Azimira

Reassess your residency with confidence. A RAK property from about £400k can unlock a 10‑year UAE Golden Visa, family residency, strong lifestyle benefits and compelling investment potential.

The UK’s overhaul of the non‑domiciled tax regime has led many internationally mobile families to reassess where they live and invest. If you are considering alternatives, the UAE Golden Visa offers a straightforward, long‑term residency solution. By purchasing qualifying property in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) from around £400,000 (approximately AED 2 million), you can typically secure a 10‑year UAE Golden Visa for yourself and your family, alongside access to a dynamic, tax‑friendly economy.

Why the UAE is attracting UK wealth

Personal tax simplicity: No personal income tax, no tax on most capital gains, and no inheritance tax on personal wealth. VAT applies at 5%, and there is a federal corporate tax for businesses, but salary and investment income held personally are not subject to UAE personal income tax.
Stability and safety: The UAE is consistently ranked among the safest countries globally, with modern infrastructure, excellent connectivity and efficient administration.
Strong legal foundations: Freehold property frameworks and a transparent land registration system provide clarity and security for investors, with many features familiar to UK buyers.
Lifestyle and convenience: From world‑class hospitality and beaches to thriving business hubs, the UAE balances work and family life exceptionally well.

The UAE Golden Visa at a glance

Duration: Up to 10 years, renewable while criteria are maintained.
Family coverage: Typically extends to spouse and children; in many cases domestic staff can also be sponsored.
Flexibility: Multi‑entry, residence without the need for a local employer sponsor.
Continuity: Freedom to live, work and study in the UAE, and to own property.

UAE Golden Visa via RAK property: how it works

The property route is one of the most accessible paths to long‑term residency.

Minimum investment: From AED 2,000,000 (about £400,000), subject to valuation and emirate‑specific rules. Off‑plan properties may be eligible, but additional criteria (such as payment thresholds) often apply.
Qualifying asset: Residential property in RAK registered in your name. Some structures, such as company ownership, may require extra steps.

Application steps:

Select and purchase qualifying property in RAK.
Obtain title deed or interim ownership documents, plus a valuation if required.
Submit Golden Visa application with proof of ownership, passport, photographs and background checks.
Complete medical screening and biometrics for Emirates ID.
Receive residency issuance, then sponsor eligible family members.
Typical timeline: 3–8 weeks after property completion and documentation, depending on case complexity.
Indicative costs: Government fees, medicals and Emirates ID per adult commonly total several thousand dirhams; fees vary by emirate and are subject to change. Always check current schedules.

Education, healthcare and family life

UK families will find familiar standards and curricula. Leading institutions include the University of Birmingham Dubai, the University of Manchester Middle East Centre, Heriot‑Watt University Dubai and Middlesex University Dubai. International schools offer British curricula from primary through A‑levels, easing transitions for children.

Healthcare standards are high, with modern hospitals, international clinicians and strong private insurance options. Alongside daily conveniences, the UAE’s cultural calendar is rich: Dubai Opera’s performances, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and events such as the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and Dubai World Cup anchor a lively arts and sports scene.

The investment case for RAK real estate

RAK is emerging as a compelling market within the Northern Emirates, supported by infrastructure investment, coastal masterplans and growing tourism. Market forecasts suggest RAK residential property could deliver around 15–20% capital growth over the next two years, compared with a modest 2–5% often cited for London in the same period. While outcomes vary by project and timing, investors are also attracted to:

Competitive entry prices relative to Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Attractive rental yields in select communities
Master‑planned, waterfront and resort‑led developments
Ongoing enhancements to transport and hospitality

As ever, undertake full due diligence: developer track record, service charges, build quality, tenancy demand and exit liquidity should all be assessed.

Legal and ownership considerations

Freehold and registration: RAK offers freehold ownership for foreign buyers in designated areas, recorded with the local land department.
Financing: Local mortgages are available subject to eligibility; loan‑to‑value limits and criteria differ for residents and non‑residents.
Structures: Buying personally is common; holding through a company or trust may be possible but requires specialist advice on UAE and UK implications.
Ongoing compliance: Maintain property value and visa requirements to keep residency valid.

Key UK tax and residency planning points before you move

A successful relocation is about more than buying property. Coordinate UK and UAE advice to avoid costly mistakes.

UK Statutory Residence Test: Plan departure dates and UK ties to achieve non‑residence where intended
Split‑year treatment: You may qualify for split‑year rules in your year of departure.
Temporary non‑residence: Certain disposals within a short return window can trigger UK tax under anti‑avoidance rules.
UK‑source income: UK property income and some UK gains may remain taxable in the UK.
Remittances and clean capital: If you previously used the remittance basis, organise funds before moving.
Estate planning: Consider UK inheritance tax exposure on UK‑situs assets and any ongoing UK domicile considerations.
Business interests: Review management and control, director duties, transfer pricing and CFC rules where relevant.

Lifestyle, safety and quality of life

The UAE’s low crime rates, well‑maintained public spaces and efficient services support a high quality of life. Modern roads, airports and digital services make regional and international travel easy, while beaches, desert escapes and year‑round events provide variety for families and professionals alike.

Frequently asked questions

Can I include my family? Yes. Spouse and dependent children are typically eligible; requirements vary, so confirm ages and documentation at the time of application.

Do I have to live in the UAE full‑time? The Golden Visa provides flexibility, though minimum entry or presence rules may apply. Check prevailing conditions when you apply.

What if property values fluctuate? If the property falls below eligibility thresholds, renewal could be affected. Choose quality assets and monitor requirements.

Are taxes truly zero? The UAE levies no personal income tax, no tax on most personal capital gains and no inheritance tax. VAT applies at 5%, and businesses may be subject to corporate tax. Your UK tax position on UK‑source income may continue.

Next steps

Review your objectives and timeline in light of UK non‑dom changes.
Shortlist qualifying RAK developments and developers with strong delivery records.
Model acquisition costs, yields and exit scenarios, including currency assumptions.
Obtain coordinated UK–UAE advice on tax, immigration and structuring, then proceed with a clear plan.

Conclusion: a confident move to the UAE

For internationally mobile UK families, the UAE Golden Visa offers long‑term certainty, personal tax simplicity and excellent quality of life. Securing residency via RAK property from around £400,000 is a practical, well‑trodden route that can also open the door to attractive real‑estate returns. If you are evaluating your options, now is the time to explore the UAE Golden Visa pathway and align your relocation, investment and tax planning for the years ahead. For tailored guidance or a curated list of qualifying properties, request a confidential consultation.

Disclaimer: This article is for information only and does not constitute legal, tax or investment advice. Rules and costs change, and individual circumstances differ. Obtain professional advice in the UK and UAE before making decisions.

UAE Golden Visa: the clear path for UK non‑doms via RAK property