Dubai was the first emirate in the UAE to introduce freehold property ownership, allowing foreign nationals to purchase real estate. Before 2002, property ownership was restricted to UAE and GCC nationals. In 2001, the Dubai government began allowing expatriates to lease certain properties for up to 99 years. However, it wasn’t until May 2002 that Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, issued a decree enabling foreigners to buy property on a freehold basis. This marked the beginning of Dubai’s real estate boom and transformed the city into a global property investment hub​.

Freehold ownership means the property is legally owned by the buyer for life, granting them the right to sell, lease, or rent the property as they wish. Additionally, property owners and their immediate family members may be eligible for a renewable Dubai residence visa​.

In a further development, the UAE introduced a 10-year Golden Visa for property owners. This visa allows foreign nationals who purchase real estate valued at least AED 2 million to secure long-term residency in the country. The program is designed to attract foreign investment and talent, boosting the economy. The visa offers several advantages, including the ability to sponsor family members and household help, and it grants holders the freedom to travel outside the UAE without affecting their residency status​.

Property owners can also combine multiple properties to meet the AED 2 million threshold, and joint ownership with a partner can qualify as long as the investor’s share is valued at the required amount. Furthermore, off-plan properties are eligible if they meet specific criteria, such as registration in the Interim Property Register​.

This long-term residency program has made Dubai an even more attractive destination for international investors, who can now enjoy the stability of long-term residency while contributing to the city’s continued growth.