Getting UAE nationality is a dream for many expats living in the Emirates. While the process is selective and regulated, it’s not impossible. Whether you’re an investor, long-term resident, or a skilled professional, this guide will explain how to become a UAE citizen, step by step.
Understanding UAE Nationality Law
UAE nationality is governed by Federal Law No. 17 of 1972 and its recent amendments. These updates have opened limited but clear paths for foreigners to acquire UAE citizenship.
Recent Reforms to UAE Citizenship Law
In 2021, the UAE made a historic shift by allowing certain foreigners to apply for citizenship based on merit. These include:
- Investors
- Scientists
- Skilled professionals
- Inventors
- Doctors
- Artists
These reforms brought in a new pathway for UAE nationality for expats, making it more accessible than before.
Who Can Apply for UAE Citizenship?
The UAE does not allow citizenship by application for the general public. It is typically granted by nomination from local rulers or government officials.
Eligible Categories for UAE Nationality
You may qualify if you fall into any of these categories:
- Long-term residents with Golden Visa
- Individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the country
- Foreign spouses married to Emiratis
- Children of UAE mothers and foreign fathers
- Investors or property owners with long-term presence
Understanding your UAE citizenship eligibility is the first step.
UAE Citizenship for Investors
Investment-based citizenship in the UAE is available for investors who have significantly contributed to the UAE economy.
Investment Requirements
There’s no public minimum amount, but most approved applicants have:
- Made real estate or business investments over AED 10 million
- Contributed to economic growth and local employment
- Maintained a long-term residence visa
- Proven loyalty and good character
This is one of the fastest-growing paths to UAE citizenship for investors.
UAE Citizenship Through Golden Visa
Holding a 10-year UAE Golden Visa increases your chances of being nominated for citizenship.
Golden Visa to Citizenship: The Path
- You must hold a clean record
- Make significant contributions in your field
- Maintain your investment or employment
- Build ties within the community
This is a slow but steady route for UAE permanent residency to citizenship transition.
Citizenship for Skilled Professionals and Scientists
The UAE values innovation and global talent. Professionals in science, healthcare, and engineering are often selected.
Who Qualifies?
You could be considered if you are:
- A PhD holder with over 10 years of experience
- A recognized expert in medicine or technology
- An innovator with patented work or international publications
- Actively working in the UAE under permanent residency
Such individuals are nominated by relevant government councils or royal courts.
UAE Citizenship by Marriage
Foreigners married to UAE nationals may qualify for citizenship under certain conditions.
Requirements for Spouses
- Must be legally married to a UAE citizen (Emirati)
- Foreign women married to Emirati men can apply after 7 years of marriage (or 10 years if they have no children)
- The couple must live together in the UAE and meet character and legal standards
This route is common and relatively easier for foreign women, but not available to foreign men married to Emirati women.
Citizenship for Children of UAE Mothers
Children born to Emirati mothers and foreign fathers now have a clearer path to citizenship.
Law for UAE Mothers
- Children can apply for nationality after reaching the age of 18
- The mother must be a UAE citizen by birth
- Applications are reviewed by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship
This was a major reform to ensure equal nationality rights for children of Emirati women.
UAE Citizenship for Special Contributions
The UAE grants nationality to individuals who’ve made exceptional cultural, scientific, or economic contributions.
Notable Fields Recognized
- Fine arts
- Literature and writing
- Innovation and R&D
- Scientific achievements
- Philanthropy and community service
Recognition must come from official bodies or UAE royal families, and the individual must hold a valid residency visa.
Citizenship Through Long-Term Residency
Living in the UAE for many years with a clean legal record could improve your chances.
How Long-Term Residents Qualify
Although there’s no formal naturalization process for most expats, some exceptions include:
- Living in the UAE for over 30 years
- Continuous legal residency and tax compliance
- Strong contribution to the UAE economy or society
Such individuals may be nominated based on community impact and loyalty.
Steps to Acquire UAE Nationality (If Nominated)
If you are nominated for UAE nationality, a legal process begins.
Step-by-Step Citizenship Process
- Nomination by a UAE ruler, court, or government council
- Background verification and security clearance
- Submission of biometric data and documents
- Renunciation of original nationality (if required)
- Oath of allegiance and UAE citizenship granted
It is not an application-based system. You must be selected and invited by the authorities.
Rights and Duties of a UAE Citizen
Being granted UAE citizenship brings many benefits and a few obligations.
What You Gain and Owe as a Citizen
Rights:
- Access to UAE passport
- Right to vote and run for office
- Free healthcare and education
- Social welfare and housing benefits
Duties:
- Loyalty to the UAE constitution
- Upholding UAE traditions and laws
- National service (for male citizens if eligible)
It’s a lifetime privilege that comes with national responsibilities.
Can You Keep Dual Citizenship in UAE?
The UAE now allows dual citizenship for certain individuals, but only under special conditions.
Dual Citizenship in UAE
- Allowed only when approved by UAE authorities
- Not automatic – must be explicitly granted
- The second passport must not conflict with national interest
While rare, dual nationality in UAE is possible for citizens by royal decree.
Conclusion
Getting UAE nationality is a selective but achievable goal for those who contribute meaningfully to the country. Whether through investment, talent, marriage, or long-term residency, the UAE offers a path for deserving individuals. It’s not a simple application—you must be nominated and approved through official channels.
If you’re aiming to settle permanently and seek to become part of the UAE’s future, understanding the legal paths, requirements, and eligibility is the first step in your UAE citizenship process.
FAQs
Can a foreigner get UAE citizenship?
Yes, but only through nomination. Foreigners cannot directly apply. You must be selected based on merit or contribution.
Is UAE nationality available for Indian citizens?
Indian citizens can receive UAE nationality through marriage, investment, or special contribution, but may need to give up Indian citizenship as India does not allow dual citizenship.
What is the UAE citizenship by investment program?
While there is no formal public program, investors contributing over AED 10 million may be considered for nomination.
How long do I need to live in UAE to become a citizen?
Typically over 30 years, or 7–10 years if married to a UAE national, or immediately if nominated due to exceptional skills.
Can I apply for a UAE passport?
Only approved citizens can obtain a UAE passport. You cannot apply for it independently without prior citizenship approval.
Can children of expats born in UAE get citizenship?
No, unless one parent is an Emirati. Birth in UAE alone does not guarantee nationality.
What’s the difference between Golden Visa and UAE citizenship?
Golden Visa offers long-term residency. Citizenship offers full rights, including a passport and voting rights.
Is UAE dual citizenship allowed?
Yes, in rare cases and only by official approval. It’s not granted automatically.
Can professionals like doctors and engineers get UAE nationality?
Yes, especially if they have global recognition, patents, or long-standing contribution to the UAE.
Is there any public application form for UAE citizenship?
No. You must be nominated. There’s no direct or online application available to the public.
