Which family members can a foreign property owner sponsor in Abu Dhabi?

Foreign property owners in Abu Dhabi can sponsor their spouse, parents, and children, subject to specific age conditions for children.

What is the age limit for sponsoring children on an Abu Dhabi real estate owner visa?

The age limit for sponsoring children is up to 25 years old. However, unmarried daughters have no upper age limit.

Are there any exceptions to the age limits for child sponsorship?

Yes, children of determination (those with disabilities or special needs) can be sponsored regardless of their age, with no upper limit.

Does this update affect the Abu Dhabi Golden Visa rules for family sponsorship?

This update specifically pertains to the real estate owner visa. The Golden Visa has different sponsorship rules, allowing holders to sponsor children of any age and an unlimited number of domestic staff.

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Residency·16 October 2026

Abu Dhabi Government Clarifies Family Sponsorship Rules for Property Owner Visa

Abu Dhabi has specified which family members foreign real estate owners can sponsor under their residency visa, including age conditions and special provisions for children of determination.

The Abu Dhabi government has released updated guidelines clarifying which family members foreign property owners can sponsor under their real estate owner visa. The official announcement details three categories of relatives eligible for sponsorship, each with specific age conditions.

Eligible Family Members

Foreign nationals holding an Abu Dhabi real estate owner visa can now sponsor the following family members:

Spouse: No specific age restrictions were mentioned for spouses.
Parents: No specific age restrictions were mentioned for parents.
Children: Children up to 25 years old are eligible for sponsorship. An exception is made for unmarried daughters, who face no upper age limit under this scheme.

Special Considerations for Children of Determination

A significant provision within the new guidelines relates to children of determination, the UAE's term for individuals with disabilities or special needs. These children qualify for a residence permit under the real estate owner visa with no age restriction, distinguishing them from other children in the sponsorship criteria.

These updated rules aim to provide clarity and facilitate the residency process for foreign investors in Abu Dhabi's real estate market.

Frequently asked

Questions, answered

Which family members can a foreign property owner sponsor in Abu Dhabi?: Foreign property owners in Abu Dhabi can sponsor their spouse, parents, and children, subject to specific age conditions for children.
What is the age limit for sponsoring children on an Abu Dhabi real estate owner visa?: The age limit for sponsoring children is up to 25 years old. However, unmarried daughters have no upper age limit.
Are there any exceptions to the age limits for child sponsorship?: Yes, children of determination (those with disabilities or special needs) can be sponsored regardless of their age, with no upper limit.
Does this update affect the Abu Dhabi Golden Visa rules for family sponsorship?: This update specifically pertains to the real estate owner visa. The Golden Visa has different sponsorship rules, allowing holders to sponsor children of any age and an unlimited number of domestic staff.

Reported by

Google News — Abu Dhabi Real Estate (7d)

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This brief was summarised and rewritten by Gaia Living from public reporting. Figures and details reflect the original sources.

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