Dubai Golden Visa: Your Complete Guide to UAE Lifetime Residency

️ Introduction

Dubai Golden Visa is a special residency program that lets foreigners live, work, and study in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for a long time, with many exclusive benefits. The UAE has made it even easier for people—especially Indians—to get this visa and enjoy a lifetime of opportunities in Dubai.
In this article, you’ll discover everything about the Dubai Golden Visa: requirements, benefits, new rules for Indians, income tax in Dubai, and a comparison with the USA Golden Visa.

✨ What Is the Dubai Golden Visa?

The Dubai Golden Visa is a long-term residence visa introduced by the UAE government. It allows foreigners to stay in the UAE for 5, 10 years, or even for a lifetime, depending on the category.
This visa is open to investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, students, and now, through a new model, even more people from India and other countries.

Key Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa

• Long-term residency: Stay in the UAE for 5, 10 years, or lifetime, with easy renewals.

• No local sponsor needed: You don’t need a UAE citizen to sponsor your visa.

• Family sponsorship: Bring your spouse, children (any age), and domestic staff.

• Freedom of travel: Stay outside the UAE for more than six months without losing your residency.

• Work, study, and do business: Full rights to work, study, or start a business.

• Tax advantages: No personal income tax on your salary or wages.

• Property ownership: Buy and own property in Dubai and other Emirates.

UAE Golden Visa Lifetime Residency: What’s New?

Previously, the Golden Visa was for 5 or 10 years—mainly for those investing at least AED 2 million (about ₹4.66 crore) in real estate or business.
Now, the UAE has launched a nomination-based Golden Visa that offers lifetime residency for a one-time fee of AED 100,000 (about ₹23.3 lakh), especially for Indians and Bangladeshis as part of a pilot program.

What Is Lifetime Residency?

• Permanent stay: Live in the UAE for life, as long as you follow the rules.

• No renewals needed: The new model gives you permanent status.

• Family included: Your family also enjoys lifetime residency.

UAE Golden Visa Requirements

Requirements depend on your background and the category you apply under. Here are the main categories and their requirements:

1. Investors

• Invest at least AED 2 million in a UAE-accredited fund or real estate (traditional route).

• For the new nomination-based model, pay a one-time fee of AED 100,000 (about ₹23.3 lakh) if nominated.

2. Entrepreneurs

• Own a business or a startup of a technical or future nature.

• Get approval from UAE authorities.

‍⚕️ 3. Skilled Professionals

• Specialized skills in medicine, science, education, arts, or sports.

• Submit proof of qualifications and achievements.

4. Outstanding Students

• Top students from UAE or international schools and universities.

• Academic excellence and recommendations.

5. Nomination-Based (New for Indians)

• One-time fee: AED 100,000.

• No investment needed: No property or business required.

• Nomination: Based on your professional background, skills, or contributions.

General Documents Needed

• Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)

• Passport-size photo

• UAE entry permit or valid residency (if applying from inside UAE)

• Medical fitness test results

• Police clearance certificate (UAE)

• Proof of financial self-sufficiency

• Private health insurance from a UAE-approved provider

UAE Golden Visa for Indians: The New Opportunity

Indians now have a unique chance to get the UAE Golden Visa without investing in property or business!

• One-time payment: AED 100,000 (about ₹23.3 lakh)

• No investment needed

• Nomination process: Based on skills, achievements, or societal contributions

• Fast processing: Thousands of Indians are expected to apply

Who Can Apply?

• Professionals (doctors, engineers, teachers, digital creators, etc.)

• Entrepreneurs and investors

• Outstanding students

• People with special talents or achievements

Income Tax in Dubai: What You Need to Know

One of the biggest attractions of living in Dubai is its tax-free environment:

• No personal income tax: Residents, including expatriates, do not pay any tax on salaries or wages.

• No capital gains tax

• No wealth tax

• Corporate tax: Only for businesses with profits above AED 375,000 at 9%. Small businesses and individuals are usually exempt.

• Property taxes: Only small fees on property transactions, not annual property tax.

What Does This Mean for You?

• Higher take-home pay

• Better savings

• Attractive for professionals and entrepreneurs

How to Apply for the Dubai Golden Visa

1. Choose your category: Investor, entrepreneur, skilled professional, student, or nomination-based.

2. Gather documents: Passport, photos, health insurance, proof of funds, police clearance, etc.

3. Apply online: Use the official UAE government portal or an authorized agency.

4. Pay the fees: AED 100,000 for the new nomination-based model for Indians.

5. Wait for approval: Processing takes 2 to 6 weeks.

6. Get your visa: Receive a multiple-entry visa to finalize your residency in Dubai.

vs Comparing UAE Golden Visa vs. USA Golden Visa

Can I bring my family with the UAE Golden Visa?

Yes! You can sponsor your spouse, children of any age, and unlimited domestic staff.

Do I have to pay income tax in Dubai?

No! There is no personal income tax in Dubai for residents and expatriates.

Can Indians get the UAE Golden Visa without investment?

Yes! Under the new nomination-based model, Indians can get lifetime residency by paying a one-time fee of AED 100,000, with no property or business investment required.

How long does it take to get the Golden Visa?

Usually 2 to 6 weeks, depending on your category and documents.

Is the UAE Golden Visa better than the USA Golden Visa?

It depends on your goals. The UAE offers tax-free living and a simpler, faster process, while the USA offers a path to citizenship but requires a higher investment and has income tax.

Conclusion

The Dubai Golden Visa is an amazing opportunity for anyone looking for long-term or lifetime residency in a vibrant, tax-free city. With the new rules—especially for Indians—getting the Golden Visa is now easier and more affordable than ever.
Whether you are a professional, entrepreneur, or investor, Dubai welcomes you with open arms and endless possibilities.
Compare your options, check your eligibility, and start your journey to a better future in the UAE today!