Dreaming of living in a country full of luxury, skyscrapers, and economic stability? The United Arab Emirates (UAE) attracts people from all over the world – from entrepreneurs to artists. But how can you obtain UAE citizenship? It’s not an easy process, as the Emirates are highly selective when it comes to granting passports. However, if you want to know how to obtain UAE citizenship and who is eligible, you’re in the right place. This article provides a complete guide – from requirements to the steps you need to take. Let’s get started!
Why is UAE citizenship so desirable?
Wondering why people dream of a UAE passport? There are plenty of reasons. First, there’s no income tax here – a paradise for entrepreneurs and investors. Second, the UAE is one of the safest places in the world, with low crime rates and a stable political environment. On top of that, it offers access to world-class healthcare and education.
Citizenship is different from popular residency visas, such as the Golden Visa, which grants residence for 5 or 10 years. As a citizen, you become a full-fledged member of Emirati society, enjoying rights that mere residency does not provide. However, there’s a catch: the UAE doesn’t hand out passports to just anyone. It’s an exclusive club, and gaining entry isn’t easy. Why? Because the country seeks individuals who can truly contribute to its growth.
Who can obtain UAE citizenship?
Not everyone can become a UAE citizen, but certain groups have a chance. If you want citizenship, you must fall into one of the following categories: marriage to an Emirati, exceptional contributions to the country, long-term naturalization, or birth under specific circumstances.
The UAE does not offer citizenship simply for living there or purchasing property – a common myth found online. Authorities are looking for individuals who either bring something exceptional (e.g., scientists) or establish strong personal ties (e.g., through family connections). Let’s take a closer look at how it works.
How to obtain UAE citizenship?
Want to know how to get UAE citizenship? Here are the four main pathways – each with its own rules, requirements, and challenges.
Citizenship through marriage
If you’re considering marrying a UAE citizen, this could be your path to a passport – but only under specific conditions. A woman who marries an Emirati man can apply for citizenship after 7–10 years of marriage. The catch? The husband must approve, and the marriage must be officially recognized by the authorities. In some cases, the court may also require that you have children from the marriage, as this increases your chances.
What about men? Unfortunately, if you marry an Emirati woman, citizenship is not an option. UAE law follows traditional principles, granting nationality primarily through the father. So, if you’re a woman planning to marry an Emirati man, prepare for a long process and extensive paperwork. Understanding the culture is also crucial – it shows that you take life in the UAE seriously.
Citizenship for exceptional contributions
Do you have a talent that sets you apart globally? If you’re a scientist, doctor, artist, or investor, you may qualify for citizenship based on outstanding contributions to the country. In 2021, the UAE opened this pathway to attract top talent. For example, if you hold a patent for a groundbreaking invention or have won international awards, you could be considered for citizenship.
How does it work? You must receive a nomination from the government, a ruling Emir, or a prestigious UAE institution. Investors who inject millions into the economy and gain recognition may also have a chance. However, this isn’t something you can simply buy – authorities prioritize real contributions over financial wealth. If you have something exceptional to offer, try reaching out to local government officials or the UAE embassy.
Citizenship through naturalization
Dreaming of becoming a citizen through long-term residency? This is the rarest and most challenging route. If you wish to obtain citizenship through naturalization, you must legally reside in the UAE for at least 30 years – without interruptions. You also need fluency in Arabic, a clean criminal record, and… you must renounce any other nationality. The UAE does not allow dual citizenship, making this a major decision.
Who benefits from this? Mainly individuals born in the Gulf region who have spent their entire lives in the UAE and have strong roots there. For the average expatriate, this is nearly impossible – 30 years is a long time, and the requirement to give up another passport discourages many.
Citizenship by birth
Think being born in the UAE automatically grants you citizenship? Not at all. The law here is different from countries like the U.S., Canada, or Poland. A child born in the UAE only receives citizenship if the father is Emirati. An Emirati mother can pass on citizenship, but only in exceptional cases – for example, if the father is stateless or unknown.
What about expatriate children? If both parents are foreigners, the child does not receive UAE citizenship, even if born in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. This highlights how strongly the Emirates protect their national identity.
Step-by-step citizenship process
Let’s assume you qualify for one of the above pathways. What comes next? The process isn’t simple, but it can be broken down into key steps. To obtain citizenship, you must:
- Gather documents – Marriage certificates, proof of achievements (e.g., patents), residency or birth records. Everything must be in Arabic or officially translated.
- Submit an application – Usually through the immigration office or via a government nomination.
- Wait for approval – The decision is made by the Council of Ministers or a ruling Emir. This can take months or even years.
- Take an oath – If approved, you must swear allegiance to the UAE.
- Receive your passport – Congratulations, you are now a UAE citizen!
Realistically, this is a long process filled with bureaucracy. A lot depends on your circumstances and connections. Without the support of local authorities, it’s difficult to move forward.
Alternatives to citizenship – visas and residency
Not everyone wants or qualifies for UAE citizenship. Luckily, there are other options. The Golden Visa has been a major success in recent years – if you invest 2 million AED (approx. $545,000 USD) in real estate or business, you can obtain a 10-year residency permit. A 5-year visa is also available for professionals in specialized fields.
How does this differ from citizenship? You don’t get voting rights or full access to social benefits, but you can legally and comfortably live in the UAE. For many expatriates, this is enough – especially since visas are much easier to obtain than a passport.
How to become an Emirati – final thoughts
How do you obtain UAE citizenship? It’s a challenge, but not impossible. If you want an Emirati passport, you can try through marriage, exceptional contributions, naturalization, or birth – each path has its own rules and requires patience. The UAE seeks people who truly commit to the country or offer something valuable.
Don’t be discouraged – if this is your dream, start by consulting an immigration lawyer or the UAE embassy. Life in Dubai or Abu Dhabi with an Emirati passport is within reach if you prepare well. Good luck!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have dual citizenship in the UAE?
No, the UAE requires you to renounce any other nationality. This is a strict rule with no exceptions.
How much does UAE citizenship cost?
There is no fixed price – it’s not something you can buy. Costs depend on the pathway.
Does investing in real estate grant citizenship?
No, it only grants residency (e.g., the Golden Visa). Citizenship requires more than just financial investment.
