DUBAI- In a strategic policy shift, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a nomination-based Golden Visa for Indian nationals, removing the need for a property purchase or business license. The initiative, tested in India and Bangladesh, is being facilitated by Rayad Group and supported by visa service provider One Vasco.
Under this new scheme, eligible Indians can acquire lifelong residency in the UAE (DXB) by paying a one-time fee of AED 100,000 (₹23.3 lakh), pending background verification and official nomination.
Photo- Royal Visa DubaiUAE New Golden Visa
Unlike the traditional route which required investments of at least AED 2 million (₹4.66 crore) in property or substantial business ventures, the nomination-based model enables a wider pool of applicants to secure the UAE’s coveted Golden Visa.
According to Rayad Kamal Ayub, Managing Director of Rayad Group, this process offers “a golden opportunity” for Indians seeking residency rights in the Emirates.
Over 5,000 Indian citizens are expected to apply for the new Golden Visa within the next three months.
The UAE government has selected India and Bangladesh for the pilot phase, indicating the strong diplomatic and economic ties with these CEPA (Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement) signatory nations.
Background Checks and Nomination Process
Each application under the nomination pathway undergoes a thorough background check, covering:
- Anti-money laundering clearance
- Criminal record verification
- Social media audit
- Evaluation of potential contributions to the UAE’s economy, society, or culture
The Rayad Group is responsible for vetting applicants and submitting eligible nominations to UAE immigration authorities. Approval remains at the sole discretion of the Emirati government.
Peak Travel Advisory – Check in desk; Photo- EmiratesApplication and Visa Benefits
Prospective applicants do not need to visit the UAE initially. Pre-approvals can be obtained from India through:
- One Vasco visa centres
- Registered Rayad Group offices
- The group’s online portal and call center
Key benefits of the nomination-based Golden Visa include:
- Lifetime UAE residency
- Permission to sponsor family, domestic staff, and drivers
- Freedom to engage in any professional or business activity
- No cancellation upon property sale, unlike the property-based visa
Strategic Bilateral Expansion
The rollout of this program highlights the UAE’s strengthening bilateral relations with India following the CEPA agreement in May 2022. The visa’s launch is part of a broader pilot initiative that will expand to other CEPA partners, including China.
The selection of India for the first phase further demonstrates the mutual strategic importance of Indo-UAE ties, both economically and geopolitically.
Photo: Free photo Flag Identification Travel Passport Usa Visa – Max PixelUnique Approach
Approximately 40 countries worldwide continue tightening standard immigration pathways while preserving investment-based residency programs. These golden visa initiatives create opportunities for wealthy individuals to obtain residential status through substantial financial commitments.
Traditional Golden Visas, including those offered by countries such as Portugal, Greece, and Malta, require financial commitments in the form of real estate purchases, bonds, or business investments. The UAE’s updated approach departs from this model to support human capital rather than just financial investment.
This mirrors trends seen globally, where countries are reconsidering golden visa structures.
For instance, the United States is planning to overhaul its EB-5 investor visa program into a proposed “gold card” model with higher investment thresholds. This initiative would grant residency rights and citizenship prospects in exchange for USD 5 million in investments, demonstrating the competitive nature of international talent acquisition.
The UAE’s largest airline, Emirates (EK), operates from Dubai International Airport (DXB)—a major global hub that will serve as the likely port of entry for most new visa holders. Etihad Airways (EY), based in Abu Dhabi (AUH), also plays a pivotal role in inbound traffic and residency-related travel.
These carriers are expected to play a critical role in facilitating the influx of new Golden Visa residents, with direct connectivity from key Indian cities.
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40 Countries Providing the Golden Visas in 2025
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