UAE citizenship for expats: Who can apply and how!

• All you need to know about acquiring the Emirati nationality and passport.

The UAE has approved amendments to the citizenship law, allowing investors, professionals, special talents and their families to acquire the Emirati nationality and passport under certain conditions.

The step aims to appreciate the talents and competencies in the UAE and attract brighter minds to the Emirati community “in a way that contributes to the development and prosperity of the country”.

Here is all you need to know.

Who are eligible?

>> Investors

>> Doctors

>> Specialists

>> Inventors

>> Scientists

>> Talents

>> Intellectuals

>> Artists

>> The families of all the categories above.
Can one retain his/her original citizenship?

Yes.

Can a resident apply for citizenship?

Acquiring the Emirati citizenship will be done through nominations from Rulers’ and Crown Princes’ Courts, Executive Councils, and the Cabinet based on federal entities nominations.

What are the benefits?

The UAE citizenship offers a wide range of benefits, including the right to establish or own commercial entities and properties.

What are the terms and conditions?

>> Investors

They are required to own a property in the UAE.

>> Doctors and specialists

They must be specialised in a unique scientific discipline or any other that are highly required in the UAE. The applicant must have acknowledged scientific contributions, studies and research of scientific value and a practical experience of not less than 10 years, in addition to obtaining membership in a reputable organisation in his field of specialisation.

>> Scientists

They are required to be an active researcher in a university or research centre or in the private sector, with a practical experience of not less than 10 years in the same field. They also should have contributions in the scientific field such as winning a prestigious scientific award, or securing substantial funding for their research during the past 10 years. It is also mandatory to obtain a recommendation letter from recognised scientific institutions in the UAE.

>> Inventors

They are required to obtain one or more patents that are approved by the UAE Ministry of Economy or any other reputable international body, in addition to a recommendation letter from the Economy Ministry.

>> Creative talents

Intellectuals and artists should be pioneers in the culture and art fields and winners of one or more international award(s). A recommendation letter from related government entities is mandatory as well.

Other requirements

In case one qualifies, other requirements include swearing the oath of allegiance; committing to abide by the Emirati laws; and officially informing the respective government agency in case of acquiring or losing any other citizenship.

Can the citizenship be withdrawn?

As per the amendments, the citizenship can be withdrawn upon breach of the conditions.