In recent years, Dubai has transformed into a hotspot not only for tourists but also for Indian film celebrities looking to invest in luxury properties. Bollywood, Tollywood, and Kollywood stars are making significant real estate investments in Dubai, acquiring homes, luxury apartments, and entertainment properties. Many are even establishing permanent residences, drawn by the city’s international infrastructure, security, lavish lifestyle, and global business opportunities.
One of the major attractions for celebrities is the availability of world-class locations for film shoots and entertainment venues. The recent establishment of a modern shooting facility called Studio City is a testament to Dubai’s growing appeal as a favorite destination for filmmakers. Additionally, numerous Indian film award ceremonies have been successfully hosted in the city, further solidifying its status as a prime location for entertainment events.
With a large Indian expatriate community, Dubai has become a convenient venue for hosting entertainment shows and movie promotions, providing another advantage for celebrities. The city’s strategic location allows for easy travel to many countries within just eight hours. Furthermore, the presence of international schools offering quality education, advanced medical facilities, and a luxurious lifestyle adds to its allure.
Analysts point out that the low tax regime in Dubai is a significant draw for many. Residents are not required to pay personal income tax, and there are no taxes on wealth or property transfers to heirs. Corporations only face a moderate tax on profits, making it an attractive environment for small and medium-sized businesses to flourish.
Moreover, the political stability and low crime rates in Dubai have prompted many celebrities to relocate their families to the city. The strict laws against unauthorized photography and the absence of media frenzy contribute to a higher level of privacy, making Dubai an appealing option for those in the limelight.
Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan owns a lavish villa in the Palm Jumeirah area, known for being one of the most expensive places in the world, attracting his fans. Other prominent figures, including the Ambani family, Salman Khan, and Sanjay Dutt, have also invested in high-end residential properties in Dubai. Additionally, many Indian celebrities have already made the UAE their home, including actor R. Madhavan, who moved with his family for his son’s swimming career, and tennis star Sania Mirza, who resides there post-divorce.
Moreover, Sanjay Dutt’s wife spends considerable time in Dubai for their children’s education, while pop star Yo Yo Honey Singh and actress Rakhi Sawant have also settled in the city. Tamil superstar Ajith frequently travels to Dubai for car racing events, and numerous Tollywood actors are showing interest in purchasing apartments and holiday homes in the city, utilizing them for shooting and family vacations.
Besides residences, some celebrities are investing in developing areas of Dubai, purchasing real estate plots and commercial spaces, viewing them as secure investments given the region’s booming tourism potential. Despite being an Islamic country, Dubai maintains a relatively liberal approach compared to other Middle Eastern nations, with civil personal status laws in place for non-Muslims.
Recently, the UAE has announced that live-in relationships, which many celebrities are pursuing, will no longer be considered illegal, further encouraging a relaxed lifestyle. In addition, a casino is set to open in the nearby Ras Al Khaimah region, suggesting that Dubai will continue to evolve as a favored destination for celebrities.
