In recent weeks, rumors and social media posts have claimed that individuals—particularly Indian professionals—can secure a UAE Golden Visa for a one-time payment of just ₹23 lakh (approximately AED 100,000). These claims have sparked widespread excitement and confusion, especially among those exploring investment opportunities in Dubai real estate.
However, the UAE government has now officially clarified that no such flat-fee “lifetime visa” exists. In this article, we’ll break down what the UAE Golden Visa actually offers, who qualifies, and how much you truly need to invest in a property in Dubai to become eligible.
UAE Clarifies: No Rs 23 Lakh Lifetime Golden Visa
On July 8, 2025, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) denied the launch of any lifetime Golden Visa scheme based on a one-time fixed fee. This directly contradicts misleading promotional materials circulated by private consultancies.
The official stance is clear:
“Golden Visa rules are governed by existing UAE laws and ministerial decisions. No simplified lifetime scheme exists for ₹23 lakh.”
What Is the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa, first introduced in 2019, is a long-term residency program that allows foreign nationals to live, work, and study in the UAE without a local sponsor. These visas are usually valid for 5 or 10 years and are renewable if the eligibility conditions continue to be met.
Golden Visa Benefits:
- Long-term residency (5–10 years)
- Freedom to work, invest, and operate businesses
- Sponsor family members and domestic workers
- Own property in designated freehold zones
- No local sponsor required
Who Qualifies for a UAE Golden Visa?
- Golden Visas are granted to specific categories of individuals, including:
Real estate investors owning property worth at least AED 2 million
- Entrepreneurs and startup founders
- Highly skilled professionals (doctors, engineers, educators, IT experts)
- Outstanding students and academic achievers
- Creative talents and scientific researchers
Note: Applicants must provide documented proof of qualifications, investment, or professional standing. Criteria are strict and reviewed by UAE authorities.
The Rs 23 Lakh Claim: What’s the Truth?
The ₹23 lakh figure went viral after a press release from a firm called Rayad Group, which claimed Indian and Bangladeshi applicants could “fast-track” their Golden Visa applications without business or real estate investment. They cited VFS Global as their processing partner—a claim that was swiftly denied by VFS Global.
According to reliable reports from Financial Express, Economic Times, and IndiaTimes, this ₹23 lakh “fee” may cover:
- Application handling
- Background checks
- Government fees
- However, it does not guarantee approval or bypass official nomination and evaluation channels.
- Understanding the Nomination Route
- Golden Visa applications can go through a nomination process initiated by:
- Government bodies
- Semi-government organizations
- Recognized UAE institutions
To be nominated, applicants must demonstrate significant contributions to their field, meet specific income thresholds, or hold internationally recognized awards.
This route is legitimate, but approval is not guaranteed, and no consultant can bypass these checks.
Want the Golden Visa? Here’s What a 1 BHK Costs in Dubai
If you’re considering applying for a Golden Visa through real estate investment, you must own property worth AED 2 million (approximately ₹4.5 crore INR). That makes understanding Dubai’s housing market essential.
Entry-Level 1 BHK Flats:
- ₹80 lakh – ₹1 crore (AED 350,000–450,000)
- Areas: International City, Dubai South, Al Warsan
Mid-Range Flats:
- ₹1.8 – ₹2.3 crore (AED 800,000–1M)
Areas: Dubai Hills, Dubailand, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)
Premium Zones:
- ₹2 – ₹5 crore (AED 1M–2.2M)
Areas: Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah
Live Near Burj Khalifa?
- Expect to pay ₹3.7 crore+ (AED 1.5M+) for a 1 BHK: This is one of the most luxurious and expensive areas in Dubai
Key Advantages:
- Tangible asset with capital appreciation potential
- No dependency on employer or business performance
- Properties in freehold zones are open to foreigners
- You can rent it out and generate ROI
- You can use it for family relocation under the visa program
Here’s what to look for before applying:
- Always verify the source: Check official ICP or GDRFA websites
- Don’t fall for “guaranteed approval” claims
- Ask for a breakdown of all service fees and government charges
- Demand RERA-certified brokers for any property dealings
- Avoid firms that claim partnerships with VFS Global or UAE authorities without proof
- Dubai Property Market Outlook 2025
Dubai’s real estate market in Q2 2025 has hit record highs:
- AED 184.3 billion in property sales
- Strong demand in off-plan and luxury segments
- Foreign investor interest is at an all-time high
- This underscores the strength of real estate as a secure investment path to the Golden Visa.
Final Thoughts
While the UAE Golden Visa offers an incredible opportunity for long-term residency, professional growth, and family stability, it’s important to avoid shortcuts and misinformation. There is no shortcut to a “lifetime visa” for ₹23 lakh.
If you’re truly planning to invest in Dubai, start by understanding the real cost of buying property and work with licensed professionals to ensure compliance and transparency.
Dubai remains one of the most secure, tax-efficient, and globally connected cities to live and invest in — and the Golden Visa is your gateway, if done right.
Want to Explore Dubai Properties That Qualify for the Golden Visa?
Contact Rose Island Real Estate today for verified, RERA-approved listings starting at AED 2M, perfectly aligned with Golden Visa eligibility.
Let us help you turn your investment into a lifetime opportunity.
