Did you know that in 2024, Indian investors put more than $3 billion into Dubai, making India the #1 country investing in Dubai that year. Yes! If you think Dubai is only known for its magnificent buildings, luxury lifestyle, skyscrapers, and shopping malls, here’s a little update. In 2025, Dubai is also known to be a powerful magnet for investors from all over the world, especially India.
If you are an entrepreneur, a salaried person, or someone looking to diversify their investment portfolio across borders, know how to invest in Dubai from India to let the pool of opportunities open for you. Opportunities in investment span across real estate, tourism, hospitality, trade, and more. The Dubai Investment Guide 2025 below will help you with everything you need to know about how, why, and when to invest in Dubai from India.
In the past few years, Indian investment trends in Dubai have shown a significant increase. Have a look:
If you are wondering if investing in Dubai from India is the right choice, here are 9 compelling reasons why it’s the best investment you will make in 2025:
1. Minimum Tax Liabilities
With no tax liabilities like personal income tax, capital gain tax, and inheritance tax, Dubai is an attractive investment destination for Indian investors aiming at higher ROI. An informed investment decision in Dubai leads to sustainable growth. Partner with experts if you are new and need sound financial advice.
2. Favorable Time Difference
Dubai’s time zone is another attractive reason to draw Indian investors to a bustling city with huge potential. Indian and Dubai’s business hours are almost the same, with only 1.5 hours of time difference. It leads to better communication and coordination, making this less complicated and more effortless.
3. Proximity To India
Location and distance are a major plus if planning to invest in Dubai. From India to Dubai and vice versa, it’s a short flight, making it convenient and quick to reach, as and when required. Therefore, it’s a convenient city to invest in when compared with other cities and countries around the world.
4. Residency and Golden Visa Options
For Indian investors, Dubai offers residency and Golden Visa options, allowing a seamless presence in Dubai to work, grow, and expand. The Golden Visa, in particular, offers multiple benefits like 10 years of residency with the freedom to stay outside the country (for a limited period) without the fear of losing Dubai residency.
5. Currency Freedom
As an Indian investor, you get the benefit of currency freedom. Transfer the money earned to India without any restrictions or major tax liabilities to cut your profits down. Isn’t it a win-win situation?
6. Strong Bilateral Relations Between India and the UAE
Did you know that India alone with responsible for more than $85 billion in trade volume in 2025? Yes. The UAE and India share a strong trade & economic relationship. This strong partnership between the two countries makes Dubai a preferred choice for Indian Investors.
7. Attractive Policies for Business
In the Dubai free zone, investors can claim 100% ownership in their business in multiple sectors. In fact, free zones have an easy setup process, with additional perks like zero customs duty. It helps build a strong base and presence in the UAE with long-term benefits.
8. Beneficial for the Indian Economy
Dubai is the easiest and also a beneficial path for Indians to enter the global market. It strengthens the Indian economy in diverse verticals like encouraging foreign exchange, increasing exports, and strengthening bilateral trade. All this makes Dubai a hotspot for Indians to invest in, as it enjoys a wide spectrum of benefits.
9. Sizeable Indian Expats in the UAE
With a growing population of India in Dubai, a sense of familiarity and trust is developed for Indian investors. It makes it convenient for Indians to build an investment portfolio with a group of like-minded individuals to work and collaborate with.
Below is a simple and step-by-step guide on how to invest in Dubai from India:
Step 1: Market Research
As an investor in Dubai, there’s so much to understand, like the trend, areas, demand, and more. Before entering the Dubai market, understand the market in depth with data. See what potential the market holds, both in the long term and short term. Study the pattern of how the market works to make a financially sound decision.
Step 2: Have a Clear Investment Budget Plan
Begin by determining the amount you are planning to invest. Always ensure you are financially well prepared for your chosen investment. Take into consideration the additional costs as well, including translation fees, service charges, taxes, and others that may apply.
Step 3: Pick the Right Investment Opportunity
Align the investment with your goals. Making the right decision can be a game-changer, and the wrong choice can impact the ROI. Some of the common and trending options are real estate, the stock market, franchising, business setup, crypto, and mutual funds.
Step 4: Pick The Right Jurisdiction
The next important step in the process is to choose the right jurisdiction from the options available, such as the Mainland, Free Zone, and Offshore. The decision should be based on what your investment goals are.
Step 5: Fulfill all Legal and Document Requirements
Have all the documents in place, such as your passport copies, investment proof, bank statements, and others, as and when required. If your investment is significant, consider a Golden Visa option that allows you long-term residency in the UAE. Remember, documentation is a complex part of the process; therefore, consult experts to navigate you through this stage seamlessly.
