The UAE has announced ground-breaking news this year, revealing a new initiative to allow non-UAE nationals to obtain Emirati Citizenship and Passports. Reflecting the focus on its diversity and tolerance, the UAE has adopted law amendments that will allow granting Emirati citizenship to investors, specialised talents, and professionals. Under the directive of the President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Cabinet chaired by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, amendments to the Executive Regulation of the Federal Law concerning Nationality and Passports were approved, permitting the allowance.
The UAE Citizenship offers a wide range of benefits including; the right to establish or own commercial entities and properties, in addition to any other benefits granted by federal authorities after the approval of the Cabinet or local authorities, and is considered very prestigious amongst many expatriate communities. Furthermore, the UAE passport is considered as one of the more respected passports internationally, holding the 1st position on Arton Capital’s Passport Index from 2018 until the spread of COVID-19 in 2020. This is because a holder of the UAE passport could travel to 178 countries; 118 through visa-free travel and 60 through eVisa services or with a visa purchase on arrival at the destination airport.
This new scheme aims to effectively attract bright minds to the Emirati community to contribute to the country’s development and prosperity. The hopes are that this unique opportunity will create an attractive investment environment in the UAE, which will encourage business development and draw in new talent across a wide range of disciplines and international locations, with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid sharing on Twitter: “The new directives aim to attract talents that contribute to our development journey”.
Residents and expatriates have hailed the scheme thus far, highlighting that along with promoting the nation’s economic growth and development, this new scheme is a clear indication to non-UAE nationals that the UAE is, in fact, ‘A country of dreams’. Dubai is often referred to as ‘the city of the future’, with many suggesting that it will be the world’s most innovative city within the next ten years, thanks to some of its major innovation projects. With this new opportunity, attracting specialists across many fields, they can equip themselves with the tools to solve major problems of the world, all under one location.
So, who is eligible?
Investors
In order to be considered for nomination, Investors are required to own property within the UAE.
Doctors and specialists
Doctors and Specialists must be specialised within their area or be working within a highly sought-after field with the UAE. The individual in question, must have made acknowledged contributions, studies, and research of value and have a practical experience of no less than ten years within their said field. Additionally, it is required for specialists to obtain memberships from reputable organisations within their area of specialisation.
Scientists
Scientists are to be active researchers within their field, whether that be in a university or research centre, or the private sector, to be considered for citizenship. They should have also made contributions in their scientific field such as winning a prestigious scientific award or securing substantial funding for their research within the past ten years. It is also mandatory to obtain a recommendation letter from recognised scientific institutions in the UAE.
Inventors
The opportunity extends to inventors who have obtained one or more patents approved by the UAE Ministry of Economy or another reputable international body. They will also additionally require a recommendation letter from the Economy Ministry.
Creatives
Intellectuals and artists who are pioneers in their relevant culture and arts fields are eligible for the Citizenship application, providing that they have won one or more awards in their area. Additionally, they will require a recommendation letter from relevant government entities.
What about my family?
Family members of all who are eligible for the Citizenship Nomination share this opportunity.
Any other requirements?
If you are nominated for citizenship, this will be through the Emirates Rulers Courts, Courts of Crown Princes, Executive Council in an Emirate, or The Cabinet, based on federal entities’ nominations.
If and when qualifying for a nomination, it is mandatory to swear an oath of allegiance, before you are able to acquire citizenship. The individual in question will commit to abide by Emirati laws and pledge to officially inform the respective government agencies of any instances where they may have gained or lost citizenships to other locations.
Can I keep my current citizenship?
Simple answer – Yes! In unprecedented circumstances, the UAE is granting individuals to retain their current citizenship alongside their new UAE citizenship. This is a welcome change to previous rules, which did not allow dual citizenship.
How can Animo help?
With offices in Dubai, our expert consultants have a comprehensive understanding and regional knowledge to help guide you to the most appropriate choices for you and your business. If you have any queries about the above mentioned or any other relevant business queries, get in contact today, by calling us on +971 4705 0383, emailing us at info@animoassociates.com, or filling out our contact form below, and one of our consultants will be happy to advise on your next steps.
