Dubai’s Golden Visa: What the New Residency Route Really Means For Indians

In a marked shift from previous residency norms, the United Arab Emirates has introduced a nomination-based Golden Visa scheme that allows eligible Indian nationals to secure a 10-year residency in Dubai — no multimillion-dirham real estate investments or business ventures required.

The new model, currently in its pilot phase, enables applicants to apply through a nomination system for a one-time fee of AED 100,000 (approximately Rs 23.3 lakh). This comes as a departure from the earlier requirement of investing at least AED 2 million (around Rs 4.66 crore). The policy is being piloted in India and Bangladesh, with the Rayad Group overseeing the rollout in India.

Rayad Kamal Ayub, Managing Director of the group, described the programme as a “golden” opportunity. Industry insiders say around 5,000 Indian applications are expected in the next three months alone.

Process Behind Golden Visa

Unlike the older investment-linked model, this version relies on a structured nomination and vetting process. Applicants must clear background checks — including criminal history and anti-money laundering reviews — and their digital presence may also be evaluated.

Authorities are reportedly focusing on individuals who can contribute to key sectors like technology, finance, culture, startups, and trade. The final decision rests with the UAE government, once the vetting agency forwards the approved applications.

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Changing Patterns in Indian Real Estate Interest

Experts say the revised visa policy is already shifting how Indian investors perceive Dubai’s property market. “Interest from Indians in Dubai property has long been high, but the Golden Visa has brought an entirely different level of interest to the market,” said Robin Pahuja, Co-Founder & Managing Director, ElitePro Infra.

Abhishek Raj, CEO of Jenika Ventures, added, “The Golden Visa has brought a taste of permanence and long-term vision.” He noted a transition among Indian buyers towards larger homes like villas and waterfront properties, and a broader shift in conversation — from returns to lifestyle.

Ashutosh Chaudhary, Director – Marketing & Strategy at TRG Group, observed a similar trend. “Indian investors are moving up the ladder and purchasing premium assets. The Golden Visa is not just attracting investors but families,” he said.

Developers say Indian buyers are now factoring in access to healthcare, education, and community infrastructure. While the visa programme is still in its early stages, it appears to be reshaping Dubai’s appeal from a short-term destination into a long-term base for a growing segment of Indian professionals and business owners.

As the pilot unfolds, all eyes are on how the nomination-based model performs — and whether it sets a new precedent for residency policies in the Gulf.