UAE Golden Visa: The Real AED 2 Million Threshold (Not AED 10 Million)
A lot of outdated information still circulates claiming the UAE Golden Visa requires AED 10 million in net worth. That's not the current rule — here's what actually qualifies today.
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The real threshold: AED 2 million
Under current rules published by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP), the investment threshold for a Golden Visa is AED 2 million — not AED 10 million. This applies across the main investment routes.
The three main routes
- Real estate: AED 2 million minimum property value — and as of a February 2026 policy update, mortgaged and off-plan properties can now qualify, removing the old requirement to hold the full amount as unmortgaged equity.
- Public investment (fund deposit): AED 2 million deposited in an approved investment fund.
- Company capital: AED 2 million in company capital or share value.
There's also a route based on paying at least AED 250,000 in annual federal taxes, for those who don't fit the other categories.
Where the AED 10 million figure comes from
Older or unofficial sources sometimes cite a higher net-worth figure, but the ICP's current published criteria show no AED 10 million tier for the standard investor category. Always check the ICP's official Golden Residency page directly rather than relying on older articles, since UAE visa policy is updated periodically.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Golden Visa require me to hold the property outright?
How long does a Golden Visa last?
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