Step 6: Open a Corporate Bank Account
For foreign investors, there are different options for banks in Dubai.
Choose a bank to make investments and set up an account with documents required, including a Passport, address proof, financial statements, etc.
Please note: As an Indian Investor, you must comply with the RBI’s Liberalised Remittance Scheme. It allows investors to remit up to USD 250,000/year.
Step 7: Register Your Investment
Based on what type of investment you have made in Dubai, register your investment and complete the required licensing process.
Step 8: Get Necessary Visas
As an Indian Investor, you need an investor or a residence visa in Dubai to legally qualify as an investor. There are different options available, like:
Step 9: Understand Tax Compliance & Reporting
Though Dubai offers impressive tax benefits, be aware of any tax liabilities you may have in India as an Indian investor. It can include capital gains tax, which the investor must comply with in India and the UAE. If you are setting up a business in the UAE, you must file the required annual returns with the UAE authorities while ensuring you fulfill all the regulatory requirements.
Attention: Dubai’s investment process can be complicated. Therefore, partner with certified experts in Dubai for the right guidance and support.
Invest in Dubai real estate from India with confidence. Contact Vista Corporate Group.
Are you ready to commence your investment journey in Dubai? Open a bank account in Dubai by following these steps:
1. Find the Right Bank
Explore all the bank options in Dubai and find the right bank that fits your needs and requirements. The options include Emirates NBD, HSBC, Dubai Islamic Bank, etc. Before making the final choice, ensure you are well-informed of the features and perks. For example, some banks may require you to maintain a higher minimum balance, while others don’t. Research and find the right bank.
2. Choose the Right Account Type
From options like savings, personal, or a corporate bank account, pick the right one that aligns with your needs.
Tip: As a non-resident, start with a savings account. This is because such accounts have simpler eligibility.
Understand everything before proceeding with the process.
3. Contact the Bank
Visit the bank’s official website to contact the bank via email or phone to get all the information you need, like documents required, eligibility, remote application, and others. This step is important to ensure everything is in place and order before you finally apply.
4. Prepare all the Documents
Now, prepare all the documents needed, like passport copies, income proof, and others. It needed and instructed, get all the documents notarized, meeting UAE standards. All these preparations make the process quick.
5. Submit Application
The next step is to apply. While some banks allow online submission, you might have to visit the bank personally in case of others. Double-check well in advance to avoid unnecessary inconvenience.
6. Activate Your Account
After you get the final approval, activate your account by depositing the minimum balance required. When it’s done, you will get a debit card & other online banking access. Start managing your finances from anywhere!
As a Dubai investor visa holder, you are eligible for all the benefits the visa has. But, how do you get the visa? Follow the steps below:
1. Submit Your Visa Application
To ensure your visa application has no typing errors, take it to the nearest typing center. Errors could lead to unwanted delays. If you have partners, submit applications for their visas too if they hold a minimum of 25% of the business. At the time of visa application, have all the required documents ready. When your request gets approved by the immigration council, you will receive a confirmation email along with your partner’s visa approval.
2. Complete the Change Status Procedure
Once your visa application receives approval, proceed with the change status process. For that, you need to wait for GDRFA’s consent. GDFRA stands for the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners’ Affairs Dubai. You will be assigned a typing center for the change status process after getting a confirmation email from GDRFA.
Partner with The Vista Corporate Group if you want to complete the process without issues.
3. Complete the Medical Examination
Undergoing a medical examination is an important part of the UAE’s investor visa process. Visit the assigned medical center to get the required tests done. You usually get the result within 2 days. It’s a comfortable and quick process.
4. Get the Emirates ID
After everything has been done, you will get an Emirates ID that is your residency proof in Dubai. It’s mandatory as an expat to have an Emirates ID to undergo business operations and investments of any type, along with all the required licenses. All your legitimate permits are linked to your Emirates ID.
5. Get Your Investor Visa Stamped
Once all the above-mentioned requirements are met, get your investor Visa stamped by the authorised authority. After the stamping, you can legally invest in Dubai and make the most of all opportunities available at your disposal.
There are multiple advantageous options for Indian investors looking to make the most of investment opportunities in Dubai. Have a look at each of them one by one:
1. Real Estate
Dubai’s real estate market is one of the best in terms of luxury and residential properties. From an investment point of view, these properties offer an ROI like nowhere else.
Please note that investors from India have been making a significant contribution to Dubai’s real estate sector for years now. Between 2015 and 2021, Indians owned property worth USD 22 million in the UAE.
