How to Get an Investor Visa in Dubai – 2025 Guide

Are you thinking about moving to Dubai as an investor? The UAE offers several visa options for people who want to invest in property or business. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about getting an Investor Visa in Dubai in 2025.
Why Dubai is a Top Destination for Investors
Dubai has rapidly become one of the most attractive cities in the world for investors. Here’s why many are choosing to apply for the Dubai investor visa:
- Zero income tax and capital gains tax
- Strategic location between Europe, Asia, and Africa
- High rental yields and strong property appreciation
- World-class infrastructure and luxury lifestyle
- Safe and secure legal environment for investors
- Fast and transparent visa processing system
What Is the Investor Visa in Dubai?
The Investor Visa is a type of UAE residence visa that allows you to live and work in Dubai if you invest in real estate, a business, or the local economy. There are three main types of investor visas available:
2-Year Property Investor Visa:
- Requires a property investment of at least AED 750,000 (with at least 50% paid off if it’s mortgaged).
5-Year Investor or Business Visa:
- For investments between AED 2 million to AED 5 million in real estate or business.
10-Year Golden Visa:
- Requires AED 2 million or more in real estate, AED 2.5 million+ in business capital, or AED 10 million in company shares or investment funds.
Key Benefits of the Investor Visa in Dubai
Holding an Investor Visa in Dubai gives you access to a range of valuable benefits:
- Legal residency for 2, 5, or 10 years
- Sponsor family members, including spouse, children, and even parents
- Access to top-tier banking and financial services in the UAE
- No personal income tax or capital gains tax
- Eligibility to upgrade to the UAE Golden Visa
- Ability to live and work in Dubai without a local sponsor
Investor Visa vs Golden Visa: What’s the Difference?
Many people confuse the regular Investor Visa with the Golden Visa in Dubai. Here’s the main difference:
- The Investor Visa usually lasts for 2 or 5 years and is renewable.
- The Golden Visa lasts 10 years and offers more flexibility, especially for high-value investors, professionals, and talent categories.
You can start with a regular investor visa and upgrade later once your investment meets the Golden Visa criteria.
Updated Rules for 2025
Dubai has made it even easier to qualify for investor visas this year:
- New professions are now eligible, including educators, researchers, artists, and digital creators.
- Entrepreneurs with AED 500,000 in startup funding may qualify for the Golden Visa.
- Professionals earning a monthly salary of AED 30,000+ can apply without needing to meet basic salary limits.
- Health insurance is now required for the applicant and all dependents.
Steps to Apply for the Investor Visa
- Choose which visa you’re eligible for based on your investment.
- Collect the required documents:
- Passport copy
- Property title deed or trade license
- Proof of investment (cannot be fully loaned)
- Emirates ID application
- Medical test report
- Health insurance
- Police clearance certificate
- Bank statements
- Submit your application through the Dubai Land Department, GDRFA, or a relevant free zone authority.
- Wait 2–6 weeks for processing. Golden Visas are often processed faster if all documents are in order. (Contact Us to get the Golden Visa in 3-5 days).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using mortgage financing without providing proof of payment (at least 50% down).
- Forgetting to get health insurance for yourself and your family.
- Submitting inconsistent or incomplete financial records.
- Applying for the wrong visa category based on your actual investment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I get an investor visa by buying property in Dubai?
Yes, if you invest at least AED 750,000 in a completed property, you can apply for a 2-year investor visa.
2. Can I work in Dubai on an investor visa?
Yes, you can manage your own business and work under your investment license. You cannot work for another employer unless separately approved.
3. How long does the investor visa process take?
Usually between 2 to 6 weeks, depending on your documentation and the visa type.
4. Can I include my family in the visa?
Yes, you can sponsor your spouse, children, and even parents once your investor visa is approved.