Though unconfirmed, the idea highlights UAE’s push for skilled global talent beyond traditional investment
Dubai / New Delhi: Reports of the UAE launching an updated Golden Visa program for Indians at ₹23 lakh have taken social media by storm. While the UAE government has officially denied such claims, the buzz reflects a growing interest in affordable residency pathways for skilled professionals.
The original Golden Visa program, introduced in 2019, required individuals to invest a minimum of ₹4.67 crore (AED 5 million) in real estate or business. The visa was valid for 5 to 10 years, subject to renewal. If the investment was withdrawn or the property sold, the visa would be revoked.
Tax-free lifestyle attracts many
The appeal of the UAE residency lies in its zero income tax, no capital gains, and no inheritance tax—making it a top destination for global professionals and entrepreneurs.
New rumours, new targets
According to unverified reports, the new version of the scheme may cost just ₹23 lakh and targets India’s upper-middle-class professionals, rather than high-net-worth investors.
A PTI report claimed that over 5,000 Indians could apply within just three months if the nomination-based scheme is introduced.
Unlike the original investment-heavy model, the new eligibility reportedly includes:
Teachers with over 15 years’ experience
Principals and university faculty
Researchers and scientists
Experienced nurses
Digital creators like YouTubers and podcasters with over 25 years of activity
Strategic move to fill skill gaps
If the reports are accurate, this could be a strategic shift. According to a Khaleej Times report earlier this year, the UAE faces talent shortages in sectors like engineering, sales, cybersecurity, AI, and cloud computing.
Attracting skilled professionals could be the country’s way of boosting its knowledge economy, alongside traditional capital investment.
Not just money, but merit
Even if ₹23 lakh is the expected financial requirement, it will not guarantee visa approval.
Applicants would need to clear strict background checks, merit-based nominations, and show a proven record of excellence in their respective fields.
So far, the UAE government has denied any such update to its Golden Visa policy. However, the attention the idea has drawn shows there is a huge appetite for mid-level global mobility programs—especially from countries like India.
As of now, the official Golden Visa policy remains unchanged. Only time will tell if this buzz becomes a real opportunity for Indian professionals.
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#UAENews #GoldenVisa #UAEVisaForIndians #SkilledMigration #IndiaUAE #ResidencyVisa #DigitalNomads #MiddleEastJobs #ProfessionalMigration #TaxFreeLiving #UAE2025 #KhaleejTimes #PTIReport
