UAE’s Golden Visa Overhaul: Game-Changer for Indian Investors and Professionals

 

The United Arab Emirates has announced a landmark shift in its Golden Visa policy, fundamentally altering the landscape for Indian investors and skilled professionals seeking long-term residency. The new nomination-based system, introduced in July 2025, removes the traditional barriers of property or business investment, making the coveted visa more accessible than ever.

 

Key Highlights

 

•⁠  ⁠Indians can now secure the UAE’s Golden Visa—offering lifetime residency—by paying a one-time fee of AED 100,000 (approximately ₹23.3 lakh), without the need to invest in real estate, hold a trade license, or establish a business. Applicants are subject to background and security checks, including anti-money laundering and social media vetting.

 

•⁠  ⁠The eligibility pool has expanded dramatically. In addition to entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals, the new rules now include healthcare workers, teachers, digital content creators, e-sports professionals, luxury yacht owners, scientists, and those skilled in AI, sustainability, and creative arts. This inclusivity marks a shift from capital-based to talent-driven residency.

 

•⁠  ⁠The UAE expects over 5,000 Indian applications within the first three months of the pilot, reflecting the country’s focus on attracting global talent and strengthening economic and cultural ties with India.

 

•⁠  ⁠For Indian real estate investors, the change reduces the urgency to buy property solely for residency, likely cooling speculative demand in mid-market segments. However, luxury properties and investments driven by rental yields or lifestyle will remain attractive to high-net-worth individuals.

 

•⁠  ⁠The program aligns with the UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), aiming to foster smoother migration and business ties.

 

•⁠  ⁠This policy evolution is expected to make the UAE even more attractive for Indian professionals and families, while bringing greater stability and long-term value to the real estate market.

 

Sources: News18, Moneycontrol, Indian Express, Economic Times, Business Standard, Times of India, NDTV