According to Akash Puri, Director International, India Sotheby’s International Realty, this change brings a two-pronged impact for Indian real estate investors.
The recent update to the UAE’s Golden Visa program marks a major change in how long-term residency is granted, according to industry experts.
This new approach is more inclusive and aligns closely with the UAE’s long-term development goals. Under the nomination-based Golden Visa scheme, foreign nationals—including Indians—can now secure lifetime residency by paying a one-time fee of AED 100,000 (around ₹23.3 lakh), without needing to invest in property or start a business.
Akash Puri, Director of International at India Sotheby’s International Realty, says this change will have a dual impact on Indian real estate investors.
In the past, buying property was one of the few reliable ways to gain long-term residency, leading many Indian investors to enter the market to protect their capital while also securing immigration benefits.
“Now that the Golden Visa is accessible through wider routes, the pressure to buy property purely for residency is likely to ease,” Puri said. “This is especially true for mid-market and entry-level buyers. As a result, speculative buying may decline, and more thoughtful, strategic investments may take its place.”
For investors still interested in the UAE real estate market—whether it’s for rental income, a better lifestyle, or portfolio diversification—Puri expects a stronger focus on fundamentals like location, developer reputation, and long-term returns.
Luxury and high-end properties will continue to attract ultra-high-net-worth individuals, who are usually unaffected by changes in visa eligibility rules.
“For Indian investors, this shift is a signal to move from buying just for visas to making value-driven investments,” Puri added. “Over time, this approach could help create a more stable and resilient real estate market, rewarding long-term vision over short-term speculation.”
This new initiative is designed to make it easier for foreigners to settle in the UAE. Previously, a 10-year renewable residency visa required a minimum real estate investment of AED 2 million (around ₹4.7 crore).
While the UAE government has not yet released an official notification about this new version of the Golden Visa, reports suggest that India and Bangladesh are part of the first phase, with over 5,000 applicants expected within the first three months.
The UAE has just rolled out a major update to its Golden Visa system, and it’s turning heads—especially among Indian professionals and investors. The new nomination-based model not only simplifies the application process but also removes the hefty real estate or business investment requirements. This change is a game-changer, opening up a world of opportunity for Indians looking to build a long-term future in the UAE. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this exciting new path to permanent residency.
What Is the UAE Golden Visa for Indian Investors?
The UAE Golden Visa is a special long-term residency permit that allows foreigners to live, work, or study in the UAE without needing a local sponsor. It’s ideal for professionals, investors, creatives, and students looking to make the UAE their long-term base. (See more from ND TV)
Key Benefits of UAE Golden Visa:
- Multiple-entry visa to begin your residency process
- Long-term residency valid for 5 or 10 years, renewable
- No local sponsor required
- Stay outside UAE for over six months without losing residency
- Sponsor your family—including spouse, children (no age limit), and parents
- Unlimited domestic worker sponsorship
- Even after the visa holder passes away, the family can remain in the UAE.
What’s New for Indian Citizens?
Indian nationals were required to invest AED 2 million (approximately ₹4.66 crore) in real estate or launch a sizable business to qualify for a Golden Visa. But now, with the nomination-based system, those barriers have been lifted.
You can now qualify without investment, based on:
- A monthly salary of AED 30,000 or more (excluding allowances)
- Professional achievements or societal contributions
- Fields such as science, education, healthcare, arts, esports, and digital innovation
- Endorsements or nominations from approved UAE organizations
This shift is especially important for skilled professionals, creatives, and entrepreneurs who may not have capital but do have talent, experience, and ambition.
Nomination-Based Golden Visa
Key Features:
- No real estate or business investment required
- Eligibility based on profession, contributions, and value to UAE sectors like trade, science, finance, innovation, and culture
- One-time fee of AED 100,000 (approx. ₹23 lakh)
- Lifetime residency—a first for Indian applicants
- Full rights to bring family, employ domestic staff, and operate businesses
- Comprehensive vetting including background checks for criminal history, money laundering, and social media activity
How to Apply for the UAE Golden Visa in India
The application process is currently being handled by the Rayad Group, in collaboration with VFS Global and One Vasco.
