Dubai Residence Permit: Requirements, Costs, and Benefits

Dreaming of a fresh start in Dubai? You’re not alone. With its futuristic skyline, tax-free income, safe environment, and global lifestyle, Dubai is one of the most desirable cities to live in. But before you settle into your new house overlooking the Burj Khalifa, you’ll need to make your stay official by obtaining a Dubai residence permit.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know, from types of residence visas and eligibility requirements to costs, benefits, and visa-free travel options. Whether you’re moving to Dubai for business, retirement, or investment, here’s how to make Dubai not just your favorite destination, but your home.

Types of Dubai Residency Visas

Dubai offers multiple pathways to residency, depending on your goals and background. Each visa type is designed for specific purposes such as work, study, retirement, or investment, and most are renewable, allowing you to stay long-term.

Here are the main categories:

1. Entrepreneur Visa in Dubai

Entrepreneurs can apply for a 5-year or 10-year residence visa, depending on their investment size.

• 5-year visa: Minimum investment of AED 500,000 in a new or existing UAE-based company.
• 10-year visa: Minimum investment of AED 2 million in a new business venture or company shares.

Applicants also need to provide proof of company ownership, a business plan, and evidence of financial stability. This route is ideal if you’re looking for a Dubai long-term residence permit.

2. Employment Visa in Dubai

If a UAE-based company hires you, your employer sponsors your visa. The duration typically matches your work contract (usually one or two years). To qualify, you’ll need:

• A valid job offer from a licensed UAE employer
• Educational certificates (attested)
• A medical test in Dubai

This makes living in Dubai as a foreigner much easier for professionals relocating for work.

3. Student Visa in Dubai

Students enrolled at a licensed university or college in Dubai can apply for a student residence visa, which is renewable yearly. Proof of admission, financial means, and a local sponsor (often the university itself) are required.

4. Freelancer or Remote Work Visa in Dubai

Perfect for digital nomads! This visa allows you to live in Dubai while working remotely for a company abroad or as an independent professional. Applicants must show proof of income and secure a freelance license from an approved free zone or a remote work permit.

5. Retirement Visa in Dubai

For those over 55, Dubai offers a 5-year renewable retiree visa. You can qualify through one of these:

• A monthly pension of at least AED 15,000
• Savings of AED 1 million in a UAE bank for at least three years
• Property ownership worth AED 1 million or more

This visa option is also called a Dubai permanent residence permit for retirees. This is ideal for retirees seeking safety, healthcare access, and sunshine all year round.

The Real Estate Investor’s Route: Dubai Residency Through Property

Among all visa types, residency through property purchase in Dubai has become one of the most popular and for good reason. It offers both a profitable investment and a legal pathway to live in Dubai without needing a local sponsor.

Dubai 10-Year Golden Visa for Property Investors

You can secure a 10-year Golden Visa by purchasing property worth at least AED 2 million, meeting the minimum investment for the Dubai residence visa requirement.

When you buy an off-plan property by paying 20% upfront and a 4% title deed fee, you receive the Oqood certificate. This certificate allows you to apply for the 10-year Golden Visa without needing to pay the full AED 2 million at once.

• Mortgages are allowed, provided that at least 50% of the property value is paid up front.
• You can include your spouse and children under the same visa.You can also bring your parents, and sponsor your maid and driver.

This option is ideal for long-term investors who want both residency and the opportunity to participate in Dubai’s thriving real estate market.

2-Year Residency Visa in Dubai

If your investment is smaller, you can still obtain a 2-year residency visa in Dubai.

• The property value must be AED 750,000 or more for a single investor.
• If a spouse is included, the minimum value must reach AED 1 million.
• Financing is available via a local bank with a minimum 50% down payment.

With this option, it’s straightforward to get a residence permit in Dubai while making a sound financial investment.

