Renewables, fintech, and healthcare among top growth avenues as reforms open new entry points for overseas investors
Dubai: As India’s economic growth accelerates across key industries, UAE-based non-resident Indians (NRIs) are discovering diverse and more accessible investment opportunities back home. A mix of regulatory reforms, strong sectoral expansion, and digital platforms has opened new avenues for NRIs to build sustainable, long-term wealth, reported gulfnews.com.
“The most scalable entry points for UAE-based NRIs in India today are renewables, fintech, e-commerce, and healthcare,” said Sunny Mohnani, Business Development Director at Traze. “Each of these sectors offers full FDI access under the automatic route, low entry barriers through LRS and NRE channels, and seamless digital onboarding.”
Renewables lead the charge
The renewable energy sector remains one of the strongest long-term growth stories. Investments in green bonds and equities such as Adani Green are gaining momentum, supported by government incentives and a projected 8.7% CAGR — expected to push the market to $46.7 billion by 2032. With India pursuing ambitious clean energy targets, NRIs now have multiple regulated instruments to participate in this transformation.
Fintech and e-commerce drive digital expansion
India’s fintech industry, valued at $145 billion, boasts an 87% adoption rate — one of the highest globally. “Fintech mutual funds and companies like Paytm give NRIs access to one of the world’s most vibrant digital finance ecosystems,” Mohnani said.
Meanwhile, the e-commerce and FMCG sectors continue expanding at 11% annually, with ETFs linked to major players such as Flipkart offering diversified exposure to India’s growing consumption economy.
From renewable energy to fintech and healthcare, India’s growth story is creating a fertile ground for UAE-based investors seeking high returns and stability
Healthcare and pharmaceuticals stay resilient
Healthcare and pharma continue to attract long-term capital due to their global demand and solid fundamentals. Firms such as Sun Pharma present stable entry points, with the sector projected to reach $88.86 billion by 2032, growing at 5.92% CAGR.
Reforms and incentives boost investor confidence
India’s regulatory and tax reforms have created a friendlier environment for NRIs. “Eased SEBI and FPI timelines, higher investment caps, and incentives like production-linked schemes have had a positive impact,” Mohnani noted.
Real estate remains a top pick for NRIs, supported by GST cuts, ECB access, and a projected $1 trillion market by 2030. Currently, NRIs contribute 15–25% of real estate transactions.
Emerging high-growth sectors
Undercapitalised areas such as semiconductors, defence manufacturing, and global capability centres are now attracting NRI interest. India’s semiconductor industry is expected to grow from $38 billion to $109 billion by 2030, driven by 100% FDI approval and 50% government subsidies. Similarly, aerospace and defence exports are nearing $500 million, backed by PLI incentives and global partnerships.
Managing risks and returns
Despite strong momentum, risks such as currency fluctuations, policy delays, and geopolitical volatility remain. The rupee’s 1.4% decline in May 2025 underscores the need for hedging strategies like FCNR deposits.
Mohnani recommends a 60-40 portfolio split between growth and stable assets, balancing exposure through NRE and NRO channels. For real estate, he suggests REITs offering 7–9% yields for passive investors and direct ownership for 8–12% returns.
With transparent reforms, expanding digital access, and India’s economic resilience, UAE-based NRIs are well-positioned to benefit from India’s next phase of growth — provided they stay diversified, patient, and strategic.
