The United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) Golden Visa program is proving to be a significant draw for Indian nationals, with a substantial number of Indians applying for this long-term residency. This initiative is attracting investors, entrepreneurs, innovators, scientists, and accomplished academics and artists, underscoring the strong and diverse relationship between India and the UAE.
While the program traditionally appealed to high-net-worth individuals, the UAE embassy has also extended nominations to individuals with specialized talents, including academics, scientists, journalists, athletes, and humanitarian activists. This reflects the UAE’s strategic shift from merely an employment hub to a thriving center for innovation, entrepreneurship, and global opportunities for Indian talent.
Official figures on nationality-specific visa issuance are not publicly disclosed. However, sources indicate that Indian applicants constitute a significant portion of Golden Visa applications. This trend is fueled by professionals and investors seeking long-term stability and efficient access to international markets.
UAE Ambassador Abdulnasser Alshaali highlighted the program’s success, stating, “The remarkable interest in the UAE’s Golden Visa programme from Indian nationals is a testament to the depth and diversity of our bilateral relationship… It reflects the enduring people-to-people connections that continue to strengthen the UAE–India partnership, and our shared vision for a future built on opportunity and collaboration.”
With approximately four million Indians residing in the UAE, the country hosts its largest expatriate community and one of the largest Indian populations in West Asia. This robust community underpins the strong commercial and cultural ties, with bilateral trade reaching $100 billion in 2024-25, positioning the UAE as India’s third-largest trade partner.
Since its expansion in 2022, the Golden Visa program has experienced remarkable growth. In Dubai alone, the number of Golden Visas issued nearly doubled from about 79,600 in 2022 to approximately 158,000 in 2023. The program allows eligible foreigners to obtain a five or 10-year visa without the need for a sponsor.
Eligibility criteria include depositing AED 2 million in an accredited investment fund for a 10-year Golden Visa, or owning property valued at AED 2 million for a five-year visa. New categories now include contributors to charity work and Waqf donors, offering 10-year residency. Individuals with specialized talents, such as doctors, scientists, artists, engineers, and athletes, can also qualify for 10-year visas with the necessary approvals.
It’s important to note that the Golden Visa is not primarily positioned as a tax break, nor does it automatically grant residency. The main focus is on facilitating travel and establishing businesses.
The UAE embassy in New Delhi manages all Golden Visa applications directly, collaborating with specialized service providers to streamline the process. These providers assist with document submission and verification, with final visa decisions resting with UAE government authorities. The ambassador advised applicants to verify the legitimacy of service providers directly with the embassy.