• Source:JND
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The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has denied rumours that the UAE is offering lifetime Golden Visas to certain nationalities. The clarification comes after misleading reports suggested that the visa could be obtained by paying Rs 23 lakh, sparking confusion among Indian expatriates. The ICP emphasised that there is no such lifetime Golden Visa program and no shortcuts to gaining UAE residency. All applications must follow the official, regulated process.

Earlier, several reports claimed that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has launched a new nomination-based Golden Visa scheme targeting high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) in India and Bangladesh. 

From ‘Golden Tickets’ To Bollywood Memes

But what truly caught the internet's attention was not just the price tag, but the massive meme fest that followed the announcement. Social media was flooded with cheeky responses, Bollywood GIFs, and parody videos. One user joked, “Already at the bank with my fixed deposit slip,” while another wrote, “My passport’s getting more action than my Tinder.”

A popular meme depicted iconic film character Munna Bhai holding up a fake Golden Visa card with the caption: “Ab UAE mein bhi permanent admission mil gaya.”

Mixed Sentiments: Opportunity Or Brain Drain?

Not everyone is amused. Some users raised concerns about the wider implications of the scheme. "Is India losing its best minds celebrating golden ticket offers?" questioned one X user. Others claimed that this could lead to a "brain drain," with wealthy professionals and entrepreneurs relocating to the UAE for better tax structures and lifestyle perks.

Critics have also pointed out that the programme might serve the UAE’s economic interests more than anything else. By attracting Indian and Bangladeshi elites, the country could see an influx of investment, consumer spending, and real estate buyers, without necessarily offering anything in return besides residency.

Despite the backlash, the interest remains high.

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