In a transformative move that has captured the attention of professionals and investors worldwide, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has unveiled a groundbreaking nomination-based Golden Visa program, offering lifetime residency for a one-time fee of AED 100,000 (approximately ₹23.3 lakh). Launched on a pilot basis for Indian and Bangladeshi nationals, this initiative marks a significant departure from the UAE’s traditional investment-heavy residency model, making long-term residency in Dubai and other emirates more accessible than ever before. With its promise of tax-free living, world-class infrastructure, and unparalleled economic opportunities, the program is poised to reshape global migration trends, particularly for Indian professionals and entrepreneurs.
A New Era for UAE Residency
The UAE’s Golden Visa, introduced in 2019, was initially designed to attract high-net-worth individuals, investors, and exceptional talent by offering long-term residency of five or ten years. Until recently, eligibility typically required substantial financial commitments, such as a minimum investment of AED 2 million (approximately ₹4.66 crore) in real estate or business ventures. This high entry barrier limited access to affluent investors, leaving many skilled professionals and mid-level entrepreneurs out of reach.
The new nomination-based model, rolled out in July 2025, eliminates these financial prerequisites, replacing them with a merit-based evaluation process and a significantly lower fee. For ₹23.3 lakh, eligible applicants can now secure lifetime residency without the need to purchase property, establish a company, or meet other capital-intensive requirements. This shift aligns with the UAE’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy, attract global talent, and position the nation as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Who Can Apply?
The nomination-based Golden Visa targets a diverse range of individuals who can contribute to the UAE’s economic and cultural landscape. Eligible candidates include:
- Professionals and Specialists: Doctors, engineers, educators, scientists, and digital creators with a proven track record in their fields.
- Entrepreneurs and Business Owners: Individuals with innovative ideas or established ventures that can drive economic growth.
- Creatives and Influencers: Artists, writers, and content creators who can enhance the UAE’s cultural vibrancy.
- Humanitarian Pioneers and Frontline Heroes: Those recognized for societal contributions or service during crises.
- Outstanding Students and Graduates: High-achieving scholars with the potential to excel in key sectors.
Unlike the previous model, which prioritized financial investment, the new system evaluates applicants based on their professional background, societal impact, and potential to contribute to sectors such as finance, trade, science, startups, and culture. However, not everyone with ₹23.3 lakh qualifies. The application process involves rigorous vetting, including criminal background checks, financial audits, and even social media scrutiny to ensure candidates align with the UAE’s values and economic goals.
The Application Process: Streamlined Yet Stringent
The UAE has partnered with authorized entities, such as Rayad Group, VFS Global, and One Vasco, to manage the nomination-based Golden Visa process in India. Applicants can initiate the process without traveling to the UAE, making it convenient for professionals based in India. The steps include:
- Nomination: Candidates must be nominated by authorized agents who assess their eligibility based on UAE government criteria.
- Background Verification: A comprehensive review of the applicant’s criminal record, financial standing, and online presence is conducted to ensure compliance with UAE regulations.
- Fee Payment: Upon pre-approval, applicants pay the one-time fee of AED 100,000 (₹23.3 lakh).
- Final Approval: The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) or Dubai’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFAD) makes the final decision.
The process, while streamlined, is far from automatic. Authorities emphasize that the Golden Visa is merit-based, designed to attract individuals who can add tangible value to the UAE’s economy and society. Rayad Kamal Ayub, Managing Director of Rayad Group, described the program as “a golden opportunity for Indians to secure a future in one of the world’s most dynamic economies,” but cautioned that approvals depend on more than just financial capability.
Benefits of the Golden Visa
The UAE’s Golden Visa offers a host of advantages that make it an attractive option for Indian professionals and families:
- Lifetime Residency: Unlike the previous 5- or 10-year renewable visas, the new model grants permanent residency, providing long-term stability.
- Tax-Free Living: The UAE imposes no personal income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax, allowing residents to maximize their earnings.
- Freedom to Work and Invest: Visa holders can work, start businesses, or invest in any sector without needing a local sponsor.
- Family Sponsorship: Residents can sponsor their immediate family members and domestic staff, ensuring a seamless relocation experience.
