Starting September 1, Indian expats in Dubai applying for new passports or renewals must follow updated photo guidelines set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). The Indian Consulate announced that all applications now require ICAO-compliant photographs, ensuring global biometric and travel document standards. Key requirements include: The directive, issued by India’s Ministry of External…
India’s economy has long awaited a breakthrough to propel it into higher growth. While recent reforms—like income tax rebates and GST rationalisation—offer temporary relief, there is one simple policy shift that could create a permanent cycle of economic activity: restoring the old tax residency rule for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). From 182 Days to 120 Days…
The Embassy of India has announced the relocation of the BLS International Centre in the capital. Effective August 25, 2025, the centre has shifted from Shams Boutique Mall, Al Reem, to its new premises at Wafra Square Building, 3rd Floor, Office No. 342, Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi. Applicants seeking passport, visa, and other consular…
Indian property buyers have been cautioned against using international credit cards to make down payments on real estate abroad, as it could lead to legal and financial complications. Experts explained that under India’s Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), property purchases abroad are classified as capital account transactions. However, international credit cards are permitted only for…
For many non-resident Indians (NRIs) living in the UAE, an Aadhaar card has become an essential document. It is widely used for accessing banking services, registering mobile numbers, and availing various government services in India. More recently, CBSE schools in the UAE have begun requesting Aadhaar details to generate an Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry…
A new directive from the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) in India on the mandatory submission of APAAR IDs for board exam registration has caused confusion among Indian expat students and parents in the UAE. Earlier this month, CBSE made it compulsory for students in India to provide APAAR IDs, which are generated using…
Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) investing in mutual funds in India often ask whether they must file a tax return if tax is already deducted at source (TDS). The answer depends on how capital gains are classified under Indian income tax law. Long-term capital gains on mutual fundsSince the investment was made in 2019, the mutual fund…
Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) investing in Indian real estate now have stronger safeguards, thanks to the latest changes in the country’s insolvency laws. Earlier, homebuyers who had fully paid for their property often faced long delays in taking possession if the developer entered insolvency proceedings. They had to wait until a resolution was finalized, which created…
The UAE has introduced a new rule requiring all travellers carrying valuables worth more than Dh60,000 ($16,300) to file a mandatory online customs declaration before entering or leaving the country. The process, implemented through the Afseh digital platform, applies at major airports and is aimed at improving border transparency, security, and compliance. Who Needs to…
The UAE Ministry of Education has announced a revised structure for the national academic calendar starting from the 2025–2026 school year. The plan, approved by the Education, Human Development, and Community Development Council (EHCD), sets standardized start and end dates for terms and holidays across all public and private schools. Key Dates for the 2025–2026…
A major policy change by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is being hailed as a turning point in UAE–India economic relations. Business leaders and trade experts predict the move will help non-oil trade between the two countries surpass $100 billion well before 2030 — a target once thought to be years away. The reform…
India’s Titan Company, owner of Tanishq, will complete the integration of Dubai-based jeweller Damas within the next 3–6 months, following its acquisition of a 67% stake for $280 million from Qatar’s Mannai Corporation. The deal gives Titan immediate access to Damas’ 146 stores and a jewellery manufacturing facility in Dubai, significantly boosting its Gulf presence….