Dubai’s 99-Year Visa vs. Golden Visa: Who Qualifies & How to Apply?

We all must have different views about Dubai. But we can all come to a mutual ground when me say- Dubai has become a magnet for investors, entrepreneurs, and professionals. And this is specifically true for the ones looking to secure long-term residency.

But when it comes to residency options, one term often sparks curiosity—the 99-year visa in Dubai. Is it real? Or just a misunderstood concept? And is it the same as the Dubai Golden Visa and other UAE long-term residency programs?

So many questions, but what’s the truth behind the 99-year visa? Does it actually grant near-permanent residency, or is it simply linked to property ownership rights? Don’t worry it is not as difficult as it sounds. By the end of the article, I promise you will have the full picture—clear, simple, and ready to make your next move.

What is the 99-Year Visa in Dubai?

The “99-year visa” in Dubai, or more like the 99-year lease, refers to a system that allows foreign nationals to acquire long-term leasehold rights that is the right to use, sell, and transfer the property for 99 years, but not ownership of the land itself.

To be clear, the 99-year visa is not an official visa category but the term rather became famous after getting confused with Dubai’s 99-year property ownership rights/law for expats. This means that Dubai does not offer a direct 99-year visa, but property investors can obtain renewable long-term residency visas, such as the Dubai 10-year Golden Visa scheme or Dubai’s 99-year property ownership law.

In short, The 99-year visa is often linked to property ownership rights in places like UAE where foreign nationals can obtain this visa if they buy certain properties. However, it doesn’t grant permanent residency in the same way some countries do. Yes, here comes the twist- As it rather provides long-term residency, typically for the duration of the visa, but it can still be subject to renewal and the terms set by the country or region offering it.

So, you can say- Dubai’s 99-year visa is more of a long-term stay, sometimes coupled with the right to live and work in the country, but it’s not the same as a permanent residency or citizenship. This provides foreign nationals, particularly investors and business professionals, with extended stability and security

Benefits of the 99-Year Visa

• Long-Term Residency: Say goodbye to constant visa renewals! Because, the 99-year visa offers long-term stability, making it easier for families and individuals to build a secure future in the UAE. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or retiree, this visa ensures you can stay without hassle.

• Investment Opportunities: With long-term residency comes access to lucrative investment options in real estate, technology, and various other sectors. The UAE’s business-friendly environment makes it an ideal destination for ambitious investors looking to grow their wealth.
  
• Real Estate Ownership: Expats with this visa enjoy greater flexibility in purchasing property, allowing them to invest in high-value markets like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Owning property in the UAE can provide both financial security and potential rental income, making it a smart long-term asset.

Eligibility Criteria for 99-Year Visa in Dubai

We have seen how a 99-year visa is a gateway to long-term stability in the UAE, designed for investors, entrepreneurs, and high-impact contributors to the economy. But to qualify, applicants must showcase strong financial standing, a clean investment track record, and a commitment to driving growth in the region. Here are the key guidelines in detail-

Property Ownership Eligibility

1. Must purchase property in Dubai (or other UAE emirates) in designated freehold areas.
2. The property must be worth at least AED 750,000 ($204,000) to qualify for a 3-year residency visa.
3. For the 10-year Golden Visa, the property investment must be at least AED 2 million ($545,000).

Business & Investment Criteria 

1. Entrepreneurs and investors in the UAE can apply for long-term residency visas by setting up companies or investing in sectors like real estate and technology.
2. Holding shares in a UAE company or owning a startup may qualify for extended residency.

Retiree Residency (For 55+ Age Group)

• Retirees can apply for long-term residency if they meet one of these conditions:
  • Own property worth at least AED 1 million ($272,000).
  • Have a minimum monthly income of AED 20,000 ($5,500).

Employment-Based Residency

• Highly skilled professionals, including doctors, engineers, and scientists, can apply for the 10-year UAE Golden Visa under special talent categories.
• Requires proof of qualifications, experience, and salary threshold.

Is the 99-year visa the key to unlocking long-term stability in Dubai? Let’s explore its connection to property ownership and how it stacks up against other residency options in the UAE!

Dubai’s 99-Year Visa Application Process

As expected- Applicants are required to provide comprehensive documentation, including proof of investment, recent financial statements, and personal identification. Additionally, consulting legal practitioners is advisable to navigate the application process effectively and avoid potential pitfalls. ​

Here’s a step-by-step guide to securing long-term residency:

1. Choose Your Eligibility Path

Before applying, determine your eligibility under one of the following categories:

• Property Investment
• Business & Entrepreneurship
• Retirement Visa
• Skilled Professionals

2. Gather Required Documents

• Valid passport & visa copies.
• Property ownership documents (if applying via real estate investment).
• Proof of financial stability (bank statements, salary proof, or business ownership).
• Health insurance (as per UAE regulations).
• Police clearance certificate to verify a clean legal record.

