‘Rumours’: UAE says not giving lifetime ‘golden visa’ to certain nationalities

The United Arab Emirates has dismissed rumours of offering “golden visas” to Indian citizens and people from other nationalities, rejecting an earlier press release regarding the announcement of the supposed system as false and misleading.

In a new press statement on Wednesday, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) warned people not to subscribe to the “United Arab Emirates’ Golden Visa” scheme.

A press release circulated by the consultancy Rayad Group had claimed that Indian nationals could now apply for a “nomination-based” Golden Visa without the need to invest crores in property or business. According to the release, eligible applicants could obtain lifelong residency, and potentially even citizenship, by paying AED 100,000 (approximately ₹23.3 lakh).

The release said that citizens of India and Bangladesh were chosen to pilot the new scheme, followed by China and other CEPA countries. It also mentioned that visa processing firm VFS Global is a partner in the new route to the UAE.

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What has the UAE govt said?

The ICP issued an official statement on Tuesday, saying, “All UAE Golden Visa applications are managed exclusively through official government channels within the country, and no internal or external advisory body is considered approved.”

“The categories of golden residence, their conditions and controls are determined in accordance with the UAE laws, legislation and official ministerial decisions,” it added.

The body assured that it is monitoring the source of the misleading press release, and while it does not mention the entities involved, it will take legal action against those spreading false information to extort money from unsuspecting applicants.

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The statement advised the public not to engage with “inaccurate rumours and false news with the aim of quick profit,” and emphasised that all official procedures are clearly outlined on its website. It also noted that individuals can call the ICP helpline at 600522222 for further clarification.

What did the scheme claim to offer?

Earlier, reports had emerged that the UAE’s revamped golden visa programme is widening its scope to include a much broader range of skilled professionals. It was welcoming scientists, executives, school teachers, principals, university faculty, and frontline workers, as well as nurses with over 15 years of experience.