Dubai residents can now renew their visas within minutes, thanks to a new AI-powered digital platform introduced by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). The platform, called Salama, streamlines the renewal process, eliminating paperwork and long wait times. Once users log in, AI automatically retrieves their details, displays their dependents’ visa status,…
Are you an expat looking to learn Arabic? The Zayed House of Islamic Culture (ZHIC) offers Arabic language courses for non-native speakers, available both remotely and in person. Registration is done through Tamm, Abu Dhabi’s official government services platform. Course Structure ZHIC’s Arabic courses are structured into different levels: Classes are available in both online…
Are you a writer, filmmaker, influencer, photographer, or digital storyteller looking for a long-term base? The UAE now offers content creators a Golden Visa, granting up to 10 years of residency without needing a national sponsor. This initiative provides stability and flexibility, making Dubai an ideal hub for creative professionals. What is the UAE Golden…
Indian expat and ultra-marathoner Aakash Nambiar, popularly known as the ‘Barefoot Mallu,’ completed a grueling 115km barefoot run from Hatta to Dubai’s Mushrif Park to promote ocean conservation. The 36-year-old Keralite, a passionate advocate for environmental causes, undertook this challenge to highlight the importance of protecting marine ecosystems. “The UAE has made remarkable progress in…
Indian expat Suresh Pavaiah received the ultimate birthday gift when he won the Dh3 million DSF Grand Prize in the latest Dream Dubai campaign. Originally from Tamil Nadu, India, the 45-year-old has been residing in the UAE since 2006. With his newfound fortune, he now plans to fulfill his long-time dream of launching a technical…
Buying property in India is a popular investment choice for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), driven by emotional ties, favorable policies, and financial opportunities. However, navigating the process requires a good understanding of regulations, financing options, and tax implications. Here’s what NRIs should know before making a real estate purchase in India. 1. Understanding Regulations NRIs must…
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…