Author: Akshay Published Date: 08 July 2025
What’s New: Lifetime Residency by Nomination
The UAE has launched a pilot nomination-based Golden Visa, offering lifetime residency to eligible Indians and Bangladeshis for a one-time fee of AED 100,000 (₹23.3 lakh). This is a major shift, waiving previous investment requirements in real estate or business ventures, and opening the pathway to a broader range of professionals.
Who Qualifies? Spotlight on High-Value Talents
Under this new visa program, no prior investment is needed. Eligibility hinges on nomination and professional credentials:
- Educators (Govt., university lecturers).
- Healthcare professionals (senior nurses, doctors).
- Digital creators (YouTubers, podcasters).
- Tech talents (coders, ecommerce specialists).
- E-sports players, maritime workers, and yacht owners.
- startup founders and financial experts.
Notably, applicants must be nominated by an approved UAE partner (e.g., Rayad Group), followed by security checks and confirmation by UAE authoritie.
Fast Facts & Comparison
| Feature | Old Golden Visa | New Lifetime Nomination Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Investment Requirement | Property or business (AED 2M+) | None—only selection and fee |
| Residency Duration | 5 to 10 years (renewable) | Lifetime |
| Fee | Varies | One-time AED 100,000 (~₹23.3 lakh) |
| Family Sponsorship | Yes | Yes |
| Stay Flexibility | High | No risk on assets—stay anytime |
| Applicable Fields | Investors, specialized talent | Expanded sectors |
Why India Matters in This Policy
This is more than just a visa—it complements the UAE‑India CEPA (signed in 2022), which aims to bolster economic and labor ties.
It’s a pilot programme for 5,000+ applicants, likely to expand to other partner nations if successful.
What You Get: The Benefits Breakdown
Golden Visa holders enjoy:
- Permanent residency—no sponsor required.
- Ability to work, study, and start businesses.
- Family sponsorship—including domestic staff.
- Free travel in and out of the UAE with no expiry risk.
- Zero personal or capital gains taxes.
- Multiple-entry permit to initiate the process.
Unlike old investment-based visas, this residency remains valid even if a sponsor’s business or property is sold.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Nomination by a recognized agency (e.g., Rayad Group via VFS/One Vasco).
- Fee payment: AED 100,000 (~₹23.3 lakh)
- Background checks: AML, Criminal, Social media
- UAE approval
- Issuance of a lifetime visa and family sponsorship
Entirely online—no need to visit the UAE during the process.
Don’t Overlook the Cost of Living
A viral X-post by the user “Backpacking Daku” highlights that Dubai’s monthly life costs can be steep:
- Single adult’s monthly expense: ₹2.8 lakh
- Couple: ~₹3.9 lakh/month
- Couple with two children: ₹5 lakh/month
These expenses typically include rent, cars, food, transport, and some discretionary spending, excluding extras like healthcare, insurance, tolls, and domestic help. X user comments and expert warnings advise weighing these long-term costs carefully.
Strategic Implications for Indian Expats
- No investment pressure: No need to own or maintain property abroad.
- Attractive for high earners: Especially those with global income or remote work.
- Market cooling effect: Less speculative property buying from investors.
- Talent inflow: Supports UAE’s goal of becoming a knowledge and innovation hub.
Watch-Outs & Realistic Concerns
- The cost of living may negate savings from tax benefits
- Finalization is selective—nomination doesn’t guarantee approval
- Included professions might be revised over time
- Ballpark costs: Total spend (fee plus one-year expenses) easily crosses ₹40 lakh
- Lifestyle adaptation: Cultural, social, and climate adjustments matter
Key Takeaways
- Affordable entry: Lifetime residency for ₹23 lakh—no investments needed.
- Inclusive eligibility: Diverse professionals can benefit, such as educators, creators, and techies.
- Strategic partner move: Aligns with CEPA and deeper UAE‑India economic integration.
- Living standards: High uptime—free travel, work, business setup, healthcare access.
- Calculating real costs: Required before committing—budgeting is essential.