A Dubai-based private company, Rayad Group, has issued a formal apology and taken “full responsibility” for misleading communications regarding a so-called “lifetime UAE Golden Visa.” The clarification comes following a strongly worded statement from the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP), which categorically denied the existence of any such visa arrangement.
Rayad Group, at the center of the controversy, had been reportedly involved in offering a fixed-price, nomination-based Golden Visa programme, suggesting lifetime residency in the UAE for a fee of AED 100,000. In a statement shared with the media, the group acknowledged the confusion and announced the complete discontinuation of its private advisory services related to the Golden Visa scheme.
Public Apology and Full Accountability
“We acknowledge the recent media coverage and public discussions regarding a purported nomination-based UAE Golden Visa initiative, including references to a fixed Dh100,000 fee and a so-called ‘lifetime visa’ arrangement,” Rayad Group said in its official statement. “We apologise unreservedly for the public confusion caused by recent reports and commentary. We take full responsibility for ensuring future communications are clear, accurate, and consistent with the UAE’s stringent regulatory frameworks.”
The group clarified that the initiative was part of an exploratory collaboration with licensed immigration service providers. Their objective, according to the company, was to assess the feasibility of providing advisory support to Golden Visa applicants who align with the UAE’s strategic priorities.
Misplaced Statements and Role Clarification
Adding to the confusion were public remarks made by Rayad Group’s Managing Director. The company admitted these comments were “misplaced” and contributed to the misunderstanding surrounding the company’s actual role in the visa process.
“These statements did not accurately reflect our intent, our scope of services, or the limitations of our authority in relation to the UAE Golden Visa programme,” the group added. “To reiterate with full clarity: no guaranteed visa, fixed-price programme, or lifetime UAE residency product currently exists, and the Rayad Group does not offer, support, participate, or endorse any such arrangement.”
ICP Issues Strong Denial
The controversy gained traction after the ICP issued a public statement on July 8, explicitly denying the existence of a “lifetime Golden Visa.” The authority called out unverified media reports and press releases circulating both locally and internationally, accusing them of spreading false information about guaranteed visa arrangements.
“All UAE Golden Visa applications are managed exclusively through official government channels,” said the ICP. “No internal or external advisory body is considered an approved party in the application process.”
The ICP further advised residents and potential applicants to only refer to official sources, such as the ICP website or app, and warned that legal action would be taken against entities spreading misleading or exploitative information.
“The categories of golden residence, their conditions and controls are determined in accordance with the UAE laws, legislation and official ministerial decisions,” the statement said. “Those wishing to know the requirements can obtain them through the ICP website or smart application.”
VFS ETM Clarifies Its Position
Meanwhile, VFS ETM Services-FZCO, a business unit under the global VFS brand, also issued a clarification distancing itself from the controversy. According to their statement, VFS ETM had entered a non-exclusive referral agreement with Rayad Group Management LLE FZ. Their role, they insisted, was strictly limited to receiving inquiries and passing them along.
“Our role was strictly limited to informing interested individuals about the services offered by the Rayad Group,” the company explained. “We continue to comply fully with all the applicable laws and regulations in the UAE.”
End of Advisory Services
As a result of the fallout, Rayad Group has officially announced the termination of its Golden Visa advisory services.
“Due to the confusion caused, the Rayad Group is discontinuing private advisory services for Golden Visas,” the company stated, signaling a step back from any further involvement in immigration-related offerings.
This decision is being viewed as a necessary move to prevent further misunderstanding among residents, expatriates, and prospective Golden Visa applicants.
Public Reaction and Concerns
The public reaction to the controversy has been swift. Many residents voiced frustration over how easily unverified information had spread online, leading some to believe they could obtain lifetime residency in the UAE through unofficial means.
“This has been extremely misleading,” said a Dubai-based entrepreneur who had inquired about the offer. “If not for the ICP’s warning, many people like me would have fallen for it.”
Others called for tighter scrutiny of private firms operating in immigration advisory roles, emphasizing the need for clearer regulation and better public awareness.
The Official Path to UAE Golden Visa
The UAE’s Golden Visa programme remains one of the most attractive long-term residency initiatives in the region. It is designed to attract and retain exceptional talent, investors, entrepreneurs, researchers, medical professionals, and outstanding students.
As of now, Golden Visa applications are processed exclusively through official UAE government platforms, such as the ICP and other authorized federal or emirate-level bodies. There are no shortcuts, guaranteed approvals, or lifetime versions currently recognized under UAE law.
Eligible individuals must meet specific criteria depending on their professional background, investments, achievements, or contributions to society. Documentation and screening are thorough, with final approvals resting solely in the hands of the government.
Final Words
This incident serves as a crucial reminder to both service providers and applicants. Clarity, transparency, and adherence to legal procedures are vital in matters involving immigration and residency.
Rayad Group’s public apology and ICP’s strong stance underscore the UAE’s commitment to upholding its immigration laws and protecting individuals from misinformation. Moving forward, residents and applicants are urged to rely only on official government channels and verified sources when considering something as important as long-term residency.
For accurate and updated information on UAE Golden Visas:
Visit the official ICP website or use the ICP UAE Smart App.
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