Dubai, July 7, 2025: In a landmark move, the United Arab Emirates has launched a new nomination-based Golden Visa program for Indian nationals, drastically reducing the minimum financial requirement for long-term residency. Until now, the 10-year UAE Golden Visa required a minimum investment of AED 2 million, approximately ₹4.66 crore in real estate or business. Under the new scheme, eligible Indians can now secure residency by paying a one-time fee of just AED 100,000, which equals approximately ₹23.3 lakh.

The initiative, currently rolled out as a pilot program, marks a significant departure from the wealth-based model that has been the foundation of the UAE’s long-term residency framework. The UAE government has partnered with Rayad Group, a private firm appointed to handle the nomination and verification process in India and Bangladesh. Through this route, selected individuals undergo a detailed background check, which includes criminal history, financial credibility, and social media activity to ensure alignment with UAE standards. Approved applicants are required to make a pre-approval visit to Dubai before completing their application in India.

Unlike earlier Golden Visas linked to real estate investments, the nomination-based visa is not dependent on holding assets in the UAE. This means visa holders can continue to reside in the country even if they do not own property or actively maintain their original source of investment. The new visa also allows for full family sponsorship, making it especially attractive for professionals with dependents.

The scope of eligibility under the new system has also widened considerably. Besides business owners and investors, professionals such as teachers, nurses, engineers, digital content creators, e-sports players, scientists, and senior corporate executives can apply under the nomination route. This is seen as a strategic shift to attract global talent across industries, not just individuals with high capital.

According to UAE authorities and program coordinators, over 5,000 Indians are expected to apply for the Golden Visa through this new route within the next three months. The initiative is designed to strengthen the UAE’s workforce with highly skilled professionals, foster innovation, and reduce dependency on investment-driven migration.

The Golden Visa grants long-term residency benefits including permission to live, work, and run a business in the UAE without the need for a national sponsor. It also enables visa holders to employ domestic help, register for health insurance, and access banking and housing services at par with Emirati citizens.

India already has one of the largest expatriate communities in the UAE, and this new development is expected to deepen bilateral ties while offering more affordable and accessible relocation options for Indian professionals. With no annual renewal hassles and complete freedom from property ownership obligations, the nomination-based Golden Visa offers a stable and attractive opportunity for Indians looking to build a future in the Emirates.