ISLAMABAD: By Tariq Nadeem
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) does allow foreigners to obtain Emirati nationality, but only under very limited and strictly regulated circumstances, according to official government sources.
UAE nationality matters are governed by Federal Law No. 17 of 1972 on Nationality and Passports and its subsequent amendments. In January 2021, the UAE Cabinet introduced significant changes, making it possible for select foreign nationals to receive citizenship without surrendering their original nationality.
Under the law, citizenship is most commonly granted by descent; automatically to children of Emirati fathers, and in some cases to children of Emirati mothers. A foreign woman married to an Emirati man can also apply after a minimum period of marriage, generally seven years if the couple has children, and ten years otherwise.
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Although UAE law still includes provisions for naturalisation after many years of residence, officials admit such cases are uncommon. In 2021, authorities introduced an “exceptional merit” pathway, under which the government may grant citizenship to selected individuals, including investors, medical experts, scientists, inventors, and cultural personalities. These nominations are made by high-level bodies such as the Rulers’ Courts, Crown Princes’ Courts, or the UAE Cabinet.
Officials stress that there is no open application process for this route. “Golden Visas” and other long-term residency permits do not automatically lead to citizenship. Dual nationality is permitted in certain cases under the 2021 rules, but remains subject to approval and the laws of the individual’s home country.
Tariq Nadeem is a senior journalist based in Islamabad, covering foreign affairs and the economy. He can be reached at [email protected]
