UAE professionals holding Golden Visas are increasingly investing in properties in Dubai to secure a higher RoI and beat rising rentals, as they plan to stay in the emirate longer. The Golden Visa, awarded to investors and professionals across various categories, provides exclusive benefits such as re-entry to the country without restrictions and the ability to stay outside the UAE for more than six months. In 2023, Dubai granted Golden Visas to 158,000 people, with many holders investing in local real estate to capitalize on high returns and rising property prices.
Michael Gelpke, CEO at Glam Properties, noted that the recent policy changes, such as the removal of the minimum down payment requirement, have made it easier for investors to qualify for a Golden Visa through property investment. The stable economy, world-class infrastructure, and strategic location of the UAE further enhance its appeal to investors. Dubai’s property market has seen record transactions, with demand from Golden Visa holders and foreign investors fueling growth in the off-plan property segment.
Anmoll D Shroff, founder and chairman of Elton Group, highlighted the increase in property purchases by professional Golden Visa holders, who see long-term residency in Dubai as a promising prospect. Factors such as good RoI, reasonable property prices, and the appeal of not needing a sponsor for visas have made real estate investment appealing to Golden Visa holders. Akshay Nagdev, business head at Foremen Fiefdom, also mentioned that Dubai’s accessible visa policies and economic stability have driven an increase in property purchases among Golden Visa holders.
Professionals holding Golden Visas in Dubai are opting for larger and high-value properties with high rental yields. Developers are expanding the size of apartments and residential units to attract these investors, with luxury villas in key locations like Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, and Palm Jumeirah being popular choices. Golden Visa holders prefer gated communities with amenities and seek larger homes to accommodate their families. Off-plan properties with flexible payment plans are also appealing to this group of investors.
According to experts, professionals holding Golden Visas in Dubai prefer properties in prime areas such as Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Village Circle, Dubai Hills, and Palm Jumeirah. These locations offer luxury amenities, high-rise towers, and prime beachfront properties. Anmoll D Shroff noted that professionals prefer 2-3 bedroom apartments and townhouses in areas like Downtown, Business Bay, and Dubai Hills due to their high income and convenience in terms of commuting. The attractiveness of these locations, along with the stable economy and investor-friendly policies, has made Dubai a thriving real estate market for Golden Visa holders.