Apply in the following manner:
- Visit VFS or One Vasco centers in India or Bangladesh
- Apply via Rayad Group’s online portal
- Get help through their call center support
According to Rayad Kamal Ayub, Managing Director of Rayad Group, “This is a golden opportunity for Indians.” While applicants go through strict checks, final approval is made by UAE authorities.
Real Estate and Investment Routes (Still Available)
Though the nomination path is now open, traditional Golden Visa routes are still available for those who prefer to invest.
Investors
- Invest AED 2 million in an approved UAE investment fund
- Pay at least AED 250,000 in annual taxes
- Eligible for a 10-year visa
- Must fully own the capital and provide valid medical insurance
Real Estate Investors
- Minimum AED 2 million property purchase
- Loans allowed only through UAE-approved banks
- Grants a visa for five years Other Categories That Qualify
Other Golden Visa Categories for Indian Applicants
Entrepreneurs
- Own a tech or innovation-based business worth at least AED 500,000
- qualified for a five-year visa Must provide letters from:
- A certified auditor (confirming business value)
- Relevant local authority
- A recognized business incubator
Specialized Talents (10-Year Visa)
Includes:
Doctors, scientists, artists, engineers, athletes, and senior executives
- Must provide
- Degrees, certifications, or professional licenses
- Proof of high salary or industry experience
Outstanding Students
- High school students with 95%+ marks: 5-year visa
- University students from top-rated institutions with high GPAs: 10-year visa
Humanitarian Workers
- At least five years of service or awards in humanitarian work
- Or donated AED 2 million towards humanitarian aid
Frontline Heroes
- Includes nurses, lab technicians, and medical staff
- Must have served during crises like COVID-19
- Require a recommendation from a competent authority
Expert Insight: A Shift in Mindset for Indian Investors
Akash Puri, Director of International at India Sotheby’s International Realty, believes this is a two-fold game changer for Indian real estate investors.
In the past, property investment was one of the few ways to get residency, so people bought speculatively just to get benefits from immigration. Now, with broader visa eligibility, the pressure to invest solely for residency is gone.
“Mid-market and entry-level buyers will feel less urgency,” says Puri. “This will encourage more thoughtful investment strategies, based on fundamentals like location, yield, and long-term value.”
While high-end real estate will still attract ultra-HNWIs, this move allows average investors to recalibrate from residency-driven to value-driven decision-making.
Why This Matters for Indian Professionals and Investors
- Broader access to long-term UAE residency
- New career and business opportunities across tech, science, education, and media
- Reduced financial burden—no more property buying just for a visa
- Potential for stable, high-return real estate investments
- Stronger India-UAE ties, aligned with CEPA and strategic collaborations
Final Thoughts
The UAE’s updated Golden Visa program represents a major policy shift and a welcoming hand to Indian professionals, creatives, and investors. Whether you’re a doctor, entrepreneur, esports player, or digital creator, this is your chance to build a long-term future in one of the world’s most dynamic and cosmopolitan countries—without the barriers that once held you back.
FAQs
1. Can I apply for the new Golden Visa without investing in property or business?
Yes, under the nomination-based model, investment is not required. Eligibility is based on salary, professional achievements, or societal contributions.
2. Is the AED 100,000 fee refundable?
No, it’s a one-time non-refundable fee paid upon successful nomination.
3. Can I bring my family under this visa?
Yes, you can sponsor your spouse, children (of any age), and even your parents.
4. Who handles the nomination process in India?
Rayad Group, in partnership with VFS Global and One Vasco, is managing applications in India and Bangladesh.
5. Can my family stay in the UAE if I pass away?
Yes, family members are allowed to remain in the UAE even after the death of the Golden Visa holder.