Latest news with #GDRFA
Time of India
8 hours ago
- Business
- Time of India
UAE Golden Visa vs top EU residency programs (Portugal, Greece, Malta & more): which one works best for you?
For those seeking global mobility, financial security, or a second home, Golden Visa and Citizenship by Investment programs open doors to new opportunities. Whether it's residency in Europe, business expansion in the UAE, or access to visa-free travel worldwide, these programs offer fast tracks to long-term benefits like tax advantages, business opportunities, and even citizenship. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now What is a Golden Visa? A Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program allowing foreign investors to obtain legal residency by making qualifying investments. These programs, closely tracked and ranked by leading firms like Henley & Partners and Nomad Capitalist,appeal to entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals looking for greater mobility, better business climates, or a potential path to citizenship. Most require investments in real estate, government bonds, or funds. Europe's Golden Visas offer access to the Schengen Zone, allowing travel across 27 countries, while the UAE's program offers residency in a fast-growing, tax-friendly global hub. Let's start with the UAE's Golden Visa and then dive into a detailed face-off against Europe's top programs: Portugal, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Malta, and Cyprus. UAE Golden Visa breakdown Investment Requirements: 10-year visa: purchase property worth at least AED 2 million (~$545,000). Partial financing allowed with a minimum 20% down payment. 2-year visa: property purchase of AED 750,000 (approximately $204,000). For joint ownership with spouse, minimum AED 1 million (approximately $272,000). Mortgage buyers must pay 50% upfront for the 2-year visa. Residency Terms & Flexibility: Valid for 10 years, renewable indefinitely. No minimum stay required—residents can live abroad indefinitely without losing status. Freedom to live, work, and study across all seven emirates. Family members included: spouse, unmarried sons under 25, and unmarried daughters of any age. Taxation: No personal income tax, no inheritance tax, no capital gains tax, no property tax. Corporate tax of 9% applies only on profits over AED 375,000 (~$102,000). No global income taxation. Lifestyle & Infrastructure: Safe cities with world-class infrastructure. Direct flights to major hubs worldwide. Diverse expatriate community, with strong cultural and business ties to India and beyond. Popularity & Growth: Launched in 2019. In 2023, 158,000 Golden Visas issued by Dubai's GDRFA, up from 79,617 in 2022 and 47,150 in 2021—indicating rapid growth. Portugal Golden Visa Investment Options (minimum amounts): €250,000 (~$278,000) for arts and cultural heritage restoration. €500,000 (~$555,000) for investment fund units (most popular). €500,000 (~$555,000) for research activities. €500,000 (~$555,000) for business investment (minimum 5 jobs created). Company creation with minimum 10 jobs (variable investment amount). Residency & Citizenship: Residency permit renewable every two years. Minimum physical presence: 7 days per year to maintain residency. Citizenship eligibility after 5 years. Allows travel across Schengen Area visa-free. Family Benefits: Spouse, children under 26, and parents can be included. Taxation: Portugal taxes residents on global income, but non-habitual resident regime offers tax benefits for 10 years. Popularity: Over 33,000 permits issued since 2012. Popular among Chinese, Brazilians, Americans, Turks, and South Africans. UAE vs Portugal: Verdict Factor UAE Golden Visa Portugal Golden Visa Winner Investment Cost ~$545,000 (real estate) From ~$278,000 to $555,000 (varies by option) Portugal (lower minimum option) Residency Stay None required Minimum 7 days/year UAE (more flexible) Citizenship Timeline No direct citizenship path Citizenship in 5 years Portugal Taxation No personal income tax Taxed on global income (with exceptions) UAE Family Inclusion Spouse + unmarried children Spouse + children + parents Portugal Processing Speed As fast as 1 month Varies, generally slower UAE Lifestyle Tax-free, Middle East hub Access to Schengen Europe Depends on preference Overall Winner: Depends on