As tariffs reshape global markets, the UAE’s property-linked Golden Visa programme at Dh2 million maintains its competitive edge despite growing regional competition
In a world of increasing economic uncertainty, the UAE’s property-linked Golden Visa programme continues to stand out as an attractive option for global investors seeking stability. With recent market fluctuations following new tariff announcements, property investment in the UAE is positioning itself as a safe harbour for capital looking to weather economic storms.
UAE Golden Visa Maintains Edge Despite Regional Competition
While competition from other Gulf states intensifies, the UAE’s property investment programme linked to Golden Visas—requiring a minimum investment of Dh2 million—remains the gold standard for investors seeking long-term residency options.
This appeal has gained additional significance following recent market turbulence. With Trump tariffs creating waves across global markets, a fresh wave of international investors appears to be seeking stable markets for their capital.
As one leading developer’s CEO notes: “The Golden Visa property investment programme fits right into what new investors—and even many residents—want. This is why the UAE Golden Visa will remain the most coveted whatever be the competition.”
The executive added: “Depending on the location and property, it’s the best minimum Dh2 million investment buyers can make anywhere.”
Market Stability Enhances Appeal
One of the key attractions for potential investors is the current stability in property values. The dramatic double-digit increases in off-plan prices witnessed between 2022 and early 2024 have moderated, creating a more predictable environment for newcomers to the market.
Some areas have even experienced slight price corrections, making entry points more accessible for investors aiming to meet the Golden Visa threshold.
Ready Properties Gain Focus
Industry experts suggest that ready properties stand to benefit significantly from this renewed interest. As more completed homes become available, particular attention will focus on properties priced at Dh2 million and above—the threshold for Golden Visa eligibility.
Recent regulatory changes have further simplified the process, removing the requirement for buyers to make a minimum down payment of Dh1 million on a Dh2 million property purchase to qualify for the 10-year residency visa.
Libbie Burtinshaw, Head of Operations at consultancy Sovereign PPG, confirms the trend: “We are seeing a large number of interested Golden Visa applicants opting for property purchases exceeding Dh2 million to secure longer-term UAE residency.”
She adds: “Although location-dependent, outside of studio and one-bedroom apartments, the average home in a suburban (Dubai) community will typically surpass the Dh2 million threshold, making obtaining a Golden Visa alongside a property purchase a viable option for foreign investors.”
The process has also become remarkably efficient. “For a property investment (backed) Golden Visa, we are seeing it take on average between 7-10 working days to obtain,” Burtinshaw notes.
Regional Comparison: GCC Investment Programmes
Other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states have launched their own versions of long-term residency programmes, with Saudi Arabia making a concerted effort to open its residential property market to foreign investors at a minimum investment threshold of SR4 million.
Vasily Fetisov, Managing Partner at consultancy Housebook, provides context for Saudi Arabia’s ambitions: “Over a 5–7 year horizon, they expect property prices in Riyadh and Jeddah to double, and the overall Saudi property market volumes to grow 4–5 times.”
He explains that a “key driver of this growth would be a rise in the share of foreign buyers—from just a few percentage points today to at least 50% within that timeframe.”
However, challenges remain for the Saudi programme. “For now, the SAR 4 million threshold for obtaining a Golden Visa (ikama) remains high, even for many HNWIs, since Saudi Arabia is often viewed as one element of a diversified global real estate portfolio, rather than a core investment destination,” Fetisov notes.
Current market dynamics show “domestic demand is predominant in KSA, with overseas customers not exceeding 2-3% of deal share in Riyadh,” according to Fetisov.
Global Factors Favour GCC Investment Programmes
Several global trends are working in favour of Gulf investment programmes. Traditional investment destinations in Western countries are increasing—or planning to increase—property taxes. Spain has already discontinued its Golden Visa programme, and concerns persist about potential wealth taxes in some economies.
Burtinshaw highlights the UAE’s dominant position: “In terms of enquiry numbers and visa processing, the UAE currently far outperforms other regions as it not only has a larger residency programme offering, but has also generally become a very sought-after destination to live and work.”
Regional Competition Intensifies
While the UAE leads the field, other GCC nations are actively refining their offerings. “Most have higher investment requirements and more stringent eligibility criteria, making it less attainable and less enticing than the options currently offered by the UAE,” Burtinshaw explains.
She adds: “We are actively seeing other GCC countries adjusting and improving their residency offerings to be able to compete and attract foreign investment after the success of the UAE’s programmes.”
Saudi Arabia Attracts Developer Interest
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia continues to attract attention from international developers. Fetisov reveals: “We are currently working with three Russian developers who are actively exploring the Saudi Arabian market for residential and commercial projects, including hotels and co-living concepts.”
He notes that two of these developers already have projects in the UAE and experience in international expansion, while “the third developer operates in CIS markets (Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan) and has a focused interest in entering the Saudi market.”
Looking Ahead: UAE’s Golden Visa Programme
As global economic uncertainty persists, the UAE’s property-linked Golden Visa programme appears well-positioned to maintain its appeal. With its reasonable investment threshold, efficient processing, and the stability of the UAE property market, it offers international investors an attractive combination of residency rights and investment potential.
For those considering property investment in the region, the UAE’s programme continues to offer a compelling value proposition despite growing competition from neighbouring states.
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Key Takeaway
The UAE’s property-linked Golden Visa programme at Dh2 million continues to outperform regional competitors despite increasing competition from other GCC states. With global market uncertainty following Trump tariffs, the UAE’s stable property prices and streamlined visa process (7-10 working days) make it particularly attractive to international investors seeking both residency rights and safe capital deployment. While Saudi Arabia pursues ambitious growth with its SR4 million visa threshold, the UAE maintains its position as the premier destination for property investment linked to long-term residency in the Gulf region.
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