Dubai Golden Visa attracts new wave of property buyers

Dubai’s Golden Visa policy, which offers a 10-year renewable residency to property investors committing at least Dh2 million, has significantly reshaped the emirate’s real estate landscape. The streamlined eligibility criteria, which eliminated the previous Dh1 million or 50% down payment requirement, have positioned Dubai as a dual hub for investment and lifestyle. According to Rebiha Helimi, CEO and Founder of RH Luxury Properties, this policy has become a pivotal factor in attracting global wealth and reshaping investor behavior in 2025. Data from the Dubai Land Department reveals a 36% increase in real estate transaction volume and a 20% rise in value in 2024, totaling Dh761 billion. In the first half of 2025 alone, transactions surged by 26%, with off-plan projects accounting for nearly 70% of deals. Premium residential prices have also climbed, with villas averaging Dh2,088 per square meter. Helimi highlights that many clients now view visa processing and property acquisition as integral components of a strategic plan to leverage Dubai’s offerings. The policy has not only boosted liquidity in the luxury segment but also attracted long-term investors seeking profitability in a politically neutral jurisdiction. Analysts predict that around 9,800 millionaires will relocate to the UAE in 2025, bringing an estimated USD 63 billion in investable wealth. This migration is fueling Dubai’s high-end housing market, reinforcing its global appeal as a hub for asset diversification amid global economic uncertainties.