How Dubai's Golden Visa is Transforming the Real Estate Market

Since its introduction in 2019, the UAE's Golden Visa programme has significantly influenced Dubai's real estate landscape. Designed to attract long-term investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals, the initiative has not only bolstered the property market but also redefined investment strategies across the emirate.

A Surge in Demand

In 2023, Dubai's General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs issued approximately 158,000 Golden Visas, nearly doubling the 79,617 granted in 2022. This sharp increase reflects growing global confidence in Dubai’s economic resilience, quality of life, and the strength of its property sector.

Impact on Property Investment

The Golden Visa has made property investment more appealing, especially within the established thresholds. This has led to:

• Increased transaction volumes, particularly in the AED 2 million to AED 5 million bracket
• A more diverse investor base, with high-net-worth individuals and families seeking permanent residency
• Increased demand for prime locations with strong rental returns and long-term capital appreciation

Valuation Certificates and Regulatory Compliance

One of the key steps in the Golden Visa application process is obtaining a valuation certificate from a DLD-approved valuer. This ensures that the property genuinely meets the threshold required by the authorities.

At Archers, we are licensed by RERA and authorised by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) to issue valuation reports for official use. Whether you're investing in a ready property, an off-plan unit, or transferring ownership through gifting, our team delivers certified reports that are accepted by DLD for:

• Golden Visa applications
• Taqeemi certificates (official government valuation)
• Gifting transfers between family members
• Inheritance and probate matters
• Audit and corporate restructuring purposes

Valuations must follow strict DLD and IVS (International Valuation Standards) protocols. Archers is also a RICS Tech Partner, giving added confidence to investors and institutions who want transparency, consistency, and regulatory alignment.

Policy Reforms Enhancing Accessibility

Recent amendments have made the programme more inclusive:

• The minimum down payment requirement has been removed, allowing investors to use financed properties to apply (provided equity meets AED 2 million)
• Off-plan property investments are now eligible, as long as the cumulative payments made meet the threshold and the developer is DLD-approved
• Multiple properties can be combined to reach the qualifying value

These reforms have made it easier than ever to align a strategic property purchase with long-term residency goals.

Strategic Considerations for Investors

If you are considering leveraging the Golden Visa through property investment, it’s essential to:

• Conduct due diligence on the location, developer reputation, and resale potential
• Work with a licensed and DLD approved property valuation firm like Archers to ensure compliance with Golden Visa rules
• Understand how gifting, inheritance, or portfolio structuring may impact your visa eligibility
• Plan ahead for the valuation report submission and documentation requirements with the DLD

With Archers, clients benefit from an end-to-end service: inspection, valuation report issuance, coordination with legal advisors, and ongoing strategic support.

Conclusion

The Golden Visa has reshaped Dubai’s property market by turning homeownership into a residency opportunity. But behind the headlines is a process that requires professional valuation, regulatory alignment, and market insight.

As a DLD-approved, RERA-regulated valuation firm, Archers MENA is proud to support investors navigating the Golden Visa landscape with clarity, confidence, and compliance. Whether you are purchasing, gifting, or diversifying your portfolio, our valuation reports are designed to support your goals and meet official standards.

For expert support on your Golden Visa property valuation, or to request a Taqeemi certificate, speak to our team today at archersmena.com.