Spanish-language outlet Noticias.ae reports that, as of January 2026, investors can qualify for Dubai’s 10-year Golden Visa by purchasing real estate worth at least AED 2 million even if up to half the price is financed through a local mortgage. Until now, applicants had to pay the full amount in cash, a barrier that excluded buyers who preferred leverage for tax or liquidity reasons. The Dubai Land Department’s clarification opens the door to a much wider pool of medium-net-worth investors from Europe, India and the GCC who manage assets through bank financing. For corporate-relocation specialists, the change means senior executives can secure long-term residency without tying up large amounts of capital, making Dubai postings more attractive. Mortgage-backed deals must still demonstrate that at least 50 % of the property value has been paid at the time of application and that the loan is issued by a UAE-licensed bank. Tax advisers warn that residency through property does not automatically confer tax domicile; holders must still meet the 183-day physical-presence requirement or obtain a fiscal-residency certificate to gain treaty benefits. Real-estate brokers report an 18 % jump in inquiries for off-plan units in Dubai Hills Estate and Meydan since the mortgage option was publicised. The flexibility helps Dubai maintain an edge over Saudi Arabia’s nascent Premium Residency and Oman’s Investment Visa, both of which allow leveraged purchases.
Source: Noticias de Emiratos
