If you are wondering, “Can two people co-own a 2M AED property to get separate Golden Visas?” you are not alone. This is a common scenario among investors in Dubai, and the answer hinges on specific eligibility rules set out by the UAE authorities. In this article, we will cut through the noise and provide a clear, actionable explanation of how co-ownership affects Golden Visa qualification, helping you make informed property decisions in the heart of Dubai.
Understanding the UAE Golden Visa for Property Investors
The UAE Golden Visa has become a prime route for investors seeking long-term residency in Dubai. By owning property valued at a minimum of AED 2 million, investors are granted a 10-year renewable residency visa, offering stability and security unmatched by standard short-term visas. The Golden Visa scheme is designed to attract talent and wealth to the region, assisting investors, retirees, and families in establishing themselves in Dubai’s thriving real estate market.
With this visa, you enjoy expansive benefits: you can sponsor your immediate family members, access banking and business services, and benefit from Dubai’s zero personal income tax and lack of capital gains and inheritance taxes. For many, the Golden Visa is a strategic avenue for international wealth planning, particularly as Dubai’s neighborhoods—like Jumeirah Village Circle, Downtown Dubai, and Dubai Marina—remain highly sought-after for both lifestyle and investment returns.
Individual vs. Co-Ownership: Key Golden Visa Requirements
Prospective buyers often want to co-own property with friends, siblings, or business partners to qualify for the Golden Visa. Here’s the critical point: UAE property regulations set the minimum threshold for Golden Visa eligibility at AED 2 million per applicant—not AED 2 million per property, regardless of the number of owners.
If two people co-own a property valued at AED 2 million, each person’s share is typically considered to be AED 1 million. Unfortunately, this means neither co-owner individually meets the investment threshold required for a separate Golden Visa. Only if an individual’s share in the property equals or exceeds AED 2 million can they apply for this long-term residency on their own. This is a common area of confusion, as some believe the property’s total value suffices when, in fact, the authorities focus on the ownership share.
The 2 Million AED Threshold: How it Applies to Co-Owned Property
Let’s clarify how the threshold is applied in practice. To be eligible, each applicant must prove real estate ownership worth at least AED 2 million. For joint investments, the value is proportionally divided based on each person’s share registered on the title deed.
For example, if a property in Dubai Marina is valued at AED 2.5 million and owned equally by two business partners, each holds a AED 1.25 million stake—still below the qualifying limit. In this scenario, neither partner qualifies individually. However, if a single individual owns AED 2 million or more within a co-owned or multiple properties, they are eligible to apply for the visa. This detail is crucial for investment partnerships aiming to maximize visa benefits.
Example: Joint Property Among Friends
Consider two friends eyeing a ready unit from Danube Properties in Jumeirah Village Circle for AED 2 million. If they each invest AED 1 million, neither can obtain a separate Golden Visa. For both to qualify, they would need to co-own a property (or properties) where each person’s share is valued at AED 2 million or more.
Co-Ownership Scenarios: Spouse, Family, and Business Partners
There is a notable exception for married couples: spouses listed jointly on a property deed can often pool their shares to meet the AED 2 million requirement, enabling a shared or dependent Golden Visa. However, this exception typically does not extend to business partners, friends, or extended family; each non-spouse co-owner must individually reach the investment threshold.
Therefore, when planning a joint real estate investment for Golden Visa purposes, partners should consider purchasing two separate units or increasing their respective shares to AED 2 million each.
Navigating Co-Ownership: Practical Steps and Legal Considerations
If securing a Golden Visa is your primary objective, coordinate with your co-investor and legal advisor early in the process. Carefully review the title deed structure to ensure it aligns with visa eligibility. Consider the longer-term implications of sharing ownership, including exit strategies and asset division.
Additionally, work with an experienced Dubai real estate professional familiar with both the Golden Visa regulations and local market dynamics. They can help you identify suitable properties and structure deals that maximize both your investment returns and residency aspirations.
Common Misconceptions About Golden Visa and Joint Property
One prevalent misconception is that simply participating in an AED 2 million property investment with friends or business partners guarantees separate Golden Visas for all co-owners. In reality, the UAE’s regulations are clear: each applicant’s qualifying investment must be AED 2 million or more.
Why Choose Danube Properties for Your Golden Visa Investment?
Danube Properties offers a portfolio of strategically located projects across Dubai, featuring competitive payment plans and amenities tailored for international investors. Whether you are aiming for individual residency or planning a family move, choosing the right property developer is crucial to ensuring your Golden Visa journey is seamless and successful.
In summary, two people cannot each secure a separate Golden Visa by co-owning a single AED 2 million property unless their individual shares are AED 2 million or more.
