Cher, Thank you very much for this information. I am not an expert on UAE! I would, however, like to know what comes first - (1) purchase and payment of the property in UAE or (2) the residency visa. I am interested in buying a flat in Ajman, however, before I put down a deposit I need a guarantee that I can be granted a residency visa. I do not quite understand what the relationship is between (1) real estate agents that sponsor buyers and (2) the government who makes decisions on granting a visa. In most countries of the world the granting of a visa is an independent decision made by officials of the government. If the purchase of property in Ajman authomatically implies that the buyer will be granted a residency visa, what are the procedures to follow? Is the visa granted in UAE or at an emabssy? And what are the implications (e.g.) if someone has an incurable illness? I would be interested to know where I can obtain full details about the issuance of a residency visa in view of the fact that UAE embassy did not reply despite two reminders. Many thanks for your assistance.