goals. For fast, flexible residency and tax advantages, UAE leads. For a pathway to European citizenship with low stay requirements, Portugal is attractive. Greece Golden Visa Investment Options: €800,000 (~$888,000) minimum real estate in Attica, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, or islands with >3,100 residents. €400,000 (~$444,000) minimum in other regions. €250,000 (~$278,000) minimum for renovation projects. Other options: shares, bonds, deposits (from €350,000 to €800,000). Residency & Citizenship: Permanent residency with no stay requirement. Citizenship after 7 years with 183+ days/year residency. Family Benefits: Spouse, children under 24, and parents included. Taxation: Special flat tax regime for foreign tax residents: €100,000 ($111,000) per year global income tax flat rate; family members pay €20,000 ($22,000) each. Popularity: Nearly 50,000 permits issued since 2014. UAE vs Greece: Verdict Factor UAE Golden Visa Greece Golden Visa Winner Investment Cost ~$545,000 From ~$278,000 to $888,000 depending on location UAE (lower minimum, but variable) Residency Stay None required None required Tie Citizenship Timeline No direct citizenship path 7 years, with stay requirement Greece Taxation No personal income tax Flat tax option for foreigners UAE (simpler) Family Inclusion Spouse + children Spouse + children + parents Greece Processing Speed ~1 month Varies, generally longer UAE Lifestyle Tax-free, global hub Access to EU & Schengen Depends on preference Overall Winner: UAE for tax simplicity and speed; Greece for cheaper investment options and EU benefits, but requires longer stay for citizenship. Hungary Golden Visa (launched 2024) Investment Options: €250,000 (~$278,000) purchase of real estate fund units. €1,000,000 (~$1.11 million) donation to higher education institution. Residency & Citizenship: 10-year validity with no renewal needed. Extendable once for 10 more years. Citizenship after 11 years of continuous residence. Family Benefits: Spouse, children under 25, and parents. Taxation: Income tax at 15%, corporate tax at 9% (lowest in EU). Popularity: Hungary's 2024 Golden Visa attracted 100+ applicants, with 11 approved by September. UAE vs Hungary: Verdict Factor UAE Golden Visa Hungary Golden Visa Winner Investment Cost ~$545,000 From ~$278,000 to $1.11 million UAE (lower entry point) Residency Stay None required Continuous residence for citizenship UAE (flexible), Hungary (citizenship path) Citizenship Timeline No direct citizenship path 11 years Hungary Taxation No personal income tax Flat income tax 15% UAE Family Inclusion Spouse + children Spouse + children + parents Hungary Processing Speed ~1 month Unknown, likely slower UAE Overall Winner: UAE for tax and speed; Hungary for lower taxes than much of Europe and a clear citizenship path. Italy Golden Visa Investment Options: €250,000 (~$278,000) innovative startup. €500,000 (~$555,000) business investment. €1,000,000 (~$1.11 million) philanthropic donation. €2,000,000 (~$2.22 million) government bonds. Residency & Citizenship: No minimum stay required for residency. Citizenship after 10 years with 183+ days/year residency. Family Benefits: Spouses, unmarried children of any age, and parents. Taxation: Special flat tax of €200,000 (~$222,000) per year on foreign income for up to 15 years. UAE vs Italy: Verdict Factor UAE Golden Visa Italy Golden Visa Winner Investment Cost ~$545,000 From ~$278,000 to $2.22 million UAE (lower entry) Residency Stay None required No requirement, but citizenship needs 183 days/year UAE (flexible) Citizenship Timeline No direct citizenship path 10 years Italy Taxation No personal income tax Flat tax for foreigners Depends (UAE simpler, Italy special regime) Family Inclusion Spouse + children Spouse + children + parents Italy Overall Winner: UAE for flexibility and lower minimum; Italy for long-term tax benefits and citizenship. