If you’re planning to start a business or make an investment in the UAE, the Dubai Investor Visa is one of the most valuable residency options available in 2025.
It allows foreign investors to live, work, and sponsor their families, while building or expanding their business in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.
In this guide, we’ll explain:
- What the investor visa is
- The eligibility criteria
- The step-by-step process
- Cost and timeline
- Common mistakes to avoid
What Is an Investor Visa in Dubai?
An Investor Visa (also known as a Partner Visa) is a residency visa issued to foreign nationals who invest in a business or property in the UAE.
It grants the holder:
✅ 2–10 years of residency (depending on investment type)
✅ Permission to live and work in Dubai
✅ Ability to sponsor family members and domestic staff
✅ Access to UAE banking, healthcare, and education
There are two main categories in 2025:
| Visa Type | Minimum Investment | Validity | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business / Company Investor Visa | AED 50,000+ company share value | 3 years | Founders, shareholders, partners |
| Property Investor Visa | AED 1 million+ property value | 2–5 years | Real estate investors |
If you haven’t yet registered your business, learn how in our guide on How to Start a Business in Dubai Step-by-Step.
Eligibility Requirements (2025 Update)
To qualify for an Investor Visa in Dubai, you must meet the following conditions:
For Business Investors
- Own or invest in a UAE-licensed company
- Hold shares worth AED 50,000 or more
- Have a valid trade license (mainland or free zone)
- Provide a memorandum of association (MOA) showing ownership
You can explore affordable company formation options on our Freezone Company Formation page.
For Property Investors
- Own property worth at least AED 1 million
- Property must be completed (not off-plan) and in your name
- Proof of ownership via title deed from the Dubai Land Department (DLD)
Documents Required for Investor Visa in Dubai
Here’s what you’ll need to apply:
📄 Passport copy (valid for 6+ months)
📄 UAE entry permit (if applying from outside)
📄 Company trade license or title deed
📄 Bank statement (6 months)
📄 Medical fitness test result
📄 Emirates ID application form
📄 Passport-size photos (white background)
Tip: If you’re applying from abroad, Startup Works can manage your documentation remotely and securely.
Step-by-Step Process to Get an Investor Visa in Dubai
This process can be completed in 7–15 working days with the help of a licensed UAE Business Setup Consultant.
Step 1: Apply for an Entry Permit
If you’re outside the UAE, an entry permit is issued first (valid for 60 days).
Step 2: Get a Medical Fitness Test
Once inside the UAE, visit an approved medical center for your blood test and X-ray.
See official list: Dubai Health Authority – Medical Fitness Centers
Step 3: Apply for Emirates ID
Submit your biometric data (fingerprints, photo) for the Emirates ID through the ICP Smart Services portal.
Step 4: Get Visa Stamping
Submit your passport to the immigration department for visa stamping.
Step 5: Register for UAE Residency
After approval, you’ll receive your residency visa and Emirates ID, valid for 2–10 years depending on the investment type.
Investor Visa Cost in Dubai (2025)
The total cost varies based on visa type and duration.
| Type | Estimated Cost | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Business Investor Visa | AED 4,500 – AED 7,000 | 3 years |
| Property Investor Visa | AED 7,000 – AED 9,500 | 2–5 years |
| Golden Visa (10-year investor visa) | AED 9,800 – AED 11,500 | 10 years |
Startup Works offers investor visa support bundled with business setup packages in Dubai starting from AED 4,999.
Can You Apply for an Investor Visa Remotely?
Yes, in 2025, Dubai allows remote investor visa applications through authorized business setup consultancies like Startup Works.
You can complete the entire process digitally:
- Submit documents via email
- Sign authorizations electronically
- Receive your visa while abroad
Read also: Can You Start a UAE Business While Living Abroad?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Investing in unlicensed or off-plan projects
🚫 Submitting expired trade licenses or old MOAs
🚫 Missing medical test or Emirates ID deadlines
🚫 Not maintaining minimum share value (AED 50,000)
Avoid compliance issues with expert help. Learn more in our guide on UAE Corporate Tax for Entrepreneurs.
Why Get Your Investor Visa Through Startup Works
At Startup Works, we simplify your entire investor visa process, from company setup to visa stamping and renewals.
Our services include:
✔ Trade license + visa combo packages
✔ Assistance with PRO and documentation
✔ Corporate bank account opening
✔ Visa renewals and compliance
Talk to our experts today and get your Investor Visa in just 7 days.
Contact Startup Works
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can I bring my family with an investor visa?
Yes. You can sponsor your spouse, children, and parents after obtaining your investor visa.
See official UAE family visa rules.
Q2. How long is the Dubai investor visa valid?
Typically 3 years for business investors and 2–5 years for property investors.
Q3. Can I get UAE citizenship through the investor visa?
Not directly, but long-term Golden Visa holders may qualify for permanent residency.
Q4. Can I apply for an investor visa without visiting Dubai?
Yes. Startup Works can handle remote processing for international investors.
Q5. What happens if I cancel my trade license?
The visa automatically becomes invalid. You’ll need to renew your license to maintain residency.
Conclusion
Getting an Investor Visa in Dubai is one of the smartest ways to build your future in the UAE.
It opens doors to residency, business freedom, and world-class opportunities, all in a tax-free economy.
Whether you’re a founder, partner, or global entrepreneur, Dubai welcomes your investment with speed and simplicity.
Start your investor visa process today with Startup Works , your trusted UAE Business Setup Consultant.
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