Required Documents for a Property-Based Residence Visa in Dubai

When applying for a residence permit Dubai via property, you’ll need:

• Title deed or property ownership certificate
• Letter from the Dubai Land Department confirming the property’s market value
• Bank letter stating mortgage or financing details (if applicable)
• Purchase or sales agreement
• Marriage certificate (if applying with a spouse)
• Certificate of no criminal record (UAE + home country, if applicable)
• Passport copy and passport-sized photos
• UAE-compliant health insurance
• Medical examination report

Once submitted, your application is reviewed by immigration authorities. After approval, you’ll undergo a medical test, apply for your Dubai Emirates residents permit card, and receive your visa stamped in your passport.

Renewing Your Dubai Residence Permit

Renewal is straightforward as long as your property still meets the eligibility criteria. You’ll need to:

• Re-submit your property documents and Emirates ID
• Complete a new medical examination
• Maintain valid health insurance
• Ensure your property’s market value still meets the required threshold (AED 750,000 for 2-year, AED 2M for 10-year)

Renewals can be handled via the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) or through Dubai’s property departments. Most renewals take a few working days once all documents are in order, following the Dubai residence permit procedure.

Costs and Fees for UAE Residency

The cost of a residence visa in Dubai​ involves these;

• Entry Permit Fee: AED 100–1,150 depending on the visa type
• Medical Examination: AED 250–700, required for all applicants
• Emirates ID Fee: AED 100–200
• Visa Stamping: AED 500–2,000 depending on the visa term
• Health Insurance: Basic coverage starts around AED 500 per year, while comprehensive packages can exceed AED 5,000

Property investors should also budget for the registration of a residence permit in Dubai with the local authorities. This covers legal formalities and ensures your visa status is fully compliant.

How much does a Dubai residence permit cost? While fees vary, most applicants spend between AED 2,000–5,000 overall for processing and insurance, depending on family size and visa category.

Recent Updates on UAE Visa Policy

Dubai continually refines its visa system to attract more global investors and professionals. Some of the latest changes include:

• Mortgage and Off-Plan Flexibility: Part-financed properties now count toward the AED 2M Golden Visa, making it easier for investors.
• Blue Visa: A 10-year visa for environmental and sustainability specialists.
• Expanded Golden Visa Professions: Now includes teachers, doctors, and creative professionals.
• Simplified Renewals: Online renewal options with fewer documents.

For EU nationals considering relocation, the new system supports a Dubai visa for EU residence permit applications, opening doors to long-term residency without complex sponsorship requirements.

Living the Dubai Dream: The Next Step

If you’ve ever asked, How to get a residence permit in Dubai or How can I get a residence visa in Dubai, here’s the simple roadmap:

1. Choose a qualifying property in Dubai’s freehold zones

2. Ensure it meets the minimum required value

3. Prepare your documents and submit via approved channels (Amer Center or ICP portal)

4. Complete medical testing and Emirates ID registration

Within a few weeks, you can enjoy all the benefits of a residence permit Dubai​ , including financial freedom, family inclusion, and the chance to explore Dubai residence permit visa-free countries.

Why Property Investment Is the Smartest Route

For many foreign buyers, purchasing property is the most attractive and stable route to obtaining residency in Dubai. Here’s why:

You own a valuable asset. Dubai’s property market continues to grow, offering high rental yields and long-term appreciation.

No employer dependency. Unlike work visas, your residency isn’t tied to a company or contract.

Family coverage. Spouses and children can be sponsored under your investor visa.

Lifestyle and benefits. As a resident, you can open a local bank account, get UAE health insurance, and travel more freely.

Ease of renewal. Once you meet the investment criteria, renewals are seamless and predictable.

Essentially, property investment in Dubai gives you both stability and financial upside — a win-win scenario.

Why Work With TEKCE?

Navigating the property market and visa rules can feel overwhelming, but with the right partner, it’s simple. TEKCE helps clients find the best investment properties in Dubai that qualify for residency, ensuring a smooth process from purchase to visa approval.

From selecting your dream property to submitting your residency application, we handle every detail so you can focus on enjoying your new life in the UAE.

Ready to make Dubai your new home? Investing in Dubai real estate isn’t just about buying property; it’s about securing a Dubai residence permit that opens the door to a new lifestyle, financial growth, and long-term residency in one of the most exciting cities in the world.

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