- Global Mobility: Dubai’s strategic location and world-class infrastructure make it a gateway to international markets, enhancing career and business opportunities.
- High Quality of Life: With state-of-the-art healthcare, education, and safety standards, the UAE offers a lifestyle that rivals global metropolises.
For Indian applicants, the absence of a property investment requirement is particularly significant. Previously, securing a Golden Visa often meant purchasing real estate worth crores, a barrier for many middle-class professionals. The new fee structure democratizes access, enabling a broader segment of India’s talent pool to consider relocating to the UAE.
Impact on India and the UAE
The nomination-based Golden Visa has sparked widespread discussion in India, with social media platforms buzzing with excitement, skepticism, and memes. Posts on X highlight the program’s appeal, with users praising the UAE’s zero-income-tax policy, strict law enforcement, and ease of doing business. One viral post quipped, “Patriotism leaving my body as soon as I read Dubai is offering Golden Visa for ₹23L,” while another noted, “In ₹23 lakhs you can get lifetime Golden Visa of DUBAI, and still have 77 lakhs left to buy a sports car.” These reactions underscore the program’s allure for India’s aspirational middle and upper-middle classes.
However, the initiative has also raised concerns about a potential brain drain from India. With over 5,000 Indian applicants expected in the first three months, critics argue that the UAE’s attractive policies could accelerate the migration of high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) and skilled professionals. A post on X lamented, “India is surely going to lose its most productive population in coming days!” Others countered that the program is best suited for those with remote jobs, online businesses, or UAE-based employment, as Indian residents remain subject to India’s tax laws unless they qualify as non-residents (spending 182+ days abroad).
For the UAE, the program is a strategic move to bolster its expatriate population, which constitutes a significant portion of its workforce. India and Bangladesh, selected for the pilot phase, are key partners under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed in 2022. By lowering the entry cost, the UAE aims to attract younger professionals and mid-level investors, diversifying its talent pool beyond traditional high-net-worth investors. Real estate experts predict a boost in Dubai’s mid-tier property market, as new residents may opt to rent or purchase affordable homes, though India’s ultra-luxury housing demand is expected to remain unaffected.
Challenges and Considerations
Despite its appeal, the Golden Visa program is not without challenges. The stringent vetting process has drawn scrutiny, with reports emphasizing that “not every Indian with ₹23 lakh qualifies.” Applicants must demonstrate economic or social value, a subjective criterion that could lead to rejections. Additionally, the program does not offer a path to citizenship, meaning visa holders remain foreigners without the full rights of UAE nationals. For some, this limitation, coupled with India’s tax obligations for residents, may diminish the program’s attractiveness.
The pilot nature of the initiative also introduces uncertainty. While the UAE has committed to expanding the program to other CEPA partner countries like China in future phases, changes to eligibility criteria or fees could occur. Applicants are advised to act swiftly, as the current ₹23.3 lakh fee may not remain fixed indefinitely.
A Game-Changer for Global Mobility
The UAE’s nomination-based Golden Visa represents a paradigm shift in global residency programs, offering an affordable and merit-based pathway to one of the world’s most desirable destinations. For Indian professionals, entrepreneurs, and creatives, the opportunity to secure lifetime residency in Dubai for ₹23.3 lakh is a compelling proposition, promising tax advantages, career growth, and an enviable lifestyle. Yet, the program’s success hinges on its ability to balance inclusivity with quality, ensuring that only those who can contribute meaningfully to the UAE’s vision gain approval.
As the pilot phase unfolds, the Golden Visa is likely to remain a focal point of debate, aspiration, and opportunity. For those who qualify, it offers a chance to redefine their future in a city where dreams meet reality. For others, it serves as a reminder of the UAE’s relentless pursuit of global talent, setting a new benchmark for residency programs worldwide.
To apply or learn more, contact authorized agents like Rayad Group or visit the UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) website.
Last Updated on: Tuesday, July 8, 2025 1:35 pm by Aagya Agarwal | Published by: Aagya Agarwal on Tuesday, July 8, 2025 1:35 pm | News Categories: Business Saga News
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