UAE’s Golden Visa Revolution: Lifetime Residency, No Investment Required

A Game-Changer for Global Mobility: UAE’s New Golden Visa

The United Arab Emirates has just rewritten the rulebook on long-term residency. In a landmark move, the UAE has launched a nomination-based Golden Visa program, granting lifetime residency without any mandatory property purchase or business investment.

This significant shift signals a broader vision: attracting skilled professionals, innovators, and contributors who can enrich the UAE’s economy and global standing.

For B2B travel agents, corporate travel planners, and aviation professionals advising high-net-worth clients or globally mobile talent, this update opens new strategic conversations and opportunities.

Understanding the UAE Golden Visa

Traditionally, the UAE Golden Visa provided foreign nationals with 5- or 10-year renewable residency based on investment thresholds, often requiring AED 2 million or more in real estate or business assets.

The new nomination-based pathway, however, takes an entirely different approach. Instead of demanding financial commitments, it’s merit-driven, spotlighting talent, expertise, and future potential.

Inside the New Nomination-Based Golden Visa

Here’s what makes this visa truly unique:

• No property or business investment required

• One-time fee of AED 100,000 (approx. ₹23.3 lakh)

• Lifetime residency granted—no renewals or extensions needed

• Based entirely on professional merit and nomination rather than financial outlay

For professionals who previously hesitated due to investment requirements, this visa represents unprecedented access to one of the world’s fastest-growing hubs for commerce, innovation, and lifestyle.

Who Can Apply?

The UAE has launched this initiative in a pilot phase, initially open to:

• Indian and Bangladeshi nationals

• Professionals from diverse sectors such as culture, trade, science, finance, startups, and professional services

The UAE expects significant uptake from Indian applicants—forecasting over 5,000 applications within the first three months—highlighting strong interest from entrepreneurs and skilled talent seeking stable residency options.

What Does It Cost?

Unlike traditional residency-by-investment programs that need large investments, this program has a simple and affordable cost:

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

• Recurring Cost: None

• Property Purchase: Not required

This fixed cost makes the program very attractive for professionals who want flexibility and mobility without tying up money in property or other assets.

How the Nomination Process Works

Candidates don’t simply submit an online form and wait. The process is rigorous and ensures that only high-caliber professionals and contributors receive nominations.

Evaluation includes:

• Criminal background checks

• Anti-money laundering (AML) compliance

• Social media scrutiny

• Assessment of professional impact in sectors like science, culture, trade, startups, and finance

Once cleared, applicants are formally nominated and their dossiers forwarded to UAE immigration authorities for final approval.

Who Manages Applications?

The Rayad Group has been appointed as the official consultant managing this nomination-based visa process.

Here’s how it works:

• Rayad Group screens and assesses applicants

• Applications can be submitted online or via dedicated call centres

• Shortlisted candidates’ details are shared with the UAE authorities for approval

• Collaboration with VFS and One Vasco centres across India and Bangladesh ensures a streamlined, professional process
  
  

Why Is the UAE Launching This?

The UAE’s decision is deeply connected to expanding economic ties with India and other strategic partners. Following the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in 2022, the UAE aims to facilitate talent migration that strengthens mutual economic growth.

The government has already signalled plans to expand this nomination model to other key CEPA nations—including China—reinforcing the UAE’s position as a global talent magnet.

Key Benefits for Professionals and the B2B Travel Industry

This policy shift brings significant advantages:

• Lifetime residency with zero renewal hassles

• Freedom to bring family members, employ staff, or start a business

• No risk of losing residency status due to property sales or career changes

• Tailored for talented professionals and contributors, not just high-net-worth investors

For B2B travel agents and corporate travel managers, this opens fresh opportunities to advise clients on global mobility, new market entry, and family relocation planning.

Is This Worth It for Indian and Bangladeshi Professionals?

If you’re an Indian or Bangladeshi national with a solid professional record—or ambitions in sectors like science, culture, or entrepreneurship—this is an unprecedented opportunity.

You’re no longer bound by real estate investments or business capital. Instead, the new Golden Visa rewards skill, potential, and meaningful contributions.

For B2B professionals in travel and aviation, understanding and guiding clients through such evolving residency options is key to delivering exceptional service and strategic value.

Takeaway for B2B Travel Professionals

The UAE’s nomination-based Golden Visa represents a paradigm shift in global residency planning. For B2B travel agents, consolidators, and corporate planners, staying informed about these changes can directly enhance your advisory services and expand your portfolio of solutions for internationally mobile clients.

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