You also qualify for the UAE’s golden visa if you invest a minimum in Dubai’s real estate market. You don’t have to invest in one single property to meet this threshold. Investments in multiple properties are also an option, given that you invest the minimum amount required combined. The Golden Visa allows a long-term residency permit in the UAE.
2. Stock Market & Mutual Funds
DFM and Nasdaq Exchanges are two main stock exchanges in Dubai. DFM stands for Dubai Financial Market. You can invest in big companies’ shares through them. Grow your money by investing in Dubai’s stock market. But before you invest, be well informed about everything involved. The rules can be different from those of India.
Another option is investing in mutual funds to diversify your portfolio. It puts your money into different companies across the UAE and the Middle East in different sectors. Mutual funds are a safer option than the stock market if you want to reduce risk with your invested money.
3. Business Setup
Opportunities for entrepreneurs in Dubai extend beyond just the tax benefits. It’s a global hub for investors aiming to set up a company in a business-friendly environment with great growth potential. Dubai’s strategic location is another attractive reason to draw investors from India. Understand the reasons why setting up or expanding a business in Dubai is a profitable opportunity to grab.
Free Zone Business Setup:
Mainland Business Setup:
4. Cryptocurrency
Cryptocurrency is another profitable investment option in Dubai because it’s becoming one of the top places worldwide to invest in crypto. There’s a proper management system to regulate all the crypto activities through a regulatory body known as VARA. VARA stands for Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority.
VARA ensures safe, secure, and legal buying and selling using cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum in Dubai. Under VARA, big and global companies also operate like Binance & Crypto.com. It gives a sense of protection to Indian investors interested in crypto investment.
5. Other Investment Options
Dubai is witnessing an impressive startup system backed by government initiatives. Become a part of Dubai’s startup culture and invest in innovative ventures to tap the market that is less explored.
To strengthen your investment portfolio in Dubai, understand recent trends and government-backed projects for investment:
1. India-UAE CEPA & Growth in Investment
After CEPA in 2022, Indian investments in Dubai witnessed a major surge. Between 2020 and 2024, Indian foreign direct investment in Dubai reached $4.1 billion. IT, business services, food, consumer products, real estate, and beverages were some of the major sectors of growth post CEPA. CEPA stands for Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.
2. Real Estate Market Dominance
Indian investors are at the top of the chart of real estate foreign investors in Dubai. In 2024, Indians alone were responsible for around 22% of total foreign real estate transactions. This is because of tax-free income and high rental yields.
3. Expansion into Technology & Innovation
Dubai’s initiatives and vision to become a global technology hub have drawn investors from India. Tech startups are backed and supported by the Government, both private and public.
Government Backed Projects
1. Tourism & Hospitality Developments
Dubai is strategically enhancing its tourism sector with the launch of the Saih Al Salam Scenic Route and expansion plans for Jebel Ali Beach. These developments open vast opportunities in hospitality, leisure, and other similar services.
2. Initiatives in Smart & Sustainable Cities
Dubai’s strategic investment in smart and sustainable city projects, with a great emphasis on green buildings, eco-friendly transportation, and renewable energy, is an investment opportunity for Indian investors for sustainable growth.
Here’s a list of the top banks in Dubai ideal for Indian investors in 2025.
Bank Name | Key Features | Website |
Emirates NBD | INR remittance, strong NRI support, wide UAE network | emiratesnbd.com |
Mashreq Bank | Quick digital account opening, SME focus, good for startups | mashreq.com |
RAKBANK | Easy account setup for new businesses, remittance to India | rakbank.ae |
Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB) | Strong compliance, good INR exchange rates, and NRI products | adcb.com |
First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) | UAE’s largest bank, great for investors & large businesses | bankfab.com |
Investing in a Dubai investor visa for Indians is simple, straightforward, and safe if some specific eligibility criteria are met. They are:
If you are particularly planning for property investment in Dubai, understand the minimum property investment by Visa type:
Below is a list of all the documents required to invest in Dubai from India for different categories:
As an Indian investor, you may also need some additional documents like your driving license, Aadhar Card, and PAN Card.
