Turkey Citizenship by Investment is a program that allows UAE residents to obtain Turkish citizenship by making a qualifying financial investment in Turkey. Whether through real estate, capital investment, or bank deposits, UAE residents can benefit from Turkey’s strategic location and booming tourism sector.
Turkey Citizenship by Investment from UAE is growing in popularity, particularly for those looking for visa-free travel, real estate opportunities, and business expansion into Europe and Asia. With a streamlined process and attractive investment options, Turkey has become a top choice for UAE residents seeking global mobility.
Turkey Citizenship by Investment from UAE: Key Takeaways
- UAE residents can obtain Turkey CBI in 6-12 months through real estate, bank deposits, or capital investment.
- The minimum investment is $400,000 in real estate, making it one of the region’s most affordable CBI options.
- The Turkish passport offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 120 countries, boosting global mobility for UAE residents.
- Turkey Citizenship by Investment from UAE has no residency requirement before or after approval.
- Turkey offers a strong property market with high rental yields and appreciation in cities like Istanbul, Antalya, and Bodrum.
- Turkey Citizenship by Investment from UAE supports full family inclusion, allowing spouses and dependent children to obtain citizenship.
- The UAE–Turkey double taxation agreement helps protect income and simplify tax obligations across both countries.
What is Turkish Citizenship by Investment? (2026 Update for UAE Residents)
The Turkish Citizenship by Investment program allows foreign nationals, including those from the UAE, to obtain Turkish citizenship by making an approved investment.
Launched in 2017 to attract foreign investment, this program gives UAE residents a quick and simple way to become Turkish citizens. The main options include:
- Real estate purchase: minimum $400,000
- Bank deposit: $500,000
- Government bonds: $500,000
- Investment funds: $500,000
- Capital investment: $500,000
- Job creation: 50 full-time positions
Most applications are processed in 6 to 12 months. You do not have to live in Turkey before or after you get citizenship.
7 Benefits of Obtaining Turkish Citizenship for UAE Residents
The Turkey citizenship program offers significant advantages for UAE nationals and expatriates, including:
- With a Turkish passport, UAE residents can travel to over 120 countries without a visa or get a visa on arrival, making business trips and holidays much easier.
- Turkish citizenship opens the door to the Turkey E-2 Visa, which lets you, your spouse, and children under 21 live and run a business in the United States.
- Turkey’s unique location between Europe and Asia offers excellent opportunities for UAE-based investors to expand businesses and explore new markets.
- Your spouse and children under 18 automatically gain citizenship, too, and it can be passed on to future generations.
- Turkey permits dual citizenship, allowing individuals to retain their original nationality if their home country also allows it. UAE residents can safely obtain Turkish citizenship while maintaining their UAE residency. UAE nationals are advised to check with authorities before acquiring a second nationality.
- There’s no need to live in Turkey or take any language or history tests. You can complete the process while staying in the UAE.
- Turkish citizenship also makes it easier to work and benefit from investment incentives and double taxation agreements.
Investment Options for Turkey Citizenship by Investment from the UAE
There are a range of options for UAE residents looking to acquire Turkish citizenship through foreign direct investment, including:
| Pathway | Price in US Dollars | Price in AED |
|---|---|---|
| Real estate | $400,000 | AED 1,468,000 |
| Bank deposit | $500,000 | AED 1,835,000 |
| Government bonds | 500,000 | AED 1,835,000 |
| Investment funds share | $500,000 | AED 1,835,000 |
| Capital investment | $500,000 | AED 1,835,000 |
| Job creation | Create 50 full-time jobs | |
Turkish real estate is the most popular option for UAE investors, as Turkey offers lucrative investment opportunities in major cities like Istanbul, Antalya, and Bodrum. Many investors purchase properties for rental income or as holiday homes, benefiting from Turkey’s growing tourism industry. In 2024, there were over 52 million foreign visitors to Turkey.
Important to note: Turkey Citizenship by Investment changes saw the minimum investment for the real estate option increase from $250,000-$400,000.
Top Places to Buy Property in Turkey for UAE Residents (2026)
Investing in Turkey real estate is one of the top options for those from the UAE, here are some of the best places to buy property in Turkey:
- Istanbul: The capital of Turkey, Istanbul, is ideal for those looking to invest in Turkey for capital appreciation and high rental yields. As the cultural and economic hub of the country, Istanbul is perfect for a holiday home or investment property. Popular neighborhoods include Besiktas for upscale living and Beylikduzu for more affordable options with good rental returns.
- Antalya: UAE investors on the lookout for a good property for tourism in Turkey, Antalya is well known for its beaches and growing expat communities. It is ideal for short-term rentals and holiday homes. Areas like Alanya, Kemer, Kaş, and Lara Beach are especially popular.
- Bodrum: Coastal living, with boutique hotels and luxury villas, awaits in Bodrum. A stunning coastal town invites investors to explore its gorgeous sea views and exclusive living opportunities.
- Izmir: For long-term growth and strong investment potential, Izmir is the third-largest city in Turkey. The property prices are lower, which may potentially hold significant investment potential for UAE residents looking at Turkish Citizenship by Investment.
