Starting February 13, 2025, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will offer visa-on-arrival to Indian nationals holding valid visas, residence permits, or Green Cards from six additional countries—Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. Previously, this privilege was limited to Indian travelers with valid documentation from the United States, the United Kingdom, and European…
The proposed Income Tax Bill, 2025, has introduced a subtle but significant change in the residential status clause under Indian tax laws. Previously, Indian citizens who moved abroad “for the purpose of employment” were granted relaxed tax residency provisions, requiring them to stay in India for less than 182 days in a financial year to…
The Income Tax Bill 2025 has retained the existing tax residency criteria, providing relief to Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). Earlier reports speculated that NRIs earning Rs 15 lakh or more in India while not paying taxes elsewhere would be reclassified as residents instead of Resident but Not Ordinarily Resident (RNOR). However, under the proposed bill, such…
The UAE is gearing up for a potentially record-breaking gold exchange programme in the coming days, coinciding with three major trade events—Gulfood, Dubai International Boat Show, and the IDEX defence exhibition in Abu Dhabi. Despite gold prices holding at a steep $2,900 per ounce, just shy of the February 10 peak of $2,940, industry insiders…
Dubai’s public parking operator, Parkin PJSC, has announced a new variable parking tariff near event venues, effective from Saturday, February 17. The updated rate will be set at Dh25 per hour during event hours, specifically in designated ‘Grand Event Zones,’ with the Dubai World Trade Centre being the first location to implement this pricing. The…
The United Arab Emirates has launched the first phase of the Blue Visa system, a 10-year residence visa dedicated to individuals contributing to environmental sustainability. Announced during the World Governments Summit 2025 in Dubai (February 11–13), the initiative is led by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment in collaboration with the Federal Authority for…
The UAE’s highly anticipated weight loss challenge is back, offering participants the chance to earn up to Dh300 for every kilogram lost. Now in its fifth edition, the RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge (RBWLC) will run for 12 weeks, from February 21 to May 22, with registration now open for free. Exciting New Categories This…
If you’re visiting Abu Dhabi or need a temporary public transport solution, Abu Dhabi Mobility (AD Mobility) offers cost-effective unlimited bus travel passes. These passes allow unlimited rides within Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra for either seven or 30 days. However, they do not cover intercity bus routes. Pass Options and Pricing…
Moscow City Tourism officials are optimistic that Russia’s expanded e-visa system, covering 60 nationalities, will attract more UAE-based expatriates. While Emirati citizens already enjoy visa-free entry to Russia for up to 90 days, expatriates from India, China, Austria, Japan, and several European nations can now apply for an e-visa online, receiving approval within four to…
To mark the 60th anniversary of strong ties between India and Singapore, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is rolling out special offers for Indian passport holders. In an exclusive interview, Consul-General Cheong Ming Foong and STB Regional Director Markus Tan shared the exciting initiatives aimed at further strengthening the bond between the two countries. In…
The Union Budget 2025 introduces tougher tax rules for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), including students and young professionals living abroad. Key changes include stricter monitoring of foreign income, expanded residency definitions for taxation, and potential impacts on tax treaty benefits. Students working in countries such as the US, UK, Canada, and Australia will face increased reporting…
Air India Express is expanding its services, making travel between the UAE and India more convenient. Starting February 4, the airline will introduce new routes to destinations such as Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah, and Dammam, responding to the increasing demand from UAE travelers. The UAE-India corridor is one of the world’s busiest, serving millions…