3. Submit Your Application 

• Apply through the Dubai Land Department (DLD) for property-based residency.
• Business investors can apply via Dubai Economy & Tourism (DET) or free zone authorities.
• Golden Visa applications are processed through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP).

4.  Undergo Security & Medical Checks

• Complete a medical fitness test and obtain a valid Emirates ID.
• Background verification and financial due diligence may be conducted.

5. Approval & Residency Issuance

•  Once approved, receive your long-term UAE residency visa (3, 5, or 10 years).
• Visa holders can sponsor family members and enjoy benefits like business ownership and unrestricted travel within the UAE.

Dubai Golden Visa: The UAE’s Long-Term Residency Program

Still have a number of questions? Don’t worry, understanding the Dubai Golden Visa and its differences from the 99-Year Visa- might clear things up a bit.

The Dubai Golden Visa is clearly one of the most attractive residency options for investors, entrepreneurs, as well as for skilled professionals. It allows long-term residence in the UAE and comes in 5-year and 10-year options. Amazing, right? But before you start celebrating- remember it does come with specific terms and conditions.

Eligibility Criteria for the Dubai Golden Visa

Dubai’s Golden Visa demands certain eligibility terms-

• Property Investors: Must invest at least AED 2 million in real estate.
• Entrepreneurs: Must own a startup registered in the UAE.
• Highly Skilled Professionals: Includes doctors, engineers, and researchers in key sectors.
• Exceptional Talents: Artists, innovators, and outstanding students.

Difference btw the Dubai 99-Year Visa and the Dubai Golden Visa

Many confuse the 99-year visa with Dubai’s Golden Visa, but they serve different purposes. Here’s a breakdown of how they compare:

Feature	99-Year Visa	Dubai Golden Visa
Nature	Property ownership right allowing expats to own real estate for 99 years in freehold zones.	Long-term residency visa (5 or 10 years) granted to investors, skilled professionals, and entrepreneurs.
Residency Status	Does not automatically grant UAE residency.	Provides official UAE residency, allowing long-term stay.
Eligibility	Available to property buyers in freehold areas.	Available to investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, and top talent in various sectors.
Validity	99 years (renewable based on property ownership).	5 or 10 years (renewable upon meeting criteria).
Family Sponsorship	Not applicable for residency purposes.	Visa holders can sponsor spouses, children, and domestic staff.
Work & Business Rights	No impact on employment; linked to property ownership only.	Visa holders can work, start businesses, and invest in the UAE.
Application Process	Acquired automatically when purchasing freehold property in Dubai.	Requires an application through Dubai Immigration, ICP, or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
Main Purpose	Ensures long-term property ownership security for expats.	Provides long-term residency benefits to investors and professionals.

Dubai Residency by Investment: How Property Owners Can Qualify

Residential and Investment plans vary from person to person. So, conditioning any one option won’t work. Therefore, UAE property investment visa programs allow investors to obtain long-term residency. The main options include:

3-Year Residency Visa

• Requires a property investment of at least AED 750,000.
• Renewable as long as the property is retained.

5-Year Residency Visa

• Requires an investment of AED 2 million.
• Allows family sponsorship.

10-Year Golden Visa

• Requires an investment of AED 2 million or more.
• Includes spouses, children, and household staff under sponsorship.

Does Dubai Offer Permanent Residency?

Unfortunately, No- Dubai does not have a direct permanent residency program, but long-term visas are renewable. This gives access to permanent residency options for investors and skilled professionals in Dubai. Definitely, a win-win- for both sides!

Advantages of UAE 99-Year Visa & Golden Visa

Holding a UAE long-term visa provides numerous advantages:

• No Need for a Local Sponsor– Golden Visa holders can live, work, or study in the UAE without employer sponsorship.
• Business & Investment Freedom– Investors can operate businesses and own property rights for certain years.
• Family Sponsorship– Visa holders can sponsor spouses and children.
• Access to Financial Services– Easier access to banking, loans, and other financial benefits.

Dubai Visa for Property Owners & Entrepreneurs

Dubai has also introduced special residency programs for entrepreneurs and property owners:

• Dubai visa for property owners: Investors purchasing properties worth AED 750,000+ qualify for renewable visas.
• Dubai residency for entrepreneurs: Startup owners and business investors can apply for 5- and 10-year visas.

Conclusion

Is the 99-year visa in Dubai real? Not quite! While no official 99-year visa exists, Dubai offers something even better– long-term residency through the Dubai Golden Visa and property investment visas

With flexible investment options, renewable residency, and business-friendly policies, these programs open doors for investors, entrepreneurs, and other interested buyers to call Dubai home. So, if you want to secure a future in the UAE with long-term residency, you know exactly what to do.

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