If you are wondering what the safest & highest-yielding areas to invest in Dubai for Indians are in 2025 and why, here’s a curated list to consider:
Areas | Why It’s Great to Invest in 2025 |
Dubai Marina | High rental yields, strong expat demand, waterfront living, lifestyle amenities |
Downtown Dubai | Iconic location, luxury appeal, near Burj Khalifa & Dubai Mall, high ROI potential |
Business Bay | Commercial-residential mix, future growth, metro access, popular with young professionals |
Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) | Affordable pricing, high rental demand, family-friendly, steady appreciation |
Palm Jumeirah | Ultra-luxury market, strong short-term rental yields, premium beachfront location |
Dubai Hills Estate | High-end community, close to major roads, golf course access, growing demand |
Meydan | Upcoming developments, close to Downtown, long-term growth potential |
Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT) | Competitive prices, central location, mixed-use buildings, and high occupancy rate |
Arabian Ranches | Preferred by families, gated communities, high-end villas, and good rental stability |
Al Barsha South | Near Dubai Science Park, rising investor interest, budget-friendly |
Dubai South | Expo City location, near Al Maktoum Airport, future economic hub |
Arjan | Affordable off-plan options, near Miracle Garden, growing rental demand |
Mirdif Hills | Freehold area, close to airport, community-centric, steady tenant demand |
Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) | Tech-focused free zone, strong tenant base, affordable apartments |
Town Square Dubai | Affordable villas & apartments, community-focused, high rental potential |
Al Furjan | Metro connectivity, spacious layouts, family appeal, steady appreciation |
International City | Low-cost investment, strong yields in the affordable segment, diverse tenant pool |
The Greens & Views | Mature community, consistent rental income, Emaar-developed, scenic views |
City Walk | High-end urban living, tourist appeal, premium rental rates |
Bluewaters Island | Luxury beachfront, tourist hotspot, short-term rental potential |
Port De La Mer | Waterfront development, European-style layout, high lifestyle value |
Sobha Hartland | Premium off-plan and ready properties, near Downtown, green community |
Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) | Iconic beachfront, strong tourist and expat rental demand, high footfall |
Al Jaddaf | Centrally located, affordable luxury projects, near healthcare and sports facilities |
IMPZ (Dubai Production City) | Affordable investment, steady rental returns, and upcoming developments |
If you are investing in real estate, business setup, stocks, crypto, or others, knowing how to legally and conveniently transfer funds from India to Dubai for investment is an important part of your decision-making. Therefore, here’s everything you need to know:
India’s Liberalised Remittance Scheme allows resident individuals to remit up to USD 250,000 per financial year abroad for investments, education, property purchase, or personal expenses.
Please note that the LRS limit applies if you invest as an Indian resident, which is not the case if you are an NRI or using a foreign company.
Channel | Best For | Pros | Watch Out For |
Indian Banks (HDFC, ICICI, SBI) | Most common route under LRS | Legal, reliable, LRS-compliant | Slower, paperwork-heavy |
Fintech Platforms (Wise, Instarem) | Smaller transfers, speed | Fast, lower fees | Not ideal for large property deals |
Remittance Services (Western Union, UAE Exchange) | Personal use, not investments | Accessible, easy to use | Often not compliant with investments |
Bank-to-Bank (NRIs/Companies) | Large investments | Direct, structured | Requires legal/tax planning |
Do’s
Don’ts
Here are some common mistakes many people commit that you must avoid when investing in Dubai from India:
1. Underestimating the Final Cost
Many people commit the mistake of calculating the final price without taking into consideration small charges that may add up, like service charges, registration fees, maintenance, etc.
2. Not Doing Enough Market Research
Market research is a crucial part of investing in Dubai. There are factors to understand, like the Dubai property market, rental yields, demand, and more, to make the right choice.
3. Not Researching the Developer
Always study the history, track record, and reputation of the developer you are considering buying the property from. Not doing so could mean choosing the wrong developer, which can impact the results you were expecting from your investment.
4. Underestimating the Right Location
In Dubai, different locations can have different returns. The right location is crucial, so it aligns with your investment goal.
5. Ignoring Legal & Regulatory Compliance
In Dubai, every investment you make must be followed by the UAE’s local rules. Ignoring legal & regulatory compliance could mean serious legal issues later.
6. Ignoring The Tax Involved
Though there is no personal income tax in the UAE, your income can be taxable in India. Therefore, always check the tax involved with the investment you make and the money earned from it.
7. High Service Charges
If you invest in a luxury building, high monthly service charges are attached. It can bring your returns down, which might not be sustainable in the long run.
8. Investing Heavily in Off-Plan Properties
Though off-plan properties are a smart move to invest in, there are still risks attached, like delivery delays.
9. Not Taking Expert Advice
Save yourself from committing costly mistakes while making a heavy investment in Dubai by taking expert advice. Consult a certified real estate advisor to make informed decisions. Partner with The Vista Corporate and get in touch with experienced real estate consultants to get the best advice.
10. Not Taking into Consideration the Market Volatility
Though Dubai is a strong and stable economy, the market can still have its share of ups and downs. Especially if you are planning to resell your property, market volatility is a crucial factor to consider.
As the name suggests, DTAA is a treaty between two countries to save the investor from paying taxes on their earned money twice. First, in the country where the money is earned. Secondly, in the country where they live.
