UAE Golden Visa: Rayad Group Apologizes for False ₹23.3 Lakh Lifetime Residency Claim

The UAE Golden Visa continues to attract global interest, especially from Indian nationals seeking long-term residency in the United Arab Emirates. However, recent controversy has highlighted the importance of verifying information through official sources. Dubai-based consultancy Rayad Group issued a public apology for falsely promoting a so-called ‘lifetime’ Golden Visa offer for ₹23.3 lakh—a claim now confirmed to be entirely unfounded.

Golden Visa UAE: The Controversy Explained

Launched in 2019, the Golden Visa UAE program was designed to provide long-term residency (5 to 10 years, renewable) to investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals. It never included a ‘lifetime residency’ clause. Despite this, Rayad Group’s earlier statements claimed Indian citizens could obtain permanent UAE residency by paying a one-time fee of approximately ₹23.3 lakh (AED 100,000).

In its recent statement to Khaleej Times, Rayad Group clarified that the ₹23.3 lakh fee was a service fee and not a visa fee. The company admitted to providing “incorrect communications” and has since stopped offering any advisory services related to Golden Visas.

UAE Authorities Issue a Firm Rebuttal

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) swiftly debunked the lifetime visa claims, calling them legally baseless. In an official clarification, the ICP stated:

• There is no lifetime Golden Visa in the UAE.
• All applications must be submitted through official UAE portals.
• Misleading promotions can attract legal consequences.

The authority warned the public against sharing personal documents or making payments to unofficial sources and urged all applicants to verify details via government portals.

Expert Opinions: A Scam Targeting Aspiring Migrants

Immigration attorney Prashant Ajmera described the scheme as a scam targeting hopeful Indian migrants. “Entities like these prey on the aspirations of people eager to settle abroad,” he said. Ajmera emphasized that the UAE does not offer citizenship under any immigration program and urged applicants to consult certified legal experts.

The Real Golden Visa UAE: Eligibility and Process

The genuine UAE Golden Visa is a structured and legally backed program. Eligibility is restricted to:

• Investors in public investments ≥ AED 10 million
• Entrepreneurs with ventures worth ≥ AED 500,000
• Specialized talent in science, engineering, and healthcare
• Students with exceptional academic records

Official Costs and Application Process

The cost of a UAE Golden Visa typically ranges from AED 2,800 to AED 3,800, plus documentation and administrative fees. There are no fixed-price packages or lifetime offers. Applications must be submitted through official channels like ICP and GDRFA.

Lessons from the Rayad Group Incident

This episode underscores the need for transparency, regulation, and due diligence in immigration services. Unauthorized entities offering too-good-to-be-true packages often lead applicants into legal and financial traps.

The Golden Visa UAE remains a promising opportunity, but there is no shortcut or ‘lifetime’ offer.

Individuals seeking UAE residency must rely on trusted, verifiable sources and avoid dubious consultancies. Always double-check with official UAE government portals and consult experienced immigration professionals before proceeding.

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You Must Know:

What is the UAE Golden Visa?

A residency program launched in 2019 offering long-term visas (5 or 10 years) for investors, professionals, and top students.

Is there a lifetime UAE Golden Visa?

No. The UAE has confirmed that no lifetime residency visa is available under any of its immigration schemes.

How much does the UAE Golden Visa cost?

It typically costs between AED 2,800 and AED 3,800, excluding documentation and administrative charges.

Who can apply for the Golden Visa?

Eligible applicants include investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, researchers, and high-performing students.

How to apply for the UAE Golden Visa?

Submit applications through official portals such as ICP or GDRFA, not through private consultants.

How to avoid Golden Visa scams?

Verify all offers through UAE government websites and work only with licensed immigration professionals.