Dubai’s Golden Visa: How Buying at Chelsea Residences Grants You Long-Term UAE Residency

In recent years, Dubai has solidified its reputation as one of the most dynamic and investor-friendly cities in the world. Among its most powerful initiatives is the UAE Golden Visa program – a long-term residency scheme designed to attract global talent, investors, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals.

One of the most accessible and appealing paths to securing a Golden Visa is through real estate investment, and Chelsea Residences by DAMAC presents a rare opportunity to combine lifestyle, luxury, and long-term residency in one iconic address.

In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about obtaining the UAE Golden Visa through property investment – specifically, how Chelsea Residences qualifies buyers for this elite residency program and why now is the perfect time to invest.

What Is the UAE Golden Visa?

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa that allows foreign nationals to live, work, and study in the UAE without the need for a national sponsor. It was launched in 2019 to attract investors, skilled professionals, researchers, and entrepreneurs to the UAE.

Initially issued for 5 or 10 years, the visa is renewable as long as the holder continues to meet the eligibility criteria. For real estate investors, the threshold for eligibility is now more accessible than ever, especially with the updated rules introduced in 2022.

 

Golden Visa Through Real Estate: Key Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Golden Visa under the real estate investment category, the following conditions apply:

• Minimum Investment: The property must be worth at least AED 2 million (approx. USD 545,000).

• Ownership: You can purchase a completed or off-plan property from an approved developer.

• Mortgage Option: You may finance the purchase through a loan, provided the down payment equals at least AED 2 million.

• Freehold Zones: The property must be located in a freehold area where foreign nationals are permitted to own property.

Chelsea Residences Qualifies You for the Golden Visa

With 1-bedroom residences starting around AED 2.17 million, Chelsea Residences by DAMAC meets the investment threshold for Golden Visa eligibility. Buyers of any unit within the development can apply for the visa – whether the purchase is made outright or via an approved payment plan.

As an approved DAMAC development in a prime freehold zone (Dubai Maritime City), Chelsea Residences ticks every box required to fast-track your long-term residency.

 

The Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa for Property Investors

Owning a property that qualifies you for the Golden Visa provides much more than luxury living. Here are some of the key benefits:

1. 10-Year Renewable Residency

Golden Visa holders are granted a 10-year UAE residency, renewable without the need for local sponsorship. You retain the right to live in the UAE even if you spend extended time abroad.

2. Residency for Family Members

The visa includes your spouse and children, ensuring long-term family stability and access to the UAE’s healthcare and education systems. In many cases, dependents can benefit from the same visa duration as the main applicant.

3. Freedom of Movement

Unlike traditional residency visas, Golden Visa holders are not required to reside in the UAE full-time. You can travel freely without affecting your residency status.

4. Ownership and Investment Security

Visa holders enjoy complete ownership of their property, without restrictions on repatriation of profits or capital. The UAE also offers no income tax, no capital gains tax, and no property tax, further enhancing your returns.

5. Business and Employment Flexibility

Golden Visa holders can own and operate businesses, register vehicles, open bank accounts, and apply for driving licenses, offering full lifestyle functionality.

6. Prestige and Peace of Mind

A long-term visa provides a sense of security, global mobility, and recognition. Investors often view it as a strategic tool for regional and global positioning.

Why Chelsea Residences Is the Ideal Golden Visa Property

Chelsea Residences by DAMAC is not just a qualifying investment – it’s a high-performing, lifestyle-enhancing asset. Here’s why it stands out:

1. Minimum AED 2M+ Entry Price

With 1BR residences starting at approximately AED 2.17M, the development meets the visa threshold without excess capital lockup. This gives you the visa and a luxury asset in one.

2. Waterfront Freehold Location

Located in Dubai Maritime City, Chelsea Residences is in a freehold area accessible to foreign investors. The area offers beach access, skyline views, and proximity to Downtown Dubai.

3. Flexible Payment Plans

DAMAC offers buyer-friendly installment options, allowing investors to structure payments conveniently while retaining visa eligibility. Even off-plan purchases qualify, provided the down payment value reaches AED 2M.

4. Branded Real Estate with Premium Appeal

As the world’s first Chelsea FC-branded residence, the project carries global branding power, lifestyle uniqueness, and resale appeal – enhancing long-term value.

5. Resort-Style Amenities

The development offers rooftop football pitches, luxury spas, gourmet dining, and wellness centers. This elevates the living experience and appeals to high-net-worth renters or future buyers.

6. Strong Rental Potential

Golden Visa properties in Dubai tend to perform well on the rental market. Chelsea Residences' waterfront views, prime location, and branded status will likely command premium rental yields, enabling visa holders to earn steady passive income.

How to Apply for the Golden Visa Through Chelsea Residences

Step 1: Choose Your Unit

Browse available 1BR, 2BR, or 3BR units at Chelsea Residences. Ensure the value of your chosen property is at least AED 2 million (can be inclusive of VAT and fees if permitted).

Step 2: Sign the Sales Agreement

Enter into a Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA) with DAMAC. This document will detail your investment and property specifics.

Step 3: Make the Required Payment

Depending on the unit, you may be eligible through either full payment or via installment plan (as long as your payment value hits the AED 2M mark).

Step 4: Obtain Property Documentation

You'll receive a Title Deed (for completed property) or Oqood (for off-plan property), which acts as proof of ownership for visa purposes.

Step 5: Submit Your Visa Application

Apply through the Dubai Land Department (DLD) or General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). DAMAC or their legal partners often assist in document processing.

Required documents include:

• Copy of passport

• Title deed or Oqood

• Health insurance policy

• Passport-sized photos

• Good conduct certificate (if requested)

• Bank statements or proof of funds (if applicable)

Step 6: Visa Issuance and Residency

Once approved, you'll receive a 10-year Golden Visa. You can now sponsor your family and enjoy full rights as a long-term UAE resident.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I get the Golden Visa with a mortgage?

Yes, if your equity in the property equals or exceeds AED 2 million, you can qualify even if the rest is financed. The bank must be one of the approved lenders.

Do off-plan properties qualify?

Yes. If you invest in an off-plan unit worth AED 2 million or more, and the amount paid meets the threshold, you're eligible. You will receive an Oqood certificate during construction.

How long does the application take?

The process typically takes 4 to 8 weeks, depending on your documentation and clearance.

Can I rent out the property and still retain my visa?

Yes. There is no restriction on renting your Golden Visa-qualified property. In fact, rental income is often a key benefit for investor-residents.

Is the visa renewable?

Yes, as long as you maintain ownership of the qualifying property, the 10-year visa is renewable indefinitely.

 

Final Thoughts: A Smart Path to Residency and Wealth

Dubai’s Golden Visa is more than a permit – it’s a powerful gateway to stability, prosperity, and a world-class lifestyle. When combined with a high-performing asset like Chelsea Residences by DAMAC, the value becomes exponential.

This development merges branding, luxury, and location, giving investors a unique chance to own a trophy asset while securing long-term UAE residency for themselves and their families.

Ready to Begin Your Journey?

✅ Download the Chelsea Residences Brochure
✅ Speak with a Specialist About Golden Visa-Eligible Units
✅ Secure Your Place in Dubai’s Most Iconic New Address

👉 chelseafcresidencesdamac.com