- Fethiye: Affordable real estate in Turkey with beachside views can be found in Fethiye. This area has high holiday rental demand, with holiday and rental homes increasing in value.
- Bursa: Famous for its green scenery and strong industry, Bursa offers a quieter lifestyle and solid rental yields.
Comparison Table: Number of Visitors Vs Property Cost in Turkey
| City | Number of visitors per year | Price per Square Meter to Buy Apartment in City Centre (TL) | Price in Dirham |
|---|---|---|---|
| Istanbul | 18.5 million | 135,574 | 11,435 |
| Antalya | 17.2 million | 110,833 | 9,348 |
| Bodrum | 430,000 | 352,811 | 29,758 |
| Izmir | 1.5 million | 68,212 | 5,753 |
| Fethiye | 2 million | 85,304 | 7,195 |
| Bursa | 1.5 million | 68,542.00 | 5,781 |
Document Requirements for UAE Citizens to Obtain Turkey CBI
UAE citizens need to submit the following documents for the Turkey Citizenship by Investment program:
- Valid passport
- Birth certificate
- Biometric passport photos
- Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill)
- Turkish Tax Identification Number
- Clean criminal record certificate
- Valid health insurance in Turkey
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Divorce decree or spouse’s death certificate (if applicable)
For real estate investments, additional documents include:
- Land Registry Certificate
- Private purchase contract from the developer
- Valuation report approved by the Capital Market Board
Working with a Turkey citizenship lawyer is highly recommended to ensure all documents are up to date and meet the requirements.
Steps for UAE Citizens to Get Turkey Citizenship
- Choose a qualifying investment: Select an approved option such as real estate (minimum $400,000), a $500,000 bank deposit, or other eligible investments.
- Conduct initial due diligence: Ensure all funds are from legal sources and meet Turkey’s eligibility criteria.
- Open a Turkish bank account (if required): Necessary for certain investments like bank deposits or capital investments.
- Make the investment: Complete the transaction and secure official documentation.
- Obtain certificate of conformity: Issued by the relevant Turkish authority confirming investment compliance.
- Compile and submit documents: Include proof of investment, passport copies, biometric photos, and other required paperwork.
- Apply for a residence permit: File with the Directorate General of Migration Management.
- Submit citizenship application: Apply through the Provincial Directorate of Census and Citizenship.
- Receive citizenship approval: Turkey citizenship is granted within 6-12 months, subject to verification.
- Maintain the investment for 3 years: Required to retain citizenship benefits under Law No. 5901.
Processing Time for UAE Residents to Get Turkish Citizenship by Investment
The processing time for Turkey citizenship by investment from UAE is approximately 6-12 months, provided all documentation is complete, and the investment complies with program requirements. After the investment is made, applicants must first obtain a Certificate of Conformity from the relevant Turkish authority (based on the type of investment), followed by a residence permit application. Once these steps are completed, the citizenship application is submitted and reviewed.
This timeline makes the Turkey Citizenship by Investment Program one of the fastest and most efficient options for UAE nationals, especially compared to similar programs in Europe.
Tax Implications for UAE Residents with Turkish Citizenship in 2026
Turkey and the UAE have a double taxation agreement in place, meaning you are only taxed once on the same income. However, those from the UAE are only considered Turkish tax residents if they spend more than 183 days per year in the country. Still, consulting a tax expert is recommended before applying to ensure you know what taxes apply to you.
| Tax Type | Applies To | UAE Residents | UAE Residents >183 Days in Turkey |
|---|---|---|---|
| Income Tax | Income earned in Turkey | Yes (on Turkish-sourced income only) | Yes (on worldwide income) |
| Capital Gains Tax | Profit from sale of real estate or investments | Yes (on Turkish real estate/investments only) | Yes (on worldwide capital gains) |
| Rental Income Tax | Income from rental properties in Turkey | Yes (on Turkish rental income) | Yes (on worldwide rental income) |
| Value Added Tax (VAT) | Goods and services purchased in Turkey | Yes (if applicable, on purchases in Turkey) | Yes |
| Property Tax | Annual tax on owned real estate | Yes (on Turkish property) | Yes (on Turkish property) |
| Inheritance & Gift Tax | Property or wealth transferred via inheritance/gift | Yes (on assets in Turkey) | Yes (on worldwide assets) |
| Corporate Tax | Profits from Turkish companies | Yes (if company is registered in Turkey) | Yes (if company is registered in Turkey) |
Where to Apply for Turkish Citizenship in the UAE
Those in the UAE can obtain a residency permit and enquire about Turkey citizenship at the Turkish consulate in Dubai. However, to apply for citizenship, UAE residents need to apply with the General Directorate of Population and Citizenship Affairs in Turkey. This means you will need to travel to Turkey for the application process. As of January 2026, main applicants and their spouses are required to travel to Turkey to apply for the CBI program. Working with an immigration specialist can help ensure that the entire application process runs smoothly.
How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?
Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments.
We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application.
