UAE's New Nomination Golden Visa vs Real-Estate Visa: Key Differences Explained
The UAE has introduced a new nomination-based Golden Visa, offering a more affordable alternative to the existing real-estate-linked visa. Here’s what you need to know about the differences between the two.
UaeGolden VisaRealestate VisaNomination VisaResidencyReal Estate NewsJul 07, 2025
The UAE already has a well-established Golden Visa programme for foreign nationals, which has made the country a top destination for wealthy individuals seeking to relocate. However, the new category is somewhat different and provides a chance to immigrate without the substantial financial investment required by the real-estate-linked visa.
So, what is the difference between the two Golden Visa programmes?
According to a PTI report, the UAE government has introduced a new category of Golden Visa based on nominations as an alternative to the existing system, which requires substantial investments in local real estate. This new programme has certain conditions, but it significantly reduces the amount of money needed to obtain it.
The nomination-based system would give the applicant a long-term renewable residency in the UAE, ranging from five to ten years. The UAE's Golden Visa for life can be obtained by paying a one-time fee of AED 1,00,000 (around ₹23.30 lakh), as reported by PTI.
On the other hand, the real estate-linked visa is quite expensive. To qualify for this programme, a 10-year renewable residence visa can be purchased by purchasing one of the following:
- A property worth a minimum of AED 2 million (approximately ₹4.7 crore).
- A property worth a minimum of AED 2 million, with a loan from specific local banks.
- One or more off-plan properties worth a minimum of AED 2 million from approved local real estate companies.
This visa becomes invalid if the linked property is sold or divided. However, the new nomination visa wouldn’t have that problem.
According to Henley & Partners, the UAE continues to dominate as the top destination for wealthy migrants, with an estimated 6,700 millionaires relocating to the country by the end of 2024. The US comes next with inflows of more than 3,800 millionaires estimated last year.
With zero personal income tax, no capital gains tax, and no inheritance tax, the UAE offers a more tax-efficient environment than India, allowing individuals to preserve more of their wealth.
The introduction of the nomination-based Golden Visa is expected to attract a broader range of individuals who may not have the financial means to invest in real estate but still wish to enjoy the benefits of living in the UAE. This new visa category is a strategic move by the UAE to diversify its resident base and boost its economy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new nomination-based Golden Visa in the UAE?
The new nomination-based Golden Visa is a long-term renewable residency visa that can be obtained by paying a one-time fee of AED 1,00,000. It offers a more affordable alternative to the existing real-estate-linked visa.
How does the nomination-based Golden Visa differ from the real-estate-linked visa?
The nomination-based Golden Visa requires a one-time fee and does not depend on property ownership. The real-estate-linked visa, on the other hand, requires a significant investment in local real estate and becomes invalid if the property is sold or divided.
What are the requirements for the real-estate-linked visa?
To qualify for the real-estate-linked visa, you must purchase a property worth a minimum of AED 2 million, either outright, with a loan from specific local banks, or as an off-plan property from approved real estate companies.
Why is the UAE a popular destination for wealthy migrants?
The UAE is popular due to its zero personal income tax, no capital gains tax, and no inheritance tax, making it a tax-efficient environment. It also offers a high standard of living and world-class infrastructure.
How long is the nomination-based Golden Visa valid for?
The nomination-based Golden Visa is valid for five to ten years and is renewable, providing long-term residency in the UAE.
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