UAE Golden Visa: Rising Indian Applications in 2025
The UAE Golden Visa programme has become a preferred long-term residency option for Indian nationals, reflecting the deep and growing ties between the two countries. Home to an estimated 4 million Indians, the UAE hosts the largest expatriate community from India in West Asia, bolstering commercial and cultural connections.
Traditionally favored by investors and entrepreneurs, the Golden Visa now also includes professionals such as academics, scientists, journalists, athletes, and humanitarian activists nominated by the UAE embassy. This shift aligns with the UAE’s vision to evolve from an employment hub to a sustainable center for innovation, entrepreneurship, and cross-border opportunities.
Indian applicants represent a significant share of Golden Visa recipients, motivated by prospects of long-term stability and global market access. Investors depositing AED 2 million in accredited funds or owning properties worth this amount qualify for 10-year or 5-year visas, respectively. New pathways now allow charitable contributors and Waqf donors to obtain 10-year residency.
Specialized talents, including doctors, inventors, STEM experts, creative artists, and outstanding students, can secure visas lasting five or ten years. Humanitarian pioneers also qualify for longer-term residency.
While the Golden Visa facilitates ease of travel and business setup, it is not designed as a tax haven and does not confer full resident status. Applications are processed directly by the UAE embassy in New Delhi, assisted by authorized service providers who help with document verification while ensuring the process’s integrity.
The UAE ambassador emphasizes the programme’s strength in reinforcing the UAE-India partnership, fostering collaboration in culture, education, science, and innovation.
