India’s affluent are increasingly setting their sights on a new address: the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates have emerged as favored destinations for the nation’s ultra-rich. But what exactly is drawing India’s super-rich to the UAE? Unicorn Global Solutions, a premier consulting firm specializing in business setup, delves into the reasons behind this trend of moving to the UAE

Lucrative Tax Regime
One of the most compelling factors driving India’s wealthy to Moving to the UAE is the country’s lucrative tax regime. Unlike India, which imposes significant income and capital gains taxes, the UAE offers a near-tax-free environment. This translates into substantial financial benefits for individuals and families looking to optimize their wealth management strategies.
Business-Friendly Ecosystem for Moving to the UAE
The UAE presents an exceptionally business-friendly ecosystem. Streamlined business setup processes, free trade zones, and a focus on innovation make it fertile ground for entrepreneurs and established businesses alike. This environment allows them to expand their ventures, explore new markets, and attract global investment. As a result, the UAE has become a hotbed for entrepreneurial activity and corporate growth.
Henley & Partners Report
A report by Henley & Partners, an international investment migration advisory firm, confirms this trend. According to the report, the UAE has become the most preferred country for the ultra-wealthy. Approximately 4,300 millionaires are expected to leave India in 2024, with the majority choosing to relocate to Dubai in the UAE.
“India continues to lose large numbers of millionaires, especially to the UAE. However, in our view, these outflows are not particularly concerning as India continues to produce far more new HNWIs than it loses to emigration. Furthermore, the bulk of the millionaires who leave India tend to retain business interests and second homes in the country, which is a positive sign,” states the report.
Property Investments on the Rise
The UAE is increasingly drawing wealthy Indians Moving to the UAE compared to other popular destinations such as Australia, Singapore, and the US. In the past year, Dubai’s property market raked in 16 billion dirhams (Rs 35,500 crore) from Indian buyers, almost doubling the amount from 2021. Indian buyers accounted for 40% of homebuyers in Dubai, with most hailing from Delhi-NCR, Ahmedabad, Surat, Hyderabad, and Punjab. Another 40% were Indians already residing in the UAE, and the remaining 20% were Indians living in different parts of the world.
Family Offices Abroad
Wealthy Indians are increasingly establishing family offices in cities like Dubai, Singapore, and London. Younger generations, especially those who have studied abroad or recently returned to join family businesses, are keen on establishing family offices in foreign countries. Founders of various startups are also moving their operations abroad. Several factors drive this trend:
- Wealth Protection: They want to protect part of their wealth from potential tax or regulatory issues in India.
- Access to Foreign Markets: Having a family office abroad offers easier access to foreign markets and supports business expansion.
- Diversification: It allows for diversification of investments and business ventures.
Typically, a family office is a privately owned entity that manages investments and wealth for a family with investable assets of approximately $100 million (Rs 820 crore).
The Golden Visa
Beyond the ultra-wealthy, many professionals are now choosing Dubai as their destination. The UAE’s Golden Visa program, expanded in 2022 to include more workers, skilled professionals, scientists, and researchers, has made the country even more appealing to affluent Indians. This program offers a long-term residence visa, allowing foreign talent to live, work, or study in the UAE with exclusive benefits.
Luxury Lifestyle and Safety
The UAE offers a taste of the high life. Dubai, in particular, is synonymous with luxury. From world-class shopping and Michelin-starred restaurants to opulent penthouses and sprawling villas, the UAE caters to those who enjoy a lavish lifestyle. However, the allure goes beyond material pleasures. The UAE boasts exceptional safety and security, which is a major draw for wealthy individuals and families seeking a stable and secure environment to raise their children.
A Boon for the Startup Community
In Dubai, Indians make up over 30% of the startup community, and the city aims to attract even more tech talent from India. To achieve this, Dubai offers 100,000 Golden Visas, permitting entrepreneurs and technology investors to reside in the country for up to 10 years. Additionally, Dubai has established a national small-business program to help startups secure funding, partner with established companies, and market their products internationally.
Conclusion
This confluence of factors – tax benefits, a business-friendly environment, luxury living, security, strategic location, and accessible residency options – paints a compelling picture for India’s super-rich moving to the UAE. The UAE is not just a vacation destination; it’s a new haven offering a combination of lucrative opportunities, a luxurious lifestyle, and a secure future.
How Unicorn Global Solutions Can Help
To Start a business in Dubai from Angola is an exciting and potentially rewarding journey into one of the world’s most vibrant economies. Angolan businesses can prepare for successful overseas expansion by understanding the regulations, selecting the correct business structure, securing capital, and leveraging networking. With its investor-friendly atmosphere and limitless opportunities, Dubai is a land of promise for the ambitious and enterprising.
For expert guidance and support in setting up your business in Dubai, contact Unicorn Global Solutions today! Text us on WhatsApp or call us today.