Indians flocking to the UAE, especially Dubai, has been a decade-old trend. But, this migration isn’t anymore about just about seeking better pastures. Rather, a general trend has evolved wherein Indian millionaires of high-net-worth individuals (HNWI), are opting to buy residences in the Emirate.
As per a study by the Dubai Sotheby’s International Realty, Indian HNWIs were the third biggest buyers of luxury homes in the Emirate during the first half of 2025, followed only by the UK and US citizens. Another study by Knight Frank, a property consultant, hints that Indian buyers spent close to USD 44.6 million in the first few months of 2025.
Not just Indian millionaires, even property developers are now diversifying to major UAE cities, especially Dubai, thanks to clear regulations, high demand from global customers and disciplined banking systems, low default rates, and access to HNIs.
So, what draws Indians to the UAE:
1) Golden Visa programme: The expansion of the Golden Visa programme in 2022, wherein it was made available to more talents, including healthcare pros, educators, digital creators, e-sports pros, gave UAE realty a major push as it lowered property investment thresholds and allowed longer family stays. In 2022, the UAE introduced a nomination-based Golden Visa scheme that allows eligible Indian nationals to secure lifetime residency without the need to invest in property or business. More benefits came in 2025. The means Indians can purchase an AED 2 million (₹4.8 crore) property for a renewable five- or ten-year residency permit.
2) Lifestyle and prestige: Owning a property in the Emirates comes with a certain set of aspirational lifestyles. Dubai is one of the safest countries in the world, and there is a certain accountability to the authorities. With the government giving focus on the higher education sector, world-class education is within reach. It is also strategically placed, with just four hours of travel to India, and even closer to Europe, which makes it an economic powerhouse.
3) Tax regime: The biggest allure of the UAE is its tax regime. It was one of the first places with no annual property tax, making it one of the world’s most investor-friendly real estate markets. Though there is a 5 per cent Value Added Tax on goods and services, the country charges no income tax on individuals in the city, irrespective of a UAE citizens or foreign residents.
4) Attractive ROI and rental yields: Thanks to its booming economy, the UAE ensure profitable returns to investors, including in property. Its robust infrastructure, good governance and strategic location will ensure that there are abundant opportunities for trade and commerce to flourish through its commercial ports and airports.
There is also a high rental yield due to the high demand and inadequate supply of housing units in the country. The booming employment market means that the city witnesses a great migration rate from people across the globe, and since buying properties is not feasible for them, they prefer rental options.
5) Financial options: The country’s financial institutions serve as a backbone for supporting its investment opportunities, offering mortgage options, even to those who earn salaries of Dh15,000 and Dh20,000 a month. The banks have been fuelling the property demand in the country by offering mortgages below 4%.