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Malta Permanent Residence Programme Investment Requirements: Property rental minimum €14,000 ($15,500/year) or purchase minimum €375,000 ($416,000). Fixed administrative fee: €50,000 (~$55,000). Donation: €2,000 (~$2,200). Contribution fee: €30,000 $33,000 (purchase) or €60,000 (rental). Total cost from approximately €182,000 $202,000 for the rental option to €457,000. for purchase. Residency & Citizenship: Lifetime residency rights. Citizenship possible but through a separate process (naturalization). Family Benefits: Includes spouses, children under 29, parents, and grandparents. Popularity: Approved 7,567 applications (2015–2021); 1,500 new in 2024, mainly from China, Vietnam, Russia, South Africa, and Turkey. UAE vs Malta: Verdict Factor UAE Golden Visa Malta Permanent Residence Winner Investment Cost ~$545,000 (real estate) ~$202,000 (rent) to $507,000 (purchase) Malta (rental option cheaper) Residency Stay None required Must maintain property ownership UAE Taxation No personal income tax Taxed on global income UAE Family Inclusion Spouse + children Extended family included Malta Citizenship Timeline No direct citizenship path Separate process UAE Overall Winner: UAE for simplicity and tax; Malta for wider family inclusion and European access. Cyprus Permanent Residence Investment Options: Minimum €300,000 (~$333,000) in residential/commercial real estate, shares, or funds. Residency & Citizenship: Lifelong validity with no renewal required. Citizenship after 8 years continuous residence. Family Benefits: Spouse and children under 25 included. Taxation: No tax on global income or inheritance. Corporate tax rate 12.5%. UAE vs Cyprus: Verdict Factor UAE Golden Visa Cyprus Permanent Residence Winner Investment Cost ~$545,000 ~$333,000 Cyprus Residency Stay None required Not specified (citizenship requires 8 years) UAE (more flexible) Citizenship Timeline No direct citizenship path 8 years Cyprus Taxation No personal income tax No global income tax Tie Family Inclusion Spouse + children Spouse + children Tie Overall Winner: Cyprus for lower minimum and citizenship timeline; UAE for flexibility and tax simplicity. Bottomline: Which Golden Visa Fits your goals? Choose UAE Golden Visa if you want: Flexible residency with no minimum stay. Fast processing and long 10-year visa. No personal income tax or global income taxation. A global business hub with easy family inclusion. Choose European Golden Visas if you want: Access to Schengen Zone and Europe's lifestyle. A path to European citizenship (Portugal, Greece, Cyprus, Italy). Lower minimum investments in some countries (Portugal, Hungary, Cyprus). Special tax regimes for foreigners (Italy, Greece). Each program has unique strengths. The UAE stands out for tax benefits and residency flexibility, while Europe offers citizenship and visa-free travel across multiple countries. Your choice depends on investment capacity, desired lifestyle, tax considerations, and citizenship ambitions.
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
GDRFA Dubai delegation explores Dubai Health's integrated, human-centered model
Dr. Amer Sharif: Our partnership with GDRFA reflects a shared commitment to enhancing the quality of services delivered to the community Dubai, United Arab Emirates: The General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai visited Dubai Health to learn more about its leading approach to advancing human health and explore opportunities for partnership. The delegation, led by His Excellency Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai, included senior representatives: Brigadier Abdulsamad Hussain Suleiman Al Blooshi, Assistant Director General for the Sector of Leadership and Future Affairs, Colonel Expert / Khaled Ahmed Bin Madiah, Assistant Director General for the Digital Services Affairs Sector; Lieutenant Colonel Faisal bin Balila, Deputy Assistant Director General for Institutional Support Affairs; Lieutenant Colonel Salem Mohammed bin Ali, Deputy Assistant Director General for Leadership and Future Affairs; Maj. Mariam Taib Al Budwaawi, Director of Institutional Leadership; and Najla Al-Dookhi, Director of Marketing and Government Communication. The delegation was welcomed by Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO, Dubai Health; Dr. Hanan Al Suwaidi, Chief Business Officer, Dubai Health; Dr. Mohamed Al Awadhi, Executive Director of the Dubai Health Women and Children's Campus; and Khalifa Baqer, Chief Operations Officer, Dubai Health. Also in attendance was His Excellency Dr. Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, Director General of the Dubai Health Authority. The visit included a tour of the Dubai Health Operations Center, where His Excellency and the accompanying delegation were briefed on the Patient Journey Redesign Program that follows the patient's experience across all touchpoints. The delegation also reviewed key upcoming Dubai Health initiatives and plans to reinforce Dubai's position as a global healthcare destination. His Excellency Lt. Gen. Mohammed Al Marri commented: 'Our visit to Dubai Health offered a valuable opportunity to explore the model behind the first fully integrated academic health system in Dubai. We also explored ways to enhance collaboration to ensure the delivery of exceptional, human-centered services that reflect the highest standards of quality and excellence. He commended Dubai Health's tangible progress in advancing the patient experience, highlighting the seamless, compassionate care provided throughout the patient's journey. 'This level of integration reflects a strong commitment to service excellence and to delivering truly patient-first care, in line with Dubai's vision to set benchmarks across all sectors,' he added. 'At GDRFA Dubai, we remain committed to working closely with our partners to drive progress and help shape a more advanced and sustainable future.' A shared vision for quality of life Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO Dubai Health, expressed his appreciation for the visit of His Excellency Lt. Gen. Mohammed Al Marri and the GDRFA Dubai delegation. 'This visit reflects our shared commitment to strengthening collaboration between government entities to enhance service quality for both citizens and residents of Dubai.' He added: 'We believe that partnership and alignment across government sectors form a vital foundation for realizing Dubai's forward-looking vision and improving the quality of life for our community. We thank GDRFA Dubai for their continued support and look forward to building on our collaboration to further strengthen the healthcare ecosystem and reinforce Dubai's position as a global benchmark for service excellence.'
India Today
4 days ago
- Business
- India Today
UAE Golden Visa 2025: Eligibility, benefits and how Indians can apply
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers a long-term residency program known as the Golden Visa, designed to attract foreign talent and investment by allowing individuals to live, work, or conduct business in the UAE without the need for a local sponsor. This visa is valid for ten years and is renewable, providing recipients with stability and numerous benefits, including the ability to sponsor family members and operate businesses CRITERIAThe Golden Visa is available to a diverse group of individuals, including:Investors: Those who invest a minimum of AED 2 million in real Individuals owning economic projects of a technical or future-oriented professionals: Doctors, engineers, scientists, and other professionals with specialized students and graduates: High-achieving students with exceptional academic earners: Individuals earning AED 30,000 or more per individuals: Artists, authors, and content creators meeting specific PROCESSFor property investors, the application involves: 1. Property investment: Invest in real estate valued at AED 2 million or more.2. Title deed acquisition: Register the property and obtain a title deed from the relevant land authority.3. Application submission: Apply through the Land Department, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), or smart platforms like the Dubai REST Medical fitness test and Emirates ID registration: Complete a medical fitness test and register for an Emirates successful completion of these steps, the 10-year Golden Visa is issued and can be renewed provided eligibility criteria continue to be Local Sponsor Required: Freedom to live and work in the UAE Sponsorship: Ability to sponsor spouses, children, and domestic Ownership: Full ownership of businesses in the Stability: Maintain residency status even during extended periods FOR INDIAN NATIONALSIndian citizens are eligible to apply for the UAE Golden Visa, making it a significant opportunity for Indian professionals and businesspeople seeking long-term residence and business prospects in the UAE Golden Visa presents a valuable opportunity for qualified individuals to establish a long-term presence in the UAE, benefiting from the country's dynamic economy and strategic location.
