The UAE Golden Visa has become a popular choice among Indian celebrities in the last few years. Bollywood stars, including South Indian actors, singers and sportspersons are preferring long-term residency in the UAE.
Launched in 2019, the Golden Visa allows foreigners to live, work and travel in the UAE for up to 10 years without needing a local sponsor. For Indian celebrities who regularly visit the Gulf for films, concerts, sports events and business work, the visa offers ease, stability and freedom to travel.
Shah Rukh Khan
Shah Rukh Khan was one of the first Indian celebrities to receive the UAE Golden Visa. The actor has a long-standing connection with Dubai and has also served as a global ambassador for Dubai tourism. With frequent visits for film shoots, brand events and public appearances, the Golden Visa helps him stay connected to the region without visa hassles.
Sanjay Dutt calls UAE his second home
Actor Sanjay Dutt received the Golden Visa in 2021. At the time, he was in the UAE for medical treatment. Later, he spoke about the support he received from the country and described the UAE as his “second home”. Since then, the visa has allowed him and his family to spend more time in the region for both work and personal reasons.
Rajinikanth honoured for cultural impact
Thalaivar Rajinikanth was granted the UAE Golden Visa by Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism. Rajinikanth has a huge fan following in the Middle East, where South Indian films perform strongly. The honour was seen as recognition of his long career and wide cultural influence.
Ranveer Singh
Ranveer Singh, celebrated for his high-energy performances and bold fashion choices, was granted the UAE Golden Visa in 2022 in recognition of his impactful film career and influence on modern pop culture.
Priyanka Chopra
Global star Priyanka Chopra is also among the Indian celebrities who have received the UAE Golden Visa, reflecting her strong influence and reach in the world of films.
Kriti Sanon, Varun Dhawan and Mouni Roy join the list
Actress Kriti Sanon received her Golden Visa in early 2024. She shared her happiness on social media and said Dubai holds a special place in her heart.
Actors Varun Dhawan and Mouni Roy have also confirmed receiving their Golden Visas. Both have spoken about the UAE being a welcoming and creative-friendly destination.
Sonu Nigam
Playback singer Sonu Nigam was granted a 10-year Golden Visa in 2021. He has a strong fan base among the Indian community in the UAE and performs there frequently. The visa allows him to live and work in the country more easily.
Veteran singer KS Chithra has also been awarded the Golden Visa.
Sania Mirza and Sonu Sood
Former tennis player Sania Mirza is another Indian personality who holds the UAE Golden Visa. Actor Sonu Sood received the Golden Visa in 2022. Apart from his acting career, his humanitarian work during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially helping migrant workers, was widely praised.
South Indian actors
Several well-known South Indian actors have also received the Golden Visa. These include Mammootty, Mohanlal, Prithviraj Sukumaran and Dulquer Salmaan. Malayalam and Tamil films have a strong audience in the Gulf, and these actors frequently travel to the UAE for film promotions and fan events.
