
Why Indian Business & Sports Icons are Moving to Dubai?
Dubai, the cosmopolitan city in the United Arab Emirates, has become a magnet for Indian business leaders and sports stars. The city’s allure is not hard to understand, given its zero-income tax policy, luxurious living, and business-friendly environment. In fact, over 4,300 millionaires left India in 2024 alone, with Dubai emerging as the preferred haven for wealth, safety, and global opportunities.
The UAE’s Golden Visa program, launched in 2019, has been a significant draw for Indian high-net-worth individuals (HNIs). This program offers 10-year residency visas to eligible applicants, allowing them to live and work in the UAE without the need for a local sponsor. The visa also provides a pathway to citizenship, making it an attractive option for those seeking a secure and stable future for their families.
Business-friendly policies have also played a crucial role in Dubai’s appeal. The city has established itself as a major hub for entrepreneurship and innovation, with a wide range of industries, including finance, real estate, logistics, and technology, thriving in the region. The UAE government’s efforts to promote entrepreneurship have been well-received, with initiatives such as the Dubai Future District and the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry providing valuable support to startups and small businesses.
Real estate has also been a significant factor in Dubai’s attractiveness. The city has seen a significant boom in luxury properties, with high-end residential complexes and commercial towers springing up across the city. The Dubai Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) has implemented various measures to ensure transparency and efficiency in the market, making it an attractive option for investors.
Security is another critical factor that has contributed to Dubai’s popularity. The city has a reputation for being one of the safest in the world, with low crime rates and a strong sense of community. This has made it an attractive option for families and individuals seeking a secure and stable environment in which to live and work.
The Indian business community has been particularly drawn to Dubai’s entrepreneurial spirit and business-friendly environment. Many Indian entrepreneurs have set up shop in Dubai, taking advantage of the city’s strategic location and access to a large and growing market. The Indian government has also been actively promoting trade and investment between India and the UAE, with bilateral trade reaching $60 billion in 2022.
Sports stars have also been flocking to Dubai, attracted by the city’s luxurious lifestyle and world-class infrastructure. Many Indian cricketers, in particular, have made Dubai their home, drawn by the city’s warm climate and high-quality sports facilities. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has also recognized Dubai as one of the top cricket-playing nations, with the city hosting several major international matches.
One of the most notable examples of an Indian business leader making the move to Dubai is Anand Mahindra, chairman of the Mahindra Group. Mahindra, who has been a vocal advocate for the UAE’s business-friendly policies, has been quoted as saying, “Dubai is a city that truly understands the importance of entrepreneurship and innovation. The UAE’s leadership has created a business environment that is second to none, and I am proud to be a part of it.”
Another example is Sachin Tendulkar, the legendary Indian cricketer, who has made Dubai his home. Tendulkar, who has been a brand ambassador for several companies in the region, has been quoted as saying, “Dubai is a city that has something for everyone. The people, the culture, the food – everything is so welcoming and warm. I am thrilled to be living here and exploring all that it has to offer.”
In conclusion, Dubai’s appeal to Indian business leaders and sports stars is undeniable. The city’s zero-income tax policy, luxurious living, and business-friendly environment have made it an attractive option for those seeking a secure and stable future. The UAE’s Golden Visa program, real estate boom, and security have all contributed to Dubai’s popularity, making it a top choice for wealth, safety, and global opportunities.
As the Indian economy continues to grow and evolve, it is likely that more and more business leaders and sports stars will make the move to Dubai. The city’s ability to attract and retain top talent will be crucial in driving its continued growth and success, making it an exciting time to be a part of the Dubai story.
Source: https://ascendants.in/business-stories/why-indian-business-leaders-sports-stars-moving-to-dubai/