Real Estate Developers in UAE Building Projects That Qualify for the Golden Visa

The UAE continues to attract international investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals with its futuristic cities, zero income tax policy, and lifestyle appeal. But perhaps one of the most compelling incentives in recent years has been the UAE Golden Visaa long-term residency program that offers 10-year renewable visas to eligible investors. One of the most accessible routes to this visa is real estate investment, and a growing number of real estate developers in UAE are now launching projects designed to meet Golden Visa requirements.

In this blog, well explore how top developers are tailoring their offerings for visa-seeking investors, what makes a property eligible, and which communities or projects are worth watching in 2025.

What Is the UAE Golden Visa for Property Investors?

The UAE Golden Visa allows foreign nationals to live, work, and study in the Emirates without the need for a national sponsor. In the case of property investors, applicants can obtain a 10-year residency visa if they purchase real estate worth AED 2 million or more (approx. USD 545,000).

Eligible investments include:

• Off-plan or ready properties (in select cases)

• Joint ownership (if individual share is AED 2M+)

• Mortgaged properties, as long as AED 2M is paid off

• Multiple units combining to meet the AED 2M threshold

With the high global demand for residency-linked investment, real estate developers in UAE are now creating tailored solutionsespecially in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjahto help foreign investors secure long-term residency through strategic property purchases.

What Developers Are Offering Golden Visa-Ready Projects?

1. Emaar Properties

One of the largest and most trusted real estate developers in UAE, Emaar has long been behind iconic communities like Downtown Dubai, Dubai Hills Estate, and Arabian Ranches. Many of their new villas, apartments, and waterfront units are priced above the AED 2 million mark and come with documentation ready for Golden Visa application.

Top Emaar Projects for Visa Seekers:

• The Oasis by Emaar (luxury villas starting AED 6.5M)

• Dubai Creek Harbour (waterfront towers with premium units)

• Downtown Views II (Downtown freehold apartments)

2. DAMAC Properties

DAMAC, known for its luxury developments and branded residences, also offers a wide selection of Golden Visa-eligible properties. Their flexible post-handover payment plans make it easier for investors to acquire high-value units across Dubai.

Top DAMAC Projects That Qualify:

• DAMAC Lagoons (standalone villas and townhouses)

• Cavalli Tower (branded luxury apartments in Dubai Marina)

• DAMAC Bay by Cavalli (beachfront twin towers)

3. Sobha Realty

Sobha is rapidly growing its reputation as a premium, design-first real estate developer in UAE, especially in the MBR City area. Their projects are ideal for end-users and long-term investors looking for quality craftsmanship and long-term returns.

Visa-Eligible Projects by Sobha:

• Sobha Hartland Villas and One Park Avenue

• Sobha SeaHaven (Dubai Harbour branded towers)

• Sobha Reserve (ultra-luxury gated villas near Al Qudra)

4. Azizi Developments

Azizi offers both luxury and mid-market units, and several of their flagship projects meet the AED 2 million Golden Visa threshold. Known for quick construction and handover, Azizi is also expanding into newer areas like Dubai South and Meydan.

Golden Visa-Friendly Azizi Projects:

• Azizi Riviera Mansion units (select larger configurations)

• Azizi Venice (waterfront community near Dubai South)

• Azizi Mina (Palm Jumeirah beachfront residences)

5. Aldar Properties (Abu Dhabi)

Aldar is the most prominent developer in the capital, Abu Dhabi. Many of their villas and waterfront homes fall within the Golden Visa criteria, especially in new destinations like Yas Island and Saadiyat.

Aldar Projects Qualifying for Golden Visa:

• Yas Acres and Saadiyat Lagoons

• Grove Museum Views (luxury near Louvre Abu Dhabi)

• Al Gurm Resort Villas

What Makes a Project Golden Visa-Ready?

While real estate developers in UAE may offer high-value properties, not all will automatically qualify for a Golden Visa. Heres what you need to look for:

• Price Threshold: Minimum investment of AED 2 million per applicant.

• Title Deed or Oqood: Proof of purchase must be registered with the Dubai Land Department (or local municipality).

• Payment Status: For mortgaged properties, at least AED 2M must be paid.

• Ownership Type: Property must be in a freehold zone and registered under the buyers name.

Some developers now offer visa concierge services, helping you collect the necessary paperwork (title deed, NOC, bank statements, and Emirates ID processing) after purchase.

Why Developers Are Adapting to the Visa Market

With growing global interest in residency-linked real estate, developers in the UAE are adapting their sales strategies. Many are:

• Bundling property purchases with legal and visa services

• Creating marketing packages that highlight visa eligibility

• Offering larger unit sizes or villa options that meet the price threshold

• Working directly with immigration lawyers or PROs

This trend is especially visible in luxury branded residences and waterfront developments aimed at international investors looking for both lifestyle and legal residency.

Final Thoughts

The intersection of long-term residency and real estate investment is changing how properties are developed and marketed across the Emirates. Leading real estate developers in UAE are now creating and positioning projects specifically to meet the AED 2 million Golden Visa thresholdwhether through design, price, or added services.

If you're a foreign investor looking to secure your place in the UAE while gaining a 10-year renewable visa, the right developer and project can make all the difference. From ultra-luxury villas in Dubai to beachfront homes in Abu Dhabi, the UAE real estate market in 2025 is ripe with opportunityfor both living and long-term stability.