A Game-Changer for Skilled Indians in the Gulf
In a significant departure from its traditional investment-focused immigration model, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has launched a groundbreaking nomination-based Golden Visa programme specifically targeting Indian nationals. For the first time, this initiative offers lifetime residency in the UAE without requiring large property or business investments. Instead, the new visa recognizes skills, talent, and professional contributions, making it more accessible to a broader section of Indian society — from nurses and teachers to YouTubers and maritime professionals.
What Is the UAE’s Golden Visa Programme?
The Golden Visa programme was initially introduced by the UAE in 2019 as a way to grant long-term residency to investors, entrepreneurs, high-achieving students, and specialists in certain fields. Traditionally, applicants needed to invest significantly in real estate or businesses to qualify.
Now, the programme has been revamped. The new nomination-based Golden Visa allows skilled professionals to gain permanent residency without any investment, solely based on their professional credentials and societal contributions. This includes content creators, nurses, executives, educators, and even e-sports players and yacht owners.
This shift aligns with the UAE’s vision of attracting diverse global talent to strengthen its knowledge-based economy, and it opens the door wide for Indian professionals and creatives to participate in the country’s long-term growth.
Who Can Apply? A Broader, More Inclusive Scope
Unlike earlier versions of the Golden Visa, which largely catered to the ultra-wealthy or elite professionals, the new model embraces a much wider talent pool.
Eligible individuals include:
· Healthcare professionals (especially nurses with over 15 years of experience)
· Teachers, principals, and university faculty
· Scientists, startup founders, and professionals in finance or trade
· Content creators, including YouTubers, podcasters, and e-sports professionals aged 25+
· Luxury yacht owners and maritime industry leaders
This broadened eligibility reflects the UAE’s commitment to becoming a global hub for innovation, education, and culture — not just commerce.
How Does the Process Work?
The nomination-based Golden Visa costs AED 100,000 (approx. ₹23.3 lakh) and is currently being piloted in India and Bangladesh. Applications are processed through Rayad Group, the consultancy overseeing this initiative in India.
The application process includes:
· Pre-screening for criminal records, anti-money laundering compliance, and social media activity.
· Evaluation of the applicant’s potential contribution to UAE’s economy or society in sectors like education, science, finance, or media.
· Forwarding the application to the UAE government for final approval.
Importantly, no travel to Dubai is necessary to begin the application. Candidates can apply through One Vasco centres in India and Bangladesh, via online portals, or by contacting the dedicated call centre.
According to Rayad Kamal Ayub, Managing Director of Rayad Group, over 5,000 Indian applicants are expected in the first three months alone.
What About Family and Benefits?
One of the most attractive features of this new visa is that it allows for family sponsorship. Golden Visa holders can:
· Bring their spouse, children, and dependents to the UAE.
· Employ domestic staff.
· Engage in business, freelancing, or professional work within the country.
Unlike property-linked visas that expire if the property is sold, this nomination-based Golden Visa is permanent, offering true long-term stability for expats and their families.
A Strategic Step in UAE-India Relations
India’s inclusion in the pilot phase reflects the deepening bilateral ties between the UAE and India, particularly since the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) came into effect in May 2022. The Golden Visa initiative is viewed as a strategic extension of CEPA, aimed at facilitating deeper human capital exchange between the two nations.
While India and Bangladesh are the initial focus, other CEPA member nations, such as China, may be added in future expansions of the programme.
A Lifetime Opportunity, Redefined
The UAE’s new Golden Visa represents a paradigm shift in how nations attract foreign talent. By moving away from wealth-based eligibility and embracing skills, social impact, and professional merit, the UAE has created a more inclusive and aspirational residency model.
For Indian professionals, creatives, and entrepreneurs, this is more than just a visa — it’s an open invitation to build a life, contribute to a fast-growing nation, and gain lasting security in the Gulf. With streamlined access, family benefits, and permanent residency, the opportunity is truly golden — and, for many, life-changing.
(With agency inputs)
