In a major shift to its residency policy, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a revamped Golden Visa programme, now allowing foreign nationals—including Indian investors—to obtain lifetime residency by paying a fixed fee of AED 1,00,000 (approximately ₹23.3 lakh). Industry experts, especially from the real estate sector, are calling this a paradigm shift in the country’s immigration and investment landscape.
Highlights of the New UAE Golden Visa Rule:
- Lifetime Residency: A one-time payment of AED 1,00,000 now grants lifetime residency status.
- No Need for Real Estate Investment: Previously, investors had to commit at least AED 2 million (~₹4.7 crore) in UAE property for a 10-year renewable visa.
- Inclusive & Nomination-Based: The programme aims to broaden access and align with the UAE’s long-term development vision.
- First Phase Includes India & Bangladesh: Over 5,000 applications expected in three months.
Impact on Indian Real Estate Investors
According to Akash Puri, Director – International at India Sotheby’s International Realty, the change brings a “two-pronged impact” on Indian investor behaviour:
- Reduced Pressure for Residency-Driven Investment:
“With lifetime visas now accessible via direct payment, many Indian investors may no longer feel compelled to purchase UAE property solely for immigration benefits,” says Puri.
This could lead to:- A cool-down in speculative buying, particularly in the mid-market and entry-level real estate segments.
- A recalibration of strategy towards long-term value creation rather than short-term residency goals.
- Increased Focus on Strategic Investment:
For serious investors, especially those eyeing rental yields, lifestyle upgrades, or portfolio diversification, attention will now shift to:- Location quality
- Developer credibility
- Asset appreciation potential
“Ultra-HNWIs will likely continue buying luxury and trophy properties,” Puri adds, as their motivations extend beyond the visa.
From Residency-Led to Value-Led Approach
This visa policy reform, if confirmed officially, is expected to de-risk the property market from speculative surges and make it more resilient. Indian investors are now encouraged to focus on:
- Fundamentals over fast-tracks
- Long-term rental performance
- Asset diversification
“This is a cue for Indian investors to transition from residency-led transactions to value-led strategies,” Puri noted. “Over time, this will lead to a more stable, mature UAE property market.”
Awaiting Official Notification
While the policy has already made headlines, an official government notification from the UAE is still awaited. Early reports indicate that India and Bangladesh are part of the initial rollout, with over 5,000 slots available in the first three months of launch.
For Indian investors, this new Golden Visa regime marks a dramatic easing of entry into the UAE. No longer limited by high real estate investment thresholds, the door is now open to a broader base of professionals, entrepreneurs, and long-term strategic investors. The shift from a visa-driven to a value-driven real estate strategy may redefine how Indian capital flows into the UAE—potentially setting the tone for a more rational and resilient market ahead.