The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has rolled out an unprecedented version of its prestigious Golden Visa program—this time tailored specifically for Indian and Bangladeshi nationals under a nomination-based system, and without the requirement for any investment. The initiative signals a shift in UAE’s long-term residency strategy, aimed at attracting high-potential individuals based on merit and contribution, rather than financial commitments.
🔹 What Is the New Nomination-Based Golden Visa?
This new Golden Visa is a lifetime residency permit introduced under a pilot program that removes the traditional conditions such as mandatory property purchases or business investments. Instead of monetary qualifications, the selection is merit-based and is driven by contribution potential to the UAE in key areas such as:
- Trade and commerce
- Cultural enrichment
- Scientific research
- Financial innovation
- Startup ecosystems
- Professional and knowledge-based services
The visa aims to attract exceptional individuals who can positively contribute to the UAE’s dynamic and diverse society.
🔹 Who Is Eligible to Apply?
As of now, the program is in its pilot phase and is exclusively open to citizens of India and Bangladesh. UAE officials have confirmed that more nationalities may be added after evaluating the success of the initial rollout.
According to estimates, over 5,000 Indian applicants are expected to apply within the next three months, signaling strong interest from one of the UAE’s largest expatriate communities.
🔹 Cost of the Golden Visa
Unlike earlier versions that required real estate investments or business ownership, this visa comes with a fixed, one-time processing fee of AED 100,000 (approximately INR 23.3 lakhs).
There are no recurring investments, property purchases, or business capital requirements—making it significantly more accessible to skilled professionals, artists, scientists, and entrepreneurs who may not have large capital resources but possess substantial talent and vision.
🔹 How the Application Process Works
The application process emphasizes integrity, merit, and social responsibility. Each applicant will undergo a multi-stage evaluation including:
- Background checks (criminal record, legal history)
- Anti-money laundering compliance
- Review of digital/social media behavior
- Assessment of potential contribution to the UAE economy, society, or knowledge sector
The Rayad Group, a UAE-based entity, has been selected as the official consulting and vetting partner. Their role is to:
- Receive applications
- Conduct initial vetting
- Forward eligible profiles to UAE government authorities for final approval
🔹 How and Where to Apply
Applicants do not need to visit Dubai to begin the Golden Visa process. All applications for the nomination-based Golden Visa can be submitted directly through:
✅ Harf Typing and Documents Clearing
An officially authorized service center, Harf offers complete assistance for Indian and Bangladeshi nationals applying for the UAE’s nomination-based Golden Visa. From document collection and eligibility screening to coordinating with UAE authorities, Harf provides a seamless, step-by-step process to ensure your application is professionally managed and compliant.
Services offered by Harf include:
- Initial eligibility consultation
- Document preparation and verification
- Social media and AML compliance screening
- Submission and follow-up with the vetting authority
- End-to-end application tracking
Whether you’re applying from the UAE or abroad, Harf Typing and Documents Clearing serves as your dedicated partner throughout the visa process.
This digital-first and decentralized approach ensures wider accessibility and convenience for applicants across the Indian subcontinent.
🔹 Key Benefits of the Nomination-Based Golden Visa
The new Golden Visa offers a lifetime UAE residency with broad privileges:
✅ No link to real estate or financial investment
✅ Full residency rights to live and work in the UAE
✅ Ability to sponsor family members (spouse, children, parents)
✅ Permission to employ domestic staff
✅ Option to run a business or take up professional employment
✅ Enhanced mobility across GCC and global destinations
✅ Streamlined pathway to integrate into UAE’s business and cultural ecosystem
🔹 Why This Matters
The UAE is already home to more than 3.5 million Indians, making them the largest expatriate group in the country. By introducing a merit-based Golden Visa, the UAE is deepening its engagement with Indian professionals, artists, innovators, and entrepreneurs—creating a gateway for long-term integration without financial barriers.
Experts view this initiative as part of the UAE’s broader strategy to become a global hub for knowledge-based economies, reducing reliance on oil and diversifying human capital.
🔹 In Conclusion
The UAE’s nomination-based Golden Visa is more than just a residency permit—it is an invitation to become a part of a forward-looking, diverse, and globally connected nation. For Indians and Bangladeshis, this is a unique chance to gain long-term stability and a world-class lifestyle in one of the Middle East’s most advanced and tolerant societies—without the pressure of financial investments.
Interested applicants are encouraged to begin the vetting process early, as demand is expected to be high during the initial rollout phase.
