UAE citizenship: who can get it and is it really worth it?

Dubai and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are a sought-after destination for entrepreneurs, investors and skilled workers from all over the world. The tax advantages, economic stability and high quality of life make the country particularly attractive. But while many expats live in the UAE long-term, citizenship remains out of reach for most - or does it?

The UAE's naturalization system has changed in recent years. Whereas in the past, citizens were almost exclusively naturalized by birth, there are now new options for certain groups. But how exactly does the process work and what are the real benefits of Emirati citizenship?

1. how to obtain UAE citizenship?

Traