Emirates Passport via Dubai Real Estate Investment
Overview of Obtaining UAE Passport and Citizenship through Investment
In February 2021, the United Arab Emirates made significant changes to its citizenship law. The government now allows eligible investors and individuals with exceptional talents, along with their families, to obtain UAE citizenship. This means that obtaining a Emirates passport through property purchase can be covered.
We, the Emirates Real Estate Group or AmlakUAE, a specialized group for property purchase in Dubai, will answer your questions about how to obtain UAE citizenship or a UAE passport and review the requirements in this article.
Summary of the UAE Passport Article
Summary: Obtaining a Emirates passport through property purchase, investment, and exceptional talent.
UAE citizenship and obtaining a UAE passport through investment were announced in 2021. This law marks a major change in the Gulf Cooperation Council, as the UAE never granted citizenship to anyone before but only issued visas and residence permits to foreigners. Since its introduction, this scheme has been welcomed by many investors and talents who are curious about how to obtain Dubai citizenship and a UAE passport.
The UAE government’s goal in enacting this supportive law is to attract outstanding and special talents and foreign investors to help develop the country scientifically and economically. The UAE Cabinet, Executive Councils, and local courts will be the authorities to nominate eligible individuals for UAE citizenship.
Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum stated that the law was enacted to “attract talents who contribute to the development process.
UAE Golden Visa
The UAE Golden Visa, also known as Dubai Golden Visa, is a long-term residence visa that allows investors and talented foreigners to live, work, or study in the country.
Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa include but are not limited to:
- It is a self-sponsored visa, so no employer sponsorship is needed.
- You can renew your residence permit even if you stay outside the UAE beyond the usual six months to maintain your visa validity.
- You can include your spouse and children under this visa and Emirates passport regardless of their age.
Who is the UAE Golden Visa for?
The Golden Visa targets various individuals who want to obtain UAE residence, including:
- Investors
- Entrepreneurs
- Exceptional talents
- Scientists and specialists
- Outstanding students and graduates
- Humanitarian pioneers
- Frontline heroes
Conditions for UAE Golden Visa and Obtaining a UAE Passport
Below you can find information on the conditions for the Dubai Golden Visa.
- Requirements vary depending on the type of residency such as investor, talent, entrepreneur, etc.
- For investors, a minimum investment of 10 million AED in the UAE is required.
- Entrepreneurs must demonstrate a successful business history and at least 500,000 AED investment.
- Talented individuals must have relevant academic qualifications and proven records validated by reputable international organizations.
- Executives, highly skilled professionals, and specialist talents are also eligible.
- Applicants must pass background checks and meet general requirements such as valid passports and clean criminal records.
- Criteria may evolve over time, as the Golden Visa program is designed to attract exceptional people who can help the country grow and develop.
- The aim is to ensure applicants are qualified, bring significant value to the UAE, and promote diversity and innovation in various fields.
Eligibility for Dubai Passport
Long-term UAE residency and passport options are available for 10 years and 5 years. See the table below for categories eligible for the UAE Golden Visa:
| Category | Golden Visa Type |
|---|---|
| Investors | Public investment, real estate investment (UAE passport via property purchase) |
| Entrepreneurs | Owner of a registered startup, approved startup idea, founder of a startup sold inside or outside UAE |
| Exceptional talents | Culture and arts, inventors and innovators, sports, digital technology |
| Scientists & specialists | Scientists, senior executives, professionals in science, engineering, health, education, business, IT, law, social and cultural fields |
| Outstanding students | High-performing high school students, top graduates from UAE universities, graduates from top 100 universities worldwide |
| Humanitarian pioneers | Members of prominent international and regional humanitarian organizations, award recipients in humanitarian fields, volunteers and supporters |
10-Year UAE Residency Visa for Investors
To apply as an investor, a minimum public investment of 10 million AED is required, through:
- Minimum 10 million AED deposit in a local investment fund,
- Establishing a business with a minimum capital of 10 million AED,
- Partnership in a company with a share value of at least 10 million AED,
- Minimum 10 million AED investment in any of the above, with at least 60% of total investment outside Dubai real estate.
Requirements
- Proof of sufficient funds without loans,
- Commitment to maintain the investment for at least 3 years,
- Financial eligibility of 10 million AED,
- Visa can be extended to business partners contributing 10 million AED each.
10-Year Residency for Exceptional Talents
Qualified professionals, researchers, doctors, scientists, inventors, and creatives in culture and arts are eligible. Spouse and children are included. A valid work contract in UAE is mandatory.
5-Year Residency Visa for Investors
For investors, a minimum property value of 5 million AED is required, and the property must be held for at least 3 years. Loans or mortgage facilities are not allowed for this investment.
5-Year Residency Visa for Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs with existing projects with 500,000 AED investment or those approved by an accredited UAE business incubator may apply. Visa extends to spouse, children, partner, and three executives.
5-Year Residency Visa for Students
Outstanding students with a minimum score of 95 in public or private secondary schools, or a GPA of 3.75 from top universities worldwide, qualify. Family visa extension is possible.
Benefits of UAE Citizenship through Investment
- Right to live, work, and study in UAE for you and your family.
- Family reunification allowed.
- Unlimited property registration without restrictions faced by foreigners.
- Easier banking and company formation processes.
- Visa-free travel to many countries including Schengen states and more.
Application Process for UAE Golden Visa
- Obtain an entry visa if required.
- Complete your investment.
- Submit your application online or at designated offices.
- Receive updates via SMS and email.
- Provide missing documents within 30 days if requested.
Fees
- Applying within UAE: 2800 to 3800 AED
- Applying from outside UAE: 3800 to 4800 AED
Tax Implications
- UAE has no personal income tax, inheritance tax, or capital gains tax.
- Over 130 countries have double taxation treaties with UAE.
- Dual Citizenship
The new UAE citizenship law allows dual citizenship; however, check with your original country for compatibility.
Final Note
Final note: The eligibility requirements for an Emirates passport vary for each category, for example, investors must own property, professionals must have 10 years of work experience and membership in reputable organizations, inventors need to have patents approved by the Ministry of Economy, etc.
