UAE Residence by Investment: A Comprehensive Guide

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is known for its thriving economy, rich culture, and vibrant lifestyle. The country’s strategic location has made it a hub for international businesses and investors. Moreover, the UAE offers various visa options for individuals who want to live and work in the country. One of the most popular routes for obtaining residency in the UAE is through investment. This comprehensive guide will provide an overview of the UAE residence by investment program, its benefits, requirements, process, and frequently asked questions.

What is UAE Residence by Investment Program?

The UAE Residence by Investment Program is a visa scheme launched by the UAE government to attract foreign investors who want to obtain residency in the country. The program enables investors to obtain a residency visa in the UAE by fulfilling specific investment criteria. The program aims to promote foreign direct investment, boost economic growth, and attract talented individuals to the country.

What are the Benefits of UAE Residence by Investment Program?

The UAE Residence by Investment Program offers various benefits, including:

Obtaining a residency visa in the UAE for the investor and their family members

Ability to sponsor family members for residence visa in the UAE

No minimum residency requirements

No personal income tax, corporate tax, or inheritance tax in the UAE

Access to world-class healthcare and education facilities

Opportunity to live and work in a cosmopolitan and vibrant environment

Access to a diverse range of business and investment opportunities

What are the Requirements for UAE Residence by Investment Program?

The UAE Residence by Investment Program has specific investment criteria that applicants must fulfill to obtain residency. The requirements include:

Investment in real estate: The applicant must invest in a property worth at least AED 1 million (USD 272,000) which should be held for a minimum of three years. Multiple properties can be combined to meet the investment threshold.

Investment in a business: The applicant must invest in a UAE-based company with a minimum capital of AED 10 million (USD 2.7 million). The investment can be made in the form of a share capital or a loan to the company.

Investment in funds: The applicant must invest at least AED 10 million (USD 2.7 million) in an approved fund. The fund must be established in the UAE, have a minimum life of three years, and be regulated by the local financial authorities. The investment must be held for a minimum of three years.

What is the Process for UAE Residence by Investment Program?

The process for obtaining residency through the UAE Residence by Investment Program involves the following steps:

Submission of application: The applicant must submit an application to the relevant immigration authority along with supporting documents to prove compliance with the investment criteria.

Approval of application: Upon successful review of the application and verification of documentation, the immigration authority will issue an approval letter to the applicant.

Payment of fees: The applicant must pay the relevant fees, including visa, medical, Emirates ID, and residency processing fees.

Obtaining residency visa: Once the fees are paid, the applicant will undergo medical screening and obtain a residency visa in the UAE.

FAQs

Q1. Can I invest in a property less than AED 1 million to obtain residency through UAE Residence by Investment Program?

No, the minimum investment threshold for investment in real estate is AED 1 million, which must be held for a minimum of three years.

Q2. Can I invest in a business or fund outside the UAE to obtain residency through UAE Residence by Investment Program?

No, the investment must be made in a UAE-based company or fund, which is regulated by local financial authorities.

Q3. Can I work in the UAE on a residency obtained through UAE Residence by Investment Program?

Yes, a residency obtained through the UAE Residence by Investment Program allows an individual to live and work in the UAE.

Q4. Can I apply for citizenship in the UAE through UAE Residence by Investment Program?

No, the UAE does not offer citizenship to foreign nationals.

Q5. Can I bring my family members with me to the UAE on a residency obtained through UAE Residence by Investment Program?

Yes, the program allows the investor to sponsor their family members for residency in the UAE.