The UAE remains attractive for foreigners. Its pearl is Dubai. This metropolis is popular not only with vacationers. Developed infrastructure and a dynamically developing economy provide a comfortable lifestyle. A broad range of real estate is available for permanent residence on any budget. You can buy a flat in a ready-made residential complex, for example, in Rukan Lofts in Dubai, or in an off-plan building. With any of the options, a visa is required to reside legally in the UAE. In 2022, the authorities made changes to the legislation, and the range of persons who can apply for a residence permit was expanded.
Advantages of living in Dubai
The metropolis provides comfortable living conditions and extensive business opportunities. The advantages are:
• No cold temperatures, slush, dirt.
• High level of education and medicine.
• A large selection of housing.
• Minimum crime rate.
• No taxes on personal income and disposal of real estate.
In recent years, townhouses and villas have been in high demand among buyers, although apartments are also extremely popular.
How to apply for a visa to buy a property in Dubai
The law establishes that the owner of real estate for over $204,000 can apply for a residence permit in Dubai. This visa is valid for 3 years. A resident can repeatedly extend it and sponsor his relatives. If the property is purchased in shares, to obtain a residence permit, the share of each owner must cost $204,000 established by law.
“Golden visa” for real estate in Dubai
In addition to a 3-year residence permit, you can apply for a 10-year visa. It is also called “golden”. It is enough to invest in one or more properties for over $544,000. This innovation came into force in 2022. Previously, the price threshold was 5 times higher. Other categories of citizens can also apply for a “golden visa”:
• Employees of local companies working under contract and receiving a salary of $8,168.
• Talented specialists with appropriate qualifications. They can be scientists, writers, creative people.
• Entrepreneurs participating in startups approved by the Ministry of Economy and founded companies in small and medium-sized businesses. A prerequisite is to receive an annual income of $279,300.
A residence permit grants residents the same rights as locals. The exception is the benefits for holders of citizenship. There are no restrictions on renewal.
Changes in legislation in 2022
Previously, it was allowed to issue a residence permit when buying ready-made real estate. Now, it is allowed to invest in off-plan properties. Government agencies must approve the developer. This is an important condition. Moreover, payment terms have been changed. If earlier you could buy real estate for cash, now you can pay with a mortgage. The bank must also be state-approved. A homeowner can take a lot of household helpers with him.
Special conditions for pensioners
There is a special program for pensioners in the UAE. It allows people over 55 and officially retired to apply for a residence permit under special conditions. They need to meet one of these criteria:
• Purchase real estate for over $550,000.
• Have an annual income of $49,000 and above.
• Open a 3-year deposit of $275,000 at a local bank.
It is also possible to combine a deposit and a $550,000 property. The visa for pensioners is valid for 5 years.
Visa for relatives
A homeowner who has become a resident can sponsor his children and elderly parents. There are no age restrictions for female and disabled children. Sons can get a visa thanks to their parents only at the age of 25. Between 18 and 25, young people can obtain a residence permit if they study at universities in the UAE or other countries. If a resident dies while sponsoring his family, relatives can stay in the country for the duration of the residence permit.
Choosing a property in Dubai
Over the past year, the cost of housing in the metropolis has increased significantly, especially houses and villas have become more expensive. Nevertheless, prices remain affordable compared to similar areas in major cities in Europe and the USA. The peculiarity of local housing is that housing has a wide price range. You can buy both apartments for several hundred thousand dollars, and premium real estate for several tens of millions. You can choose an option for every budget at https://emirates.estate/. Experts are ready to answer your questions about how to find housing, get a residence permit, and move to Dubai.
