Dubai Golden Visa for Indians: New UAE Policy Reveals Cost, Benefits & How to Apply

Dubai Golden Visa for Indians: New Nomination-Based Route Unveiled

Dubai Golden Visa for Indians has taken a new turn with the UAE introducing a nomination-based residency option, making it more accessible to a wider group of Indian professionals and entrepreneurs. This initiative aims to strengthen India-UAE ties while expanding opportunities for skilled individuals from the subcontinent.

A Shift from Investment to Nomination

Previously, obtaining a Dubai Golden Visa for Indians required substantial investment, such as purchasing property worth at least AED 2 million (around ₹4.66 crore) or investing in a UAE-based business. However, under the newly introduced nomination-based policy, eligible Indian nationals can secure the prestigious visa by paying a one-time fee of AED 1,00,000 — approximately ₹23.3 lakh — without the need for any heavy capital investment.

Pilot Program Launched for Indian Citizens

The UAE has initiated a pilot program in partnership with India and Bangladesh to test this nomination-based approach. As part of this program, Rayad Group, a consultancy firm, has been appointed to handle initial nominations from Indian applicants.

Rayad Kamal Ayub, Managing Director of Rayad Group, called it a “golden opportunity” for Indian citizens. The firm will facilitate the application process, verify eligibility, and forward the nominations to UAE authorities for approval. Over 5,000 Indian applicants are expected to apply within the first three months of the program.

Who Can Apply?

The scope of the Dubai Golden Visa for Indians has now been extended beyond traditional investors. The new nomination system is open to:

• Entrepreneurs
• Educators, including school teachers and university faculty
• Nurses with over 15 years of experience
• Scientists and researchers
• Executives across sectors
• Content creators like YouTubers and podcasters
• Accredited e-sports players
• Luxury yacht owners
• Professionals from finance, culture, trade, and startups

This broader eligibility criterion reflects the UAE’s intent to attract talent that contributes to the country’s economic and social fabric, even if they do not have large investment portfolios.

Dubai Golden Visa for Indians: Application Process

Applicants interested in the Dubai Golden Visa for Indians through this new route must undergo a thorough background check. This includes verification for anti-money laundering activities, criminal records, and an analysis of their social media presence. These checks are designed to assess how the applicant can potentially benefit UAE’s economy and society.

After verification, Rayad Group will submit the application to UAE authorities, who will make the final decision on the visa issuance.

Submission Channels:

Applications can be submitted through:

• One Vasco Centres in India and Bangladesh
• Rayad Group’s registered offices
• Their online portal
• A dedicated visa support call center

Applicants also have the option to seek pre-approval from India itself without needing to visit Dubai initially.

Key Benefits of the Nomination-Based Golden Visa

One of the standout features of this new Dubai Golden Visa for Indians is its permanence. Unlike the traditional property-based Golden Visa, which becomes void if the property is sold or divided, the nomination-based visa remains valid indefinitely.

Additional perks include:

• Ability to bring family members to Dubai
• Option to hire domestic help and drivers
• Freedom to engage in any business or professional activity
• Long-term residency with fewer restrictions
• No renewal hassles, unlike standard work permits

This permanent residency opportunity offers Indian professionals greater stability and long-term planning options, making it especially appealing to families and entrepreneurs.

India Chosen for Strategic Rollout

India and Bangladesh have been selected for the first phase of this initiative under the UAE’s Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The move symbolizes the deepening strategic, cultural, and economic ties between India and the UAE.

The successful execution of the pilot is expected to open the doors for other CEPA countries such as China, thus expanding the reach of the UAE’s talent-centric immigration framework.

What Was the Golden Visa Program Before?

The UAE introduced the Golden Visa program in 2019, targeting high-net-worth individuals, investors, and professionals. In 2022, the minimum property investment threshold was lowered to AED 2 million, which broadened the scope of eligible applicants.

However, the core concept still required significant financial investment. The new nomination-based Dubai Golden Visa for Indians marks a fundamental shift — focusing on merit, skills, and potential contribution rather than wealth alone.

Why This Matters for Indians

India is home to one of the largest expatriate communities in the UAE. By making the Golden Visa more accessible to skilled professionals, the UAE is not only strengthening bilateral ties but also acknowledging the valuable role Indians play in its development.

For Indian citizens, this change means:

• Greater opportunities to live and work in Dubai long-term
• Avoiding large investment requirements
• A smoother, merit-based selection process
• Improved quality of life in a global city

Conclusion: A Golden Era for Indian Talent in the UAE

The Dubai Golden Visa for Indians under the new nomination-based system is a landmark reform in the UAE’s immigration policy. By shifting from investment-driven residency to talent-driven inclusion, the UAE is opening up possibilities for thousands of Indian professionals, creators, and entrepreneurs.

As India takes the lead in the pilot phase, this program could reshape the future of Indo-UAE relations while giving Indian citizens a powerful incentive to become part of Dubai’s thriving economy and vibrant society.

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