Stay Updated With Our Latest Insights
Best option for UAE golden visa: Property Purchase or Share Capital?
It is not easy to pick the best option for the UAE golden visa for investors. The question here is whether to go for the golden visa through property purchase or the golden visa through company investment, as each option has its own set of advantages, requirements, and flexibility. Let’s explore both routes in detail and figure out where your long-term residency and financial goals match
Grasping the UAE Golden Visa Investment Possibilities
The UAE administration has tailored several UAE golden visa investment options to entice overseas investors and entrepreneurs. Out of these, only two are known for their power and easy access:
- 1. Golden Visa via Real Estate Investment
- 2. Golden Visa via Company Investment (Share Capital)
Both grants permanent residency (for a period of 5-10 years); however, there are differences in terms of eligibility, risk exposure, and management needs.
Golden Visa through Property Purchase
The golden visa through property purchase is perfect for investors who are looking for a steady return on investment and a physical asset at the same time.
Main conditions:
> The minimum total investment is AED 2 million in one or more properties.
> The property should be fully constructed (no off-plan) and located in a freehold area.
> A title deed issued by the Dubai Land Department (or the relevant emirate authority) is required.
> Properties purchased with a mortgage may be eligible if the investor’s equity is at least AED 2 million (a bank letter providing evidence is required).
Necessary paperwork:
> Original deed(s)
> Certificate of property valuation
> No-Objection Certificate for Mortgage (if applicable)
> Passport, Emirates ID, and a valid visa
> Utility bill or proof of residence
Time for processing: 7–10 working days after submission of all the necessary documents.
Estimated fees: Approximately AED 2,800 – AED 4,000, depending on the emirate and the category.
Holding rule: If you sell or transfer the property for less than the AED 2 million threshold, your golden visa might be cancelled upon renewal.
This option continues to be the first choice among those who are interested in passive income, diversification of portfolios, and freedom of lifestyle.
Golden Visa through Company Investment (Share Capital)
Golden visa through company investment is a straightforward option for entrepreneurs and business persons who like to engage actively and see their companies grow.
The UAE golden visa share capital requirement of AED 2 million clearly implies that investors need to put in that amount or more in fully paid-up capital in a UAE company. This investment is to be real and not done through loans. Furthermore, it has to be supported by records from the authorities.
Necessary paperwork:
> Valid Trade License
> Memorandum of Association (MOA) showing AED 2 million paid-up share capital
> Bank letter confirming capital deposit
> Audited financial statements
> Copy of Emirates ID, passport, and visa
Eligibility across business zones:
> Mainland Companies: Must be registered under the Department of Economic Development.
> Free-Zone Companies: Some free zones (e.g., Dubai Multi Commodities Centre, Abu Dhabi Global Market) allow investors to apply directly, provided the paid-up capital meets the threshold.
Processing time: Usually 10–15 business days after verification.
Typical Fees: Around AED 3,000 – AED 5,000 depending on emirate and authority.
This option perfectly fits the case of investors who are willing to do the on-the-ground expansion of UAE-based businesses, take on more staff, and reap the benefits of the local and international markets’ access.
Also Read: Winning Business Plan for UAE Market Entry
Comparing the options
Both UAE golden visa investment options allow one to obtain long-term residency, but are different in their management, liquidity, and risk profile. The golden visa through property purchase comes with less daily interaction, the possibility of earning through passive rent, and a property that can be held or disposed of as per one’s wish.
On the other hand, a Golden Visa through company investment requires constant supervision and involves you in the risk of the business, but at the same time, it gives you the opportunity to access the market directly and provides faster scaling for the investor who is focused on growth.
Therefore, when we refer to the “UAE golden visa share capital requirement,” it means the minimum capital or investment in a business that provides you with a qualification.
Which is the best option for the UAE golden visa?
Beyond the initial investment, understanding the different UAE golden visa investment options can help you align market timing, liquidity, and compliance with your long-term financial plan.
If you prefer a lower-management path with potential rental income, the golden visa through property purchase is often the best option for UAE golden visa applicants seeking residency-plus-asset ownership. If your goal is to build a business, then company share capital aligned with the paid-up capital rules may be the better route.
FAQ’S
The typical threshold is combined property holdings worth AED 2 million.
The UAE golden visa share capital requirement generally asks for AED 2 million in bona fide paid-up capital or equivalent invested funds, supported by audited documentation.
Yes. Combining multiple holdings to meet the total investment value is allowed in common practice.
CONCLUSION
When you’re deciding between share capital/company investment and property purchase as your pathway to the UAE Golden Visa, you should consider your investment goal, lifestyle intention, risk appetite, and business involvement level. Both paths satisfy the core criteria of the UAE’s long-term residency scheme, and both can be valid depending on your circumstances.
Leela International offers assistance in assessing, organizing, and getting the best option for the UAE golden visa. It doesn’t matter if you go for a golden visa through buying a property or a golden visa through investing in a company.
At Leela International, we help clients choose the most strategic path among the various UAE golden visa investment options, ensuring that every decision aligns with your financial goals and long-term residency plans.
Leela International: Bridging your global ambitions with UAE golden opportunities.
