8 reasons why Indians are choosing the UAE to be their second home

The world's largest overseas diaspora, Indians are everywhere, except maybe for Tuvalu or Vatican City. But, nowhere has Indians left an indelible footprint than in the UAE aka 'The Gulf'.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs of India, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is home to the largest number of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) at 3,554,274. 

But what makes the UAE a home away from home for Indians? Here are some reasons why the UAE remains a sought-after haven for millions of Indians to settle down. 

1.Job market

Once dependent just on oil, the UAE has diversified into technology, healthcare, real estate, tourism and even IT which makes it a land of opportunities for professionals, skilled workers, and unskilled workers. With attractive salaries, tax incentives, and a pleasing work environment, the country has become an appealing target for Indian job seekers. 

2. Business-friendly ecosystem

The UAE has long been a preferred choice for entrepreneurs, offering free zones that allow businesses 100% foreign ownership without needing a local partner. These zones provide several advantages, such as tax exemptions on imports and exports, no personal or corporate taxes, and simplified licensing processes. There is minimal bureaucracy and efficient online registration systems. The government actively supports foreign investors with incentives like long-term visas and a stable economic environment.

3) Financial benefits

The UAE government provides several financial benefits to Indian citizens residing in the country, such as tax-free income and low corporate tax: The UAE has a competitive corporate tax rate of 0% for taxable income up to AED 375,000 and 9% for taxable income up to AED 375,000, which is considered one of the lowest in the world.

Besides the country also offers a double tax agreement, which ensures that NRIs don’t face the burden of paying taxes twice. The country also offers opportunities to invest in different growing sectors of the economy, such as real estate, et al.

4. Visa benefits

The UAE has introduced numerous visa schemes to make it easier for Indians to reside, work, and invest, including the UAE Golden Visa, Dubai Visa on Arrival, Dubai Tourist Visa, and two-year Employment Visa.

5. Infrastructure

The UAE has a strong infrastructure that includes a modern highway network that connects all of the Emirates, extensive metro systems, international airports, seaports, six national carriers that connect to over 200 cities worldwide, a national railway called Etihad Rail, renewable energy projects, and so on.

6. Healthcare system

The UAE’s healthcare system is considered one of the best in the world, offering advanced facilities and excellent hospitals, both private and public, known for delivering extraordinary care. The country has trained medical professionals and pioneering technologies, namely robotic surgeries, telemedicine, and wearable healthcare devices.

7) Education

The UAE offers world-class education, with countless schools offering Indian curricula such as the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE), alongside international curricula. The country also houses a variety of universities and around 60 international university campuses and colleges, offering a wide range of courses and strong placement opportunities.

8) Safety

The UAE is widely viewed as one of the safest countries, enjoying a low crime rate and highly vigilant law enforcement. This provides a secure environment not only for its citizens but also for the various nationalities residing within its borders.