Is Dubai the New Canada for Indians? The Big Switch!

Recently, India and the United Arab Emirates have built a strong relationship. Trade, tourism, culture, everything is growing between the countries, establishing a stronger relationship. Big events like the opening of the BAPS Temple in Abu Dhabi on 14th February, 2024, have shown how deeply connected the two countries have become. Reports suggest that nearly 4 million Indians are now living in the UAE, making it one of the largest Indian communities outside India. 

Why the sudden shift from Canada to Dubai? Why are rich Indians and even middle-class families thinking about Dubai instead of the West?

• Money

To be more specific, due to the taxes. In Dubai, income tax is almost non-existent compared to India and Canada, where people have to pay heavy taxes. Dubai is like a tax-free heaven for business owners and wealthy families. People who have worked hard to build their businesses in India want to keep more of their earnings, and Dubai offers them that chance.

• Safety

In most parts of India, specifically in Punjab, wealthy individuals often get threats from gangsters demanding money. In Dubai, law and order are very strict. Crime rates are very low, so families feel safer living there without constantly worrying about security, and there are business opportunities too, as Dubai's economy is booming, specifically in real estate, tourism, and finance. Starting a business in Dubai is much simpler and faster as compared to Western counterparts.

• Geographical location 

From India, one can fly to Dubai in just 3 to 4 hours, so visiting family back home becomes easier, unlike Canada, where one trip can take nearly a decade and cost a fortune. People are now realizing that getting a visa for Dubai is much easier than struggling for a Canadian visa, where the rejection rate has drastically gone up, and immigration rules have become stricter, specifically after the diplomatic tension between India and Canada. Most Punjabis from India have already moved to Dubai in the last 2 or 3 years, not just for work but to settle permanently.

It is important to understand that Dubai is not yet a complete replacement for Canada, specifically for students. Canada still offers the dream of permanent residency after studies, which Dubai often doesn't give easily. Dubai is still growing as an education hub, and some universities are starting to attract Indian students, but for now, students looking for a full permanent residency route still prefer countries like Canada, Australia, and the UK.

So, in simple terms, Dubai is currently more attractive for business owners, investors, and wealthy families who want quick setups, load access, safety, and convenience. The city is less attractive for young students who dream of settling there with a permanent residency.

Well, looking at the current conditions and statistics, we can say that this statement is partly true, but specifically for the rich. For the middle class and students, Canada still holds its charm, even though it is not as easy to relocate there as before. 

Looking at the future, Dubai might slowly become a bigger choice for students, too, as more educational opportunities open up. But for now, it's mainly the dream destination for businessmen, celebrities, and high-net-worth individuals who want the best of both worlds, and an international life close to India. After all, all Indians look for places where they can grow, stay safe, and be connected to their roots, and right now, for many people, Dubai seems to be ticking all the boxes.

With more and more opportunities emerging in Dubai, this heaven of growth and opportunities will likely further attract a huge population of people, including Indians, who are waiting for the moment when the opportunities bloom to step up in this kingdom of dreams.

The Canada that was once considered the dream of many Indians is now starting to fade because of various reasons, and is now losing the race for opportunities to Dubai, specifically among the rich people, celebrities, and businessmen. Currently, Dubai may not be the dream destination for students, but it is expected that with increasing educational opportunities, it is highly likely that Dubai will rise as the top choice for students, too.