People around the world are under the impression that Dubai is all about luxury shopping and towering skyscrapers. But think again: Dubai has officially leveled up and is now not just a playground for the wealthy, but also their permanent residence.
Thanks to Dubai’s Golden Visa, top Indians, like many other countries, are also packing their bags and setting their sights on the UAE. Why wouldn’t you? With all the perks this visa offers, Dubai is more than just a rest stop; it’s the ultimate destination for those who have the cash and are ready to make a move.
Rajinikanth, a legendary figure in Indian cinema known for his bold roles and unmatched charisma, was recently awarded the prestigious Golden Visa for Dubai by the UAE’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism. This recognition makes Rajinikanth among a select group of global stars to have been granted a long-term residence visa, further cementing his international influence and ties with the UAE.
Vivek Oberoi is best known for his mesmerizing performances in Hindi films, but he has also made waves in Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada and Tamil movies. But he’s not just a film star. Vivek is also a shrewd businessman, making bold moves in Dubai’s real estate sector, with eight major projects currently transforming the skyline. And that’s not all – he’s also set to open five showrooms dedicated to lab-grown diamonds, setting the stage for even more glamour and adding some sparkle to his business portfolio.
And then there’s Bollywood’s king, Shah Rukh Khan, who reigns supreme not just in the film industry but also in the business world. Along with his wife Gauri Khan, Shah Rukh Khan is making waves in Dubai’s real estate and housing market. Backed by a massive investment of $66 billion, their mega projects are currently underway, combining luxury with innovation and proving that their influence extends far beyond the movie screen.
So what’s behind this golden ticket that has prompted India’s wealthy elite to say goodbye to their homes and businesses in India and relocate to the UAE? Let’s take a closer look.
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Dubai’s appeal grows
Dubai has transformed from a desert city into a global hub for business, innovation and exceptional quality of life. Henry & PartnersWithin India, the UAE has surpassed cities like New York, Miami and Paris to become the most popular destination for the ultra-rich. The report predicts that around 4,300 billionaires will leave India in 2024, with many of them choosing Dubai as their new home.
Manoj DharmaniHighlighting Dubai’s appeal, the DUDigital Global CEO said: “Dubai offers a high standard of living, world-class infrastructure and diverse leisure and entertainment options.” Safety is also a major attraction, with the city known for its low crime rate and political stability, making it an ideal environment for affluent families.
Golden Visa Benefits
Introduced in 2019, the UAE’s Golden Visa has become a major attraction for those looking to relocate. The long-term residence programme aims to attract talent and investors from around the world, and offers a number of perks that make it more attractive than similar programmes in other countries.
The Golden Visa is a 5-10 year residence permit that is renewable without the need for local sponsorship. Visa holders enjoy freedom of movement in and out of the UAE with minimal restrictions and can sponsor immediate family members. Additionally, the visa allows for 100% business ownership and allows you to sponsor an unlimited number of domestic workers.
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Qualifications and popularity
The Golden Visa is not just for the super-rich, it is designed to attract a wide range of professionals, including doctors, scientists, creative professionals, investors and entrepreneurs. For example, doctors must be approved by the Ministry of Health, while investors must deposit 2 million dirhams or pay a tax of 250,000 dirhams.
The program’s popularity is evident in the numbers: In 2023, Dubai issued 158,000 golden visas, more than double the 79,617 issued in 2022 and more than triple the 47,150 issued in 2021.
Cultural and economic influences
According to Business StandardDubai’s large Indian community and burgeoning startup ecosystem make it a particularly attractive destination for Indian entrepreneurs. Currently, more than 30% of Dubai’s startup community are Indian nationals, and the city’s business-supportive environment continues to attract even more talent.
Cultural ties between India and the UAE add to Dubai’s appeal, and the presence of a large Indian expatriate community estimated at over 3.5 million gives new arrivals a sense of familiarity and security, making it easier for them to adjust to life in Dubai.
Dubai’s Golden Visa, with its tax benefits, long-term residence options and strong investment opportunities, will continue to attract Indian affluents, cementing the city’s position as a global destination for prosperity and growth.
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