The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has categorically denied widespread rumours suggesting that the United Arab Emirates is offering lifetime Golden Visas to certain nationalities. The clarification came after several local and international media outlets, as well as consultancy firms, circulated misleading information about a so-called nomination-based Golden Visa programme.
In an official statement, the ICP affirmed that the UAE’s Golden Visa regulations are governed strictly by laws, ministerial decisions, and established eligibility criteria. It emphasised that all applications must be submitted exclusively through authorised government channels, and that no internal or external commercial or consultancy entities are recognised as authorised intermediaries in the application process.
The clarification followed reports from a consultancy firm based outside the UAE, which claimed to offer lifetime Golden Visas to all categories through simplified procedures. The ICP warned that such claims are false, lack legal basis, and have been made without any coordination with UAE authorities. It further cautioned that legal action will be taken against individuals or entities spreading misinformation and attempting to exploit the hopes of those aspiring to live in the UAE by unlawfully collecting money under false pretences.
As reported by Khaleej Times, Rayad Group, a Dubai-based company at the centre of the controversy, has issued an apology and taken full responsibility for the confusion caused. In a statement sent to the publication, the group clarified that the so-called initiative was part of an exploratory collaboration with licensed immigration consultants to assess advisory support for eligible Golden Visa applicants. Rayad Group acknowledged that references to a “lifetime visa” and a fixed AED 100,000 fee were miscommunicated and not aligned with official UAE immigration frameworks.
“We concur with the statement issued by the ICP, which affirms that all Golden Visa applications must be processed through official, government-approved channels,” Rayad Group stated. The company also noted that certain public remarks by its Managing Director were “misplaced” and contributed to the misinterpretation of their role and services.
To prevent further confusion, the group announced the discontinuation of all private advisory services related to Golden Visas. It reiterated that it does not offer, support, or participate in any guaranteed visa, fixed-price residency programme, or so-called lifetime UAE visa product.
The ICP has urged all prospective residents, investors, and professionals to verify immigration-related information only through official government platforms, including the ICP website and the 24/7 call centre (600522222).
