The UAE Golden Visa continues to be one of the most attractive long-term residence programs for global professionals, investors, and talented individuals. In a major update to the visa policy, Indian nationals can now obtain lifetime UAE residency by paying a nomination-based fee of AED 100,000 (approximately ₹23.3 lakh), eliminating the need for multi-crore property investments.
What is the UAE Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa is a long-term residence permit that allows foreigners to live, work, or study in the UAE while enjoying exclusive benefits not available to regular residents. Initially introduced to attract global talent and boost economic growth, the Golden Visa now extends its reach with even greater ease and flexibility.
Who Can Apply for the UAE Golden Visa?The visa is open to a wide range of applicants, including:
- Investors
- Entrepreneurs
- Scientists and Researchers
- Outstanding Students and Graduates
- Frontline Heroes and Medical Professionals
- Humanitarian Pioneers
Key Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa
The Golden Visa comes with several privileges designed to support long-term settlement and family stability:
- Multiple-entry entry permit valid for six months during visa processing
- 5- or 10-year renewable residence visa without requiring a local sponsor
- Freedom to stay outside the UAE for over six months without losing residency status
- Family sponsorship for spouses and children—with no age restrictions
- Unlimited domestic helper sponsorship rights
- In the event of the visa holder’s death, family members can stay in the UAE until their visa term ends
New Lifetime Golden Visa for Indians: A Game-Changer
Under the nomination-based Golden Visa scheme, Indian citizens can now access lifetime residency in the UAE by paying AED 100,000 — without having to invest in real estate. This shift in policy makes the Golden Visa far more affordable and accessible for middle-income professionals, entrepreneurs, and skilled workers.Real Estate No Longer a Barrier
Previously, securing a 10-year Golden Visa required a minimum investment of AED 2 million (approximately ₹4.7 crore) in UAE real estate. With the updated policy, the entry barrier is significantly lowered. This move is expected to reshape real estate trends, particularly by:
- Reducing speculative property purchases made solely for residency eligibility
- Encouraging value-based, long-term investments based on fundamentals like location and developer credibility
- Shifting the focus of Indian investors from residency-led buying to strategic asset acquisition
Impact on Indian Investment Trends
According to market experts, this policy revision will lead to a more stable and mature real estate ecosystem in the UAE. Ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) may still pursue luxury properties, but mid-market investors can now make choices based on financial sense rather than residency needs.
“For Indian investors, this is a signal to realign strategies — moving from quick-entry buying to sustainable, value-driven investments,” experts say.
Golden Visa Rollout: What’s Next?
As per initial reports, the new policy is being piloted with India and Bangladesh, with over 5,000 applications expected in the first three months of rollout. While there has been no formal announcement from the UAE government yet, many stakeholders confirm that the program is already gaining traction.
How to Apply for the UAE Golden Visa?
Applicants can explore and submit their Golden Visa requests via official UAE digital platforms. Nomination-based applications may require documentation proving exceptional talent, contribution to industry, or other eligibility factors. A structured process is expected to follow once official channels open up for lifetime visa requests.
Final Thoughts
The UAE Golden Visa 2025 is not just a residency program—it’s an invitation for global citizens, especially Indians, to build their future in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. With simplified rules, reduced costs, and long-term benefits, the new nomination-based system is set to redefine expat life in the Emirates.