The United Arab Emirates has unveiled a groundbreaking nomination‑based pathway to its prestigious Golden Visa, offering selected Indian and Bangladeshi nationals the opportunity to secure lifetime residency for a one‑time fee of AED 100,000 (approximately Rs 23.3 lakh). This marks a significant shake‑up from the traditional model, which required applicants to invest at least AED 2 million (circa Rs 4.66 crore) in real estate or businesses.
Under the new arrangements, only individuals with distinguished professional credentials or demonstrable contributions to sectors such as education, healthcare, digital media, e‑sports, maritime, research and culture will be eligible. Qualified candidates must receive nominations via approved UAE agencies—currently managed through India by entities including Rayad Group in partnership with VFS Global and One Vasco. Once nominated and vetted, applicants can submit documents for lifetime residency, complete background and security checks, and pay the fee—with no requirement to invest in UAE property or start a business.
The revamped visa grants lifelong privileges: long‑term residency with no need for a local sponsor, eligibility to sponsor family members (spouse, children, even elderly parents and domestic staff), freedom to travel in and out of the UAE without affecting validity, and rights to live and work across the federation.
This pilot initiative aligns with the UAE–India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), reinforcing strengthened bilateral economic and cultural ties. It is expected to stimulate interest among India’s skilled middle-class, with around 5,000 Indians projected to apply within the first 90 days. The nomination-based model aims to shift the UAE’s residency focus from wealth to talent, reflecting a broader strategy to enhance its knowledge-based and innovation-driven economy.
However, observers caution against equating the scheme’s low financial barrier with easy access. Experts and social‑media commentators note that payment alone does not guarantee approval of lifetime residency; applicants must still meet strict merit-based criteria, and are advised to factor in the UAE’s high cost of living. Security clearances and comprehensive background screenings are standard parts of the vetting process.
Application steps are streamlined: nomination via an authorised agency, document submission, fee payment, background checks, and awaiting government approval. Visa issuance is managed digitally through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), or platforms like Dubai’s GDRFA. Significantly, shortlisted applicants can complete most formalities from India without needing to travel to the UAE.
Overall, the UAE’s nomination‑based Golden Visa scheme offers a compelling opportunity for qualified Indians to secure golden‑era rights in the Gulf—without mandating major financial investment. With its emphasis on talent and long‑term residency benefits, the initiative signals a strategic pivot in the UAE’s approach to expatriate engagement, while deepening India‑UAE ties.
