Key Highlights:

• Golden Visa holders (AED 2 million+ property investment) can stay outside the UAE indefinitely
• Other investor visa types may still require 6-month visits or re-entry permits
• Investment thresholds must be maintained throughout the visa period
• Family sponsorship benefits vary by visa type, with Golden Visas offering the most comprehensive options

If you’re considering investing in Dubai property or already hold an investor visa, you’ve probably heard conflicting information about the notorious “6-month rule.” 

The good news? Recent changes in UAE regulations have significantly relaxed these requirements, making Dubai an even more attractive destination for global investors.

Read on to learn more. 

Understanding Dubai Investor Visas

Dubai offers several types of investor visas designed to attract foreign investment and talent to the emirate. These include:

• 2-Year Property Investor Visa: Available for property investments starting at AED 750,000
• 5-Year Property Investor Visa: Requires a minimum property investment of AED 2 million
• 10-Year Golden Visa: Available for property investments of AED 2 million or more or business investments of AED 10 million
• Green Residence Visa: A 5-year self-sponsored residency for qualifying investors and company partners with AED 1 million capital contribution

The UAE government has continuously updated these policies throughout 2025 to make them more investor-friendly and accessible.

The 6-Month Rule: What Has Changed in 2025?

• The Old Rule

Previously, most UAE residence visa holders were required to enter the country every 6 months (180 days) to maintain their residency status. Staying outside the UAE for more than 6 months could result in visa cancellation or the need for a re-entry permit.

• The Game-Changing Update

Here’s the crucial update that many investors don’t know about: Golden Visa holders are now completely exempt from the 6-month entry requirement.

According to recent UAE government announcements, the 6-month limit on staying abroad for Golden Visa holders has been abolished. This means if you hold a Golden Visa through property investment (AED 2 million+) or business investment, you can stay outside the UAE indefinitely as long as your visa remains valid.

• What About Other Investor Visas?

For other types of investor visas (2-year and some 5-year variants), the traditional 6-month rule may still apply. However, investors can apply for re-entry permits if they need to stay outside the UAE for extended periods.

Also Read: 10 Reasons Why Foreign Investors Choose Dubai for Business

How Long Can You Stay Outside the UAE with an Investor Visa?

• Golden Visa/Property Investor Visa (AED 2 million+): You can stay outside the UAE for unlimited periods without affecting your residency status.
• Other Investor Visas: The 6-month rule typically applies, meaning you should enter the UAE at least once every 180 days.
• Re-entry Permits: If you need to stay outside for more than 6 months on a standard investor visa, you can apply for a re-entry permit through ICP services.

What Happens If You Stay Outside the UAE for More Than 6 Months?

1. For Golden Visa Holders

Absolutely nothing negative happens. Your visa remains valid, and you can return to the UAE at any time during the visa’s validity period.

2. For Other Investor Visa Types

If you exceed the 6-month limit, you may need to:

• Apply for a re-entry permit before returning
• Pay fines of AED 100 for each 30-day period spent abroad beyond the grace period
• Enter the UAE within 30 days of re-entry permit approval

The re-entry permit application can be submitted online through ICP Smart Services or GDRFA websites.

Additional Requirements to Keep Your Investor Visa Valid

1. Maintaining Investment Thresholds

You must maintain the minimum investment amount throughout your visa validity period. For property investors, this means

• AED 750,000 minimum for 2-year visas
• AED 2 million minimum for Golden Visa eligibility

Important note: Property values can fluctuate, so it’s wise to invest slightly above the minimum threshold to account for market changes.

2. Renewal Requirements

All investor visas are renewable, provided you continue to meet the investment criteria. The renewal process typically requires

• Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
• Updated medical fitness certificate
• Proof of maintained investment
• Emirates ID renewal

Cost considerations: Renewal fees vary by emirate, with Dubai charging AED 300-400 for 1-year renewals and AED 600-700 for 2-year renewals. Keep in mind that these fees tend to change, so always verify current rates before making renewal decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need to visit Dubai every 6 months to keep my investor visa?

For Golden Visa holders (AED 2 million+ property investment): No, you do not need to visit Dubai every 6 months.

For other investor visa types, generally yes, the 6-month rule still applies, but re-entry permits are available for extended stays abroad.

2. What if my property value drops below the required threshold?

You should monitor your property’s value regularly, as falling below the minimum threshold could affect your visa renewal eligibility. Consider investing above the minimum requirement as a buffer against market fluctuations.

3. Can I rent out my property while holding an investor visa?

Yes, most investor visas allow you to rent out your property, providing an additional income stream while maintaining your residency status.

4. Can I work in Dubai while on an investor visa?

Property investor visa holders typically cannot work for other companies and are limited to activities related to their investment.

Golden Visa holders have more flexibility and can obtain work permits more easily.

5. Can I sponsor my family with an investor visa?

Golden Visa holders can sponsor spouses, children, and even parents.

Other investor visas can typically sponsor spouses and children, with boys sponsored until age 25 and unmarried daughters with no age limit.

6. Is there a difference between free zone and mainland investor visas?

Freezone visas: Allow 100% foreign ownership but limit business operations to the free zone and international markets.

Mainland visas: Previously required local sponsors but now allow 100% foreign ownership in many sectors, with unrestricted UAE market access.

Practical Tips

How to Check Your Visa Status

You can monitor your investor visa status through several online channels:

• ICP website: For all emirates except Dubai
• GDRFA Dubai website: Specifically for Dubai-issued visas
• DubaiNow app: Mobile app for Dubai visa inquiries
• GDRFA-Dubai app: Dedicated mobile application for visa status checks

Getting Official Assistance

For official clarification on your specific situation, contact

• ICP: 600522222 (toll-free within UAE)
• AMER services: 800 5111 (UAE) or +971-4-313-9999 (international)
• Typing centers: Licensed service providers that can assist with applications and renewals

Community Resources

Many expatriate communities share practical experiences through online forums, but always verify information through official UAE government sources before making important decisions.

Final Word 

The landscape for Dubai investor visas has become significantly more flexible in 2025, particularly for Golden Visa holders, who are now exempt from the 6-month visit requirement. This change reinforces Dubai’s commitment to attracting and retaining global investors by offering genuine long-term residency benefits.

Book your free consultation call today with the experts at JSB Incorporation to learn more about investor visas.