Citizenship from UAE: The Complete 2025 Guide

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has become one of the most attractive destinations in the world for expatriates, entrepreneurs, and investors. With its tax-free environment, world-class infrastructure, and global connectivity, many residents dream of obtaining citizenship from the UAE.

However, UAE citizenship laws are very selective and differ significantly from other countries. The UAE does not offer a typical “citizenship by investment” program like some European or Caribbean nations. Instead, it grants citizenship through naturalization, merit, or special government approval under strict criteria.

This article explains in detail how to get citizenship from the UAE, who qualifies, and what legal pathways are available in 2025.

Understanding UAE Citizenship

The UAE nationality law is based on Federal Law No. 17 of 1972, which outlines who is considered a UAE citizen and under what circumstances others may apply.
Traditionally, citizenship was only available to Emiratis by birth, descent, or marriage.

In recent years, however, the UAE government has introduced reforms to allow selected foreigners — especially investors, professionals, and scientists — to apply for UAE citizenship under special conditions.

Who Can Get Citizenship from UAE?

The UAE government grants citizenship to a few specific categories of people. These include:

1. Individuals by Birth or Descent

   • Anyone born to a UAE father automatically becomes a UAE citizen.

   • Children born to a UAE mother and a foreign father may also obtain citizenship under specific conditions.

2. Citizenship by Marriage

   • A foreign woman married to a UAE citizen can apply for citizenship after at least 7 years of marriage (or 10 years if the couple has no children).

3. Citizenship by Decree (Special Merit or Contribution)

   • The UAE President or Ruler of an Emirate can grant citizenship to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the nation.

4. Citizenship for Investors, Scientists, and Professionals (New Law 2021 Onwards)
   In January 2021, the UAE approved an amendment allowing the government to nominate certain foreign residents for citizenship from uae .
   Eligible categories include:

   • Investors: Those owning property in the UAE.

   • Doctors and Specialists: With unique expertise in key fields.

   • Scientists: Active researchers with international recognition.

   • Inventors and Innovators: With patents approved by the UAE.

   • Intellectuals and Artists: With a distinguished record of achievements.

   These individuals can be nominated by the Rulers’ Courts, Executive Councils, or the Cabinet.

Requirements for Citizenship from UAE

To qualify for UAE citizenship, applicants generally must:

• Have lawful and continuous residence in the UAE for a certain number of years.

• Be fluent in Arabic.

• Have good conduct and reputation (no criminal record).

• Have a legitimate source of income.

• Demonstrate loyalty to the UAE and respect for its culture.

For those applying under the 2021 amendment (by merit or investment), additional requirements apply, such as:

• Holding property ownership in the UAE.

• Having a valid residence visa.

• Maintaining a clean financial and legal record.

Can You Buy Citizenship from UAE?

No, the UAE does not offer direct citizenship by investment like Malta, Turkey, or Saint Kitts & Nevis.

However, you can obtain long-term residency through the UAE Golden Visa program, which is often the first step toward long-term settlement.

The Golden Visa offers:

• 5-year or 10-year renewable residence permits.

• The ability to live, work, and own property in the UAE.

• Family sponsorship (spouse, children, and parents).

Although Golden Visa holders do not automatically receive citizenship, it helps establish long-term ties that may support future citizenship eligibility through nomination.

Citizenship Application Process

Since there is no open application portal for UAE citizenship, the process is handled internally through government nominations.

Step-by-Step Overview:

1. Build Eligibility:
   Establish long-term residence, investment, or recognized professional achievements in the UAE.

2. Government Nomination:
   Candidates are nominated by the Rulers’ Court, Executive Council, or UAE Cabinet.

3. Background Check:
   Security clearance, financial verification, and legal checks are conducted.

4. Approval by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA):
   Final decision rests with the UAE President.

5. Citizenship Certificate Issued:
   Upon approval, the applicant receives UAE nationality, along with full rights and obligations.

Rights and Privileges of UAE Citizenship

Becoming a UAE citizen offers extensive privileges, including:

• UAE Passport: One of the strongest passports in the world, offering visa-free access to 170+ countries.

• Right to Vote: Participation in certain public affairs.

• Government Benefits: Access to healthcare, education, and retirement support.

• Tax Advantages: No personal income tax.

• Property Ownership: Full ownership rights in all emirates.

Dual Citizenship in UAE

Before 2021, UAE citizens were not allowed dual nationality.
However, the new law now permits dual citizenship from uae under specific conditions.
This means foreigners granted UAE nationality do not have to renounce their original citizenship — unless required by their home country.

Difference Between UAE Citizenship and Golden Visa

Common Misconceptions About UAE Citizenship

Myth 1: Anyone can apply for UAE citizenship online.
Fact: Citizenship is granted by invitation or government nomination only.

Myth 2: You can buy UAE citizenship through real estate investment.
Fact: UAE offers residency by investment, not citizenship by investment.

Myth 3: Long-term residents automatically become citizens.
Fact: Residency does not guarantee citizenship, even after many years.

Future Outlook: Citizenship Policies in the UAE

The UAE’s forward-thinking approach to attracting talent and investment continues to evolve.
Experts believe that over time, the government may expand eligibility to include more skilled professionals, business owners, and long-term residents who contribute meaningfully to the economy.

These reforms highlight the UAE’s commitment to becoming a global hub for innovation and investment, while maintaining cultural integrity and national identity.

Conclusion

Obtaining citizenship from UAE is a rare privilege, reserved for individuals who contribute significantly to the nation’s development.
While the country does not offer direct citizenship by investment, it provides long-term residency routes and government-nominated citizenship from uae opportunities for deserving individuals.

With a stable economy, zero income tax, and world-class living standards, the UAE remains one of the most desirable countries for expatriates seeking security, opportunity, and global prestige.