Get Your UAE Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
Let us make the application process easier. With our network of experts, easy-to-use tools and helpful progress trackers, we're your complete resource for acquiring dual citizenship.
Eligibility Overview
- By Descent: You are automatically UAE citizen at birth if born to an Emirati father, or to an Emirati mother in cases of unknown/stateless father. Dual citizenship for Emiratis is not permitted.
- By Marriage: Foreign women married to Emirati men may apply after 7 years of marriage (10 years if no children), renouncing foreign nationality.
- By Naturalization (Exceptional): Foreign investors, scientists, doctors, artists, and other elite professionals may be nominated for citizenship; under the 2021 amendments, they can retain their original citizenship.
- Dual Citizenship Policy: UAE does not generally allow dual citizenship. Citizens acquiring another nationality lose UAE citizenship, though foreign exceptions exist for those granted citizenship via nomination.
Step-by-Step Process
- Identify your eligibility route: descent, marriage, or exceptional nomination.
- Apply through the Rulers’ Court, Executive Council office, or Ministry of Interior.
- Provide documentation: proof of lineage, marriage, investment, professional achievement, and integration.
- Take oath of allegiance and, if UAE-national, no foreign citizenship allowed; if nominated, retain original nationality.
- Renounce your previous citizenship before final approval.Receive your Emirati citizenship certificate and apply for an Emirati passport.
Benefits of UAE Citizenship
- Unrestricted rights to live, work, and own property in the UAE
- Access to government services, healthcare, education, and subsidies
- Strong passport with regional visa-free travel; GCC mobility
- Ability to sponsor family and participate in civic life
- For exceptional nominees, retention of existing nationality
Frequently asked questions.
Does the UAE allow dual citizenship?
No — Emiratis automatically lose their UAE citizenship if they acquire another nationality. However, under 2021 law changes, foreign investors and elite professionals can be nominated for UAE citizenship without renouncing their original nationality.
Can I obtain UAE citizenship through marriage?
Only foreign women married to Emirati men can apply, and typically only after 7–10 years of marriage plus renunciation of foreign citizenship. Foreign husbands are not permitted.
What about citizenship through exceptional nomination?
From 2021 onwards, selected foreign investors, specialists, and talent may receive Emirati citizenship without having to give up their birth nationality. This is strictly by nomination from government or royal offices.
Will I owe taxes in both countries?
The UAE levies no personal income or inheritance taxes. If you retain another nationality and live or earn abroad, you may owe taxes based on that country’s tax rules. Double taxation treaties may apply — consult a tax advisor.