Hindustan Times
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Indian-origin Dubai millionaire recreates 1980s Kerala lifestyle with vintage home and cars
Dubai-based millionaire Abdulla Nooruddin is turning heads for his unique way of living that blends nostalgia with luxury. Originally from Kerala, Nooruddin has recreated a slice of 1980s Kerala right in the heart of Dubai. Every morning, he begins his day by picking fresh fruits and vegetables from his backyard garden, a routine that mirrors life in his native Kerala decades ago. This throwback lifestyle continues with his home's design, which is filled with vintage items, from a traditional armchair to a 1970s TV aerial mounted on his roof a manual typewriter, an analogue clock, a table lamp, a landline phone and more. Also read: 'Nice house': Trump reacts as Qatar Emir gives US President a tour of jaw-dropping palace The interiors and exteriors of the house are carefully curated to replicate the classic architecture and feel of old Kerala homes, making it a living museum of sorts. But the retro vibes don't end there. Abdulla also boasts an enviable collection of vintage cars, one of which even featured in the popular series The Vampire Diaries. He took to Instagram to share a video of his daily routine, offering a glimpse of nostalgic '80s aesthetics. The video amassed more than 2 million views. A post shared by Abdulla Nooruddin (@abdulla_nooruddin) Many took to the comments section to react. A user wrote, 'This should what success look like.' Also read: Billionaire Lakshmi Mittal said to buy 'Beverly Hills of Dubai' home Another added, 'that's an amazing home garden !!!' Many flooded the comments with heart emojis, expressing their love and admiration for the nostalgic 80s aesthetic. Abdulla Nooruddin received a 10-year residency visa in the UAE in 2019 from the officials of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai, reported the Gulf News. Also read: Internet reacts to CBSE topper's 20-hour of studying claim: '10th mein itni padhai?'
Zawya
12-05-2025
- Health
- Zawya
Dubai Health celebrates International Nurses Day and honors DAISY Award Winners in Ceremony attended by Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri
Over 1,500 nurses from Dubai Health hospitals and centers attended the event Dubai, UAE – Dubai Health marked International Nurses Day by hosting a ceremony honoring its 4,400-strong nursing team, including 12 recipients of the international DAISY Award for clinical excellence and compassionate care. The event, held at the Grand Hyatt Dubai, welcomed more than 1,500 nurses from across Dubai Health's hospitals and centers. The ceremony was attended by His Excellency Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai, who joined Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health; Professor Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, Chief Academic Officer of Dubai Health and Provost of Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU); and Dr. Tarek Fathey, Chief Clinical Officer at Dubai Health. The event also featured a special recognition to GDRFA Dubai for its achievement in receiving the Hamdan bin Mohammed Smart Government Flag, attended by Major General Talal Al Shanqeeti, Assistant Director-General for the Airports Sector. Dubai Health commended Lieutenant General Mohammed Al Marri and the GDRFA Dubai team for their people-first approach and alignment with the UAE leadership's vision. Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health, said: 'We are grateful for the incredible contributions of our nurses, and to celebrate the DAISY Award winners who exemplify both clinical and human excellence. At Dubai Health, we remain committed to supporting and empowering our nursing teams, who are essential in delivering our 'Patient First' approach.' He added: 'I extend my sincere thanks to Lieutenant General Mohammed Al Marri for joining us in recognizing our nursing community and congratulate him and the GDRFA Dubai team on receiving the Hamdan bin Mohammed Smart Government Flag. Our shared focus on serving people continues to drive collective progress toward excellence and improved quality of life in Dubai.' Dr. Sharif also welcomed the 16 graduate nurses who have transitioned to clinical practice at Dubai Health, reinforcing the organization's ongoing investment in healthcare talent. He concluded: 'We are also proud of the recent naming of the Hind Bint Maktoum College of Nursing and Midwifery at MBRU by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This recognition inspires us to continue strengthening national capacity and elevating this vital profession.' Dr. Tarek Fathy, Chief Clinical Officer at Dubai Health, said: 'Our nursing team continues to grow in strength and diversity, with more than 4,400 nurses now serving across our facilities. This year, 16 newly graduated Emirati nurses will begin their careers across Dubai Health's hospitals and centers, joining 120 Emiratis across the system. The number of Emirati nurses has increased by 200% since 2022, reflecting our commitment to developing national talent while delivering high-quality patient care.' He noted that more than 1,500 Dubai Health nurses were nominated for the DAISY Award this year, which honors nurses who demonstrate exceptional clinical expertise and a commitment to patient-centered care. In addition, 26 nursing educators were recognized for their role in advancing clinical excellence and supporting workforce development
