Dubai firm apologises for lifetime visa confusion
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Authorities warn against misinformation; Rayad Group retracts claims of lifetime UAE residency for fixed fees
The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has denied reports suggesting that lifetime Golden Visas could be obtained by certain nationalities under simplified conditions through external firms. The authority clarified that such claims hold no legal validity and reiterated that Golden Visa applications are processed strictly through official government channels, reported timesofindia.indiatimes.com.
Khaleej Times reported that the Dubai-based company apologised after its alleged promotion of a “nomination-based Golden Visa initiative” went viral, including claims of a fixed AED 100,000 fee and lifetime residency option. The ICP emphasised that no external consultancy has the power to offer such services and warned of legal consequences for those spreading misinformation to profit from individuals seeking UAE residency.
Rayad Group admitted its statements about lifetime visas and fixed fees were misleading and caused public confusion
The controversy stemmed from a PTI report on July 6, which claimed India and Bangladesh were selected for a pilot phase of the supposed initiative. However, the ICP dismissed this as baseless and reaffirmed that visa categories remain governed by established laws and regulations.
Following the backlash, Rayad Group discontinued its Golden Visa advisory services, admitting its Managing Director’s remarks were incorrect. The firm clarified that no guaranteed visa, lifetime residency, or fixed-price programme exists outside official UAE government processes.
The ICP urged residents and prospective applicants to verify all visa-related information directly through official platforms, including its website or call centre at 600522222.
