If you are wondering, “Can I get a Golden Visa if I co-own a property with my friend in Dubai?” you are not alone. Many property investors want clear guidance on whether shared ownership with a non-family member, such as a friend, can make both parties eligible for the UAE’s prestigious Golden Visa. This article explores the details, eligibility thresholds, and steps you need to consider before investing with a friend in Dubai.
Understanding the UAE Golden Visa for Property Investors
The UAE Golden Visa is a 10-year renewable residency visa designed to attract high-net-worth individuals and long-term investors. For property investors, the critical requirement is a real estate investment of at least AED 2 million. This program is not just about residency—it provides family sponsorship, access to local banking, and long-term stability in Dubai’s thriving real estate market. Importantly, there is no continuous stay requirement. Visa holders only need to set foot in the UAE once every two years to maintain their status. This flexibility makes Dubai property investments especially attractive for international buyers or those seeking to maximize global mobility.
Dubai’s tax environment adds to the appeal. Golden Visa holders, like other residents, benefit from zero personal income tax, no capital gains tax, and no inheritance tax—key factors in long-term wealth planning and legacy management.
Co-Ownership in Dubai: The Basics and Legal Framework
Co-owning a property with a friend or non-family member is perfectly legal in Dubai. The Dubai Land Department treats each co-owner as a named, recognized shareholder, with the ownership split clearly detailed in the property’s Title Deed. This flexibility has opened up real estate investment to a wider audience—allowing friends, business partners, or even investment groups to enter the Dubai property market together.
When buying off-plan or ready property, both co-owners appear on the Title Deed. Your respective shares are legally protected, and you can both finance your share through a bank or pay in cash, depending on your financial arrangement.
Golden Visa Eligibility for Co-Owned Property: Key Requirements
For the UAE Golden Visa, the central eligibility threshold is the AED 2 million investment per applicant. If you and your friend co-own a single property worth AED 4 million, and both names appear on the Title Deed with a 50-50 split, each of you would have a share valued at AED 2 million. In this scenario, both co-owners can qualify for the Golden Visa individually. However, if the property’s total value is less than AED 4 million, and your individual share falls below AED 2 million, you would not meet the requirement.
This rule is strictly enforced regardless of your familial relationship—married couples, friends, and non-related investors are evaluated independently based on their share.
Can Both You and Your Friend Qualify for a Golden Visa?
Let’s address the core question: yes, both you and your friend can qualify for the UAE Golden Visa as co-owners, provided each share in the property meets or exceeds AED 2 million. The law does not restrict eligibility to married couples or immediate family members. Proof of the share value is established through the official Title Deed issued by the Dubai Land Department.
Example: Co-Ownership Scenario
Suppose two friends purchase an apartment in Downtown Dubai valued at AED 4.5 million. Each friend owns 50%, so each individual’s share equals AED 2.25 million. Both co-owners are eligible to apply for individual Golden Visas. If the property is valued at AED 3 million and shares are 50-50, each co-owner’s share would be AED 1.5 million—falling short of the requirement. In this case, neither would qualify through co-ownership.
Navigating the Application Process for Co-Owners
Both parties must apply separately to the relevant UAE immigration authority, submitting their individual Title Deed showing the AED 2 million share. It’s essential to work with registered property agents and legal consultants to ensure your co-ownership structure is properly documented from the outset. If your investment was financed through a mortgage, you may need to show bank statements or payment receipts to support your application.
Plan, as having an equal split, simplifies documentation. For unequal splits or more complex arrangements, consult a legal advisor in Dubai for accuracy.
Potential Pitfalls and Important Considerations for Co-Owners
Co-ownership can be financially and professionally rewarding, but there are important considerations:
- If your share falls below AED 2 million, you are not eligible for the Golden Visa.
- Changes in property value after purchase do not impact eligibility; the value at the time of Title Deed issuance applies.
- Consider pre-agreeing on future exit strategies or buy-out options with your co-owner to avoid legal complications.
Why Choose Danube Properties for Your Golden Visa Journey
Partnering with Danube Properties ensures you work with an experienced team in Dubai’s vibrant real estate market. Our portfolio includes projects in sought-after areas like Jumeirah Village Circle and Downtown Dubai, and our consultants can guide you and your co-owner through every step of the purchase and Golden Visa process.
In summary: you and your friend can both secure a Dubai Golden Visa by co-owning property, as long as each of your shares is valued at AED 2 million or above. To learn more about Golden Visa eligibility and tailored property solutions, contact Danube Properties.
