The UAE authorities have approved amendments to Cabinet Decision No. 2/1972 (the Implementing Regulations to the Federal Nationality and Passports Law, Federal Law No. 17/1972) to allow investors, professionals, those with special talents and their families to acquire Emirati nationality and passport in certain circumstances.
Among others, investors, doctors, specialists, inventors, scientists, talents, intellectuals, artists and their spouses and children will be able to benefit from the changes. They will be able to keep their existing nationality.
Emirati citizenship will be able to be obtained through nominations from Rulers and Crown Princes as well as Courts, Executive Councils and the Cabinet for Federal entity nominations. Investors have to own property in the UAE while doctors and specialists have to be specialists in a unique scientific discipline or other scientific principles which are in heavy demand in the UAE.
The applicant also has to have acknowledged scientific contributions, studies and research of scientific value and practical experience of at least 10 years. In addition, they have to have membership in a reputable organisation in their specialist area.
Scientists have to be active researchers in a university or research centre or in the private sector, with practical experience of at least 10 years in the same field. They should also have contributions in the scientific field such as winning a prestigious scientific award or securing substantial funding for their research during the past ten years. In addition, they will have to obtain a recommendation letter from recognised scientific institutions in the UAE.
Inventors who want to acquire Emirati citizenship have to obtain one or more patents which are approved by the UAE Economy Ministry or any other reputable international body as well as a recommendation letter from the Economy Ministry.
Individuals with creative talents like intellectuals and artists have to be pioneers in the culture and art fields and have won at least one international award. A recommendation letter from related Government entities will also be required.
Those who qualify will also have to swear an oath of allegiance, commit to abide by the Emirati laws and officially informing the respective Government agency if acquiring or forfeiting any other citizenship is required.
Citizens are able to establish or own commercial entities and properties. They are also entitled to any other benefits which are granted by federal authorities after Cabinet or local authority approval. If the conditions are violated, citizenship can be withdrawn. The aim is to attract international talent to the country.