Now, if you are an Indian investor investing in Dubai, the India-UAE DTAA saves you from paying taxes twice.
Though investing in Dubai has huge profit potential, a good and smart investor portrays a difference. A smart investor considers everything, from currency risks to tax compliance. If you are planning to invest in Dubai in 2025, the information below is for you:
Tips To Overcome The Currency Risk
Tax Compliance
As an Indian Investor, be vigilant of both India’s and the UAE’s tax rules. This is important than ever before because countries are now sharing financial information more strictly through CRS. CRS stands for the Common Reporting Standard.
In India
In Dubai
Before proceeding with your investment in Dubai, have a look at these expert tips with resources for smart Indian Investors to invest in Dubai:
Use this resource:
Open a business or investment account with a reliable UAE bank like:
Documents Needed:
3. Take Advantage of the Golden Visa
Indian investors who invest in property, startups, or other qualifying assets may be eligible for a 10-year Golden Visa.
Check eligibility at:
Before you invest in anything, make it a point to verify everything. You cannot skip this.
Use these tools:
Research and choose the right bank to send your profits back to India legally and at the best rates.
Use these platforms:
Update Category | Details |
Expanded Eligibility | Content Creators: Eligible through the new Creators HQ platform (for influencers, writers, etc.)Educators: Top-performing private school teachersEnvironmentalists: Eligible for Blue Residency (10-year visa for sustainability contributors) |
Investment Requirements | Investment Fund: AED deposit confirmed by the accredited fund Business Ownership: AED in capital & valid license Tax Contribution: AED annually verified by the Federal Tax Authority |
Major Benefits | 5- or 10-year renewable visaMultiple-entry 6-month visa to complete the residency processNo UAE sponsor requiredStay outside the UAE 6+ months without losing your visaSponsor spouse, children (no age limit), & unlimited domestic helpFamily can stay in the UAE even after the visa holder’s death |
New Smart Platform | Launch of “Salama” – AI-powered platform for faster visa issuance & renewals |
Who Should Apply | Indian investors, entrepreneurs, property buyers, professionals, and creators planning a long-term presence in the UAE |
Where to Apply | GDRFA Portal (Dubai)ICP Portal (UAE)Official UAE Info Site |
Final Thoughts:
For Indian Investors, opportunities in Dubai span across some of the booming sectors in the economy, like real estate, hospitality, stocks, crypto, and business ventures. With India’s strong bilateral ties with Dubai, the city becomes the right destination to put your money in.
Understanding Dubai’s market for successful investments is a prerequisite. Therefore, know how to invest in Dubai from India from the start to the end to put the best foot forward. Get in touch with professionals.
Look around, and Dubai offers numerous benefits for Indian investors. At “The Vista Corp,” we encourage our clients to get deeper into understanding and exploring investment options in Dubai, with all the benefits involved. We take you through to understand the city’s fast market and plan your investment wisely.
Furthermore, we assist in making the entire investment process hassle-free and stress-free. We have a team of experienced consultants dedicated to helping investors from all over the world manage their investments and provide guidance on how to open a business in Dubai from India. Our services comprise PRO services, company formation, real estate assistance, licensing, document systems, etc.
Partner with us and start your investment journey in Dubai with confidence.
FAQs
There are several advantages of investing in Dubai as an Indian:
Open a bank account in Dubai as an Indian investor by following the process below:
NO, there are no restrictions on bringing back the profits from investing in Dubai to India, without local taxes. But, investors from India must comply with RBI regulations under FEMA, including timely reporting & proper documentation when transferring funds back to India. Consult a financial advisor because it can get complicated sometimes.
The money needed to invest in Dubai as an Indian in 2025 depends on different factors. A minimum investment is required for real estate. For a business license. The Dubai Golden Visa requirement includes a minimum investment.
Below is the list of the 10 best investment options in Dubai for Indian investors in 2025:
There are no tax implications when investing in Dubai from India.
No Income Tax
No Property Tax
No Capital Gains Tax
It’s one of the major attractions that draws investors from India, making your deals more profitable than in India.
Here’s a list of some of the high-yielding and best areas in Dubai for real estate investment in 2025 for Indians:
Yes, Indians can invest in Dubai’s real estate and other businesses legally in 2025. Dubai has flexible foreign ownership rules in many designated freehold zones. It allows investors from India to invest and own 100% of property in Dubai. There are also many opportunities open in Dubai’s other sectors, including those facilitated by the DFM. DFM stands for Dubai Financial Market.
To get a UAE golden visa as an Indian Investor, follow the steps below: