By: Daniel Geller Hermes Real Estate Property Consultant

Investing in off-plan property in Dubai not only opens doors to high-potential real estate gains but also offers a clear pathway to residency, depending on the value of your investment.

Whether you’re looking for short-term flexibility or long-term residence through the Golden Visa, Dubai’s investor-friendly visa system offers options to suit various investment levels.

A key gateway to enjoying all that Dubai offers is holding a Dubai residence visa.

Here are the main benefits of having one:

1. Legal Residency in the UAE

A Dubai residence visa allows you to legally live in the UAE, whether for work, business, or family reasons. It’s typically issued for 2–10 years, depending on the visa type (employment, investor, property owner, or retirement visa).

2. Tax-Free Income

One of the most appealing advantages is no personal income tax. Residents can earn salaries, dividends, or business profits without paying income tax, offering significant savings and financial freedom.

3. Open a Bank Account

With a residence visa, you are eligible to open personal and business bank accounts in Dubai. This is essential for receiving payments, managing finances, and building credit with local financial institutions.

4. Access to Healthcare and Insurance

Dubai offers high-quality healthcare, and residents are required to have health insurance, giving them access to a wide network of public and private hospitals and clinics.

5. Sponsor Family Members

A residence visa enables you to sponsor your spouse, children, and sometimes even parents to live with you in Dubai, creating stability and unity for families.

6. Driver’s License and Car Ownership

Residents can obtain a UAE driver’s license and register a vehicle in their name. This is essential in a city where owning a car can significantly improve mobility and convenience.

7. Enrol in Schools and Universities

If you have children, a residence visa allows them to attend schools and universities in the UAE, which includes a wide range of international curriculums and higher education options.

8. Business and Property Ownership

With the right type of visa (such as investor or property owner), you can own 100% of businesses in designated free zones and purchase real estate in approved areas, opening the door to long-term wealth-building.

9. Travel Flexibility

A valid Dubai residence visa makes travel easier in and out of the UAE, and in some cases, can facilitate visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to certain other countries.

10. Pathway to Long-Term Residency

Dubai offers 5- and 10-year Golden Visas for investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, and exceptional talents. Having a regular residence visa can be the first step toward qualifying for this long-term residency program.

Types of Visas Available :

1.  2-Year Investor Visa

For property investments worth AED 750,000 or more.

Joint ownership allowed (each share must be at least AED 750,000).

2. 10-Year Golden Visa

For investments worth AED 2 million or more.

Can include off-plan properties from approved developers.

No mortgage or partial mortgage may be accepted depending on the value.