAE Golden Visa?

The minimum qualifying investment is €516,000. ~€516K (AED 2,000,000) property investment — full valuation required, not just down payment. Qualifying routes: Real estate (€516,000); Company shares / equity (€516,000); Talent-based (no investment) (€0) Most applicants use the Real estate route (€516,000).

How long does the UAE Golden Visa take to process?

Expected end-to-end processing is ~1–2 months. Dubai Land Department handles property-based applications; very fast for qualifying purchases.

Can I get citizenship through the UAE Golden Visa, and when?

This programme has no direct citizenship pathway. UAE citizenship is rarely granted to foreign investors. Golden Visa holders cannot expect a UAE passport through this route.

What is the physical-presence requirement for the UAE Golden Visa?

No minimum stay. Return at least once every 6 months to maintain Emirates ID.

Are my spouse and children included in the UAE Golden Visa?

Spouse, minor children, adult children in education, parents can be included.

Does the UAE Golden Visa grant Schengen access?

No. UAE Golden Visa does not by itself grant Schengen-area travel rights.

Is the UAE Golden Visa currently open to new applicants?

The programme is currently open.

Who regulates the UAE Golden Visa?

UAE Golden Visa is administered by UAE Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP). The canonical source is https://icp.gov.ae/en/services/golden-residency/. Facts last verified 2026-04-15; next review 2026-07-15.