UAE Golden Visa: 2026 Amendments - The Updated Guide

June 29, 2026

In a move described as the most influential since the launch of the UAE Golden Visa system, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) announced in February 2026 the cancellation of the 50% prepayment requirement of the property value. This condition used to constitute the biggest obstacle for foreign investors wishing to obtain a long-term residency in the UAE.

In this guide, we review with Skyline Holding the most prominent features of the UAE Golden Visa 2026, the new amendments, application steps, and additional eligible categories.

What is the UAE Golden Visa?

The Golden Visa is a long-term visa (10 years renewable) granted by the UAE to investors, entrepreneurs, talents, and professionals. Its most prominent features include:

A 10-year duration automatically renewable.
Freedom of residence without the need for a sponsor.
Bringing the family (spouse, children, and even parents).
Sponsorship of domestic helpers and drivers.
Freedom to stay outside the UAE without losing the residency.
Ease of opening bank accounts and companies.

Key Amendments to the Golden Visa in 2026

The year 2026 witnessed a series of amendments to the UAE Golden Visa system, most notably:

1- Cancellation of the 50% Prepayment Requirement

Previously, an investor was required to pay a minimum of 50% of the property value (or the equivalent of AED 1 million) upfront. The decision on February 20, 2026, completely canceled this condition, and it has become sufficient to own a property worth AED 2 million under any payment plan.

2- Acceptance of Mortgaged Properties

It has become possible for an investor to obtain the Golden Visa even if the property is funded through a bank loan, provided that a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the financing bank is submitted.

3- Acceptance of Off-Plan Properties

Off-plan property that carries an Oqood certificate (initial registration) is accepted as a basis for obtaining the Golden Visa.

4- The AED 2 Million Threshold is Still in Force

The baseline threshold of AED 2 million (approximately $545,000) remains as the minimum property value for the 10-year residency.

5- Cancellation of the AED 750,000 Limit for the 2-Year Investor Visa

The DLD Cube affiliated with the Dubai Land Department in the Emirate of Dubai canceled this limit, meaning that the 2-year real estate investor residency has become available at a lower threshold, according to new regulations.

6- AED 400,000 Threshold for Joint Shares

Unmarried investors are now allowed to obtain residency by purchasing a property with shared stakes, with a minimum of AED 400,000 per partner.

7- "Salama" Smart Platform for Residency Renewal

In February 2026, the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship launched the AI-powered Salama smart platform, which allows easy renewal of the Golden Visa via mobile phone.

8- Expanding Eligible Categories

New categories eligible for the Golden Visa have been added:

Nurses with 15 years of experience or more.
Digital content creators.
E-sports players.
Certified teachers.
Endowment donors.

UAE Golden Visa 2026 Requirements via Real Estate

Requirement	Details
Minimum property value	AED 2 million
Property type	Ready or off-plan (with Oqood)
Financing	Can be in cash or through a bank
Joint shares	Allowed with a limit of AED 400,000 per partner
Duration	10 years renewable
Family sponsorship	Spouse, children, parents

Steps to Apply for the Golden Visa via Real Estate

Purchasing a property worth at least AED 2 million in any of the seven emirates.
Registering the property at the relevant land department (DLD in Dubai, DMT in Abu Dhabi).
Obtaining the ownership certificate (Title Deed).
Online application via the ICP platform or GDRFA Dubai.
Submitting the required documents:
- A valid passport.
- Title Deed.
- A No Objection Certificate from the bank (in case of financing).
- Personal photo.
- Valid health insurance.
Medical examination at any approved center.
Biometric enrollment (fingerprints + retinal scan).
Visa issuance within 5-15 working days.

Comparison of Long-Term Residencies in the Region

Feature	UAE (Golden)	Turkey (Citizenship)	Saudi Arabia (Premium)
Minimum threshold	AED 2 million (~$545,000)	$400,000	Varies by program
Duration	10 years	Full citizenship	Multiple forms
Family	Inclusive	Inclusive	Inclusive
Resale	Available without conditions	Prohibited for 3 years	According to conditions
Passport	Not granted	Granted	Not granted
Taxes	None	Medium	Very low

When is the UAE Golden Visa the Best Option?

The UAE Golden Visa 2026 is the ideal option when:

You are looking for stability in a global environment without committing to a second citizenship.
You have a budget of AED 2 million or more.
You wish to separate your assets from your country of origin.
You plan to launch regional business from the UAE.
You are looking for a high-quality health and education system for your children.
You desire regional and international freedom of movement.

Conclusion

The UAE Golden Visa amendments in 2026 make the UAE more attractive than ever for Arab and international real estate investors. By canceling the 50% requirement, accepting financed and off-plan properties, and simplifying procedures via the Salama smart platform, the Golden Visa has become accessible to a wider segment of investors. Those entering the market today within qualitative projects benefit from a double advantage: strong capital growth + an exceptional residency for a whole decade.

Are you planning to obtain the UAE Golden Visa in 2026?

The Skyline Holding team offers you integrated expertise in choosing the right property that meets the Golden Visa conditions, with complete follow-up on application procedures.

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الإقامة الذهبية الإماراتية

UAE Golden Visa