The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has recently made a significant move to attract more residents and investors by eliminating the minimum down payment requirement for the golden visa through real estate investments. Previously, individuals seeking the 10-year renewable residency program were required to make a substantial down payment, but the recent policy change aims to encourage deeper roots and stimulate increased investment in the country.
Background:
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Introduced in 2019, the golden visa program offers a 10-year residency to investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, exceptional talents, scientists, outstanding students, property investors, and humanitarian pioneers. The initial requirement for property investors was to acquire real estate valued at Dh2 million or above, with a minimum down payment of Dh1 million for mortgage or installment plans. However, this financial barrier has now been removed, making the golden visa more accessible to a broader range of investors.
Details of the Policy Change:
The recent modification eliminates the need for any minimum down payment, allowing investors to qualify for the golden visa if the property’s value is Dh2 million or more, irrespective of whether it is off-plan, completed, mortgaged, or not mortgaged. While the change has been confirmed by legal sources, the Dubai Land Department’s Cube website and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website are yet to be updated.
Implications for Investors:
The removal of the minimum down payment requirement is expected to have a positive impact on both local and foreign investors. Maroun Abou Harb, an associate at law firm BSA Ahmad bin Hezeem & Associates, believes that this change will stimulate increased investment in the real estate sector, fostering a surge in transactions, construction activities, job creation, and overall economic growth associated with the real estate industry.
Benefits for Buyers:
The elimination of the down payment requirement opens up the golden visa option to a broader segment of buyers, including those who opt for mortgage or installment plans. Investors can now qualify for the golden visa by simply meeting the property value threshold of Dh2 million, thereby promoting buyer confidence in the city.
Market Impact:
Experts anticipate that this policy change will not only attract new investors but also instill confidence in existing stakeholders, contributing to the stability and long-term vitality of the UAE’s real estate market. The focus on the property’s overall value, rather than a specific down payment, is seen as a strategic response to market dynamics, potentially counteracting predictions of a market downturn.
Conclusion:
The UAE’s decision to lift the minimum down payment requirement for the golden visa through real estate investments marks a significant step in aligning policies with market needs. By making the golden visa more accessible, the government aims to stimulate investment, promote economic growth, and maintain the UAE’s position as an attractive destination for residents and investors alike. As the real estate sector adjusts to these changes, stakeholders can anticipate a positive impact on the market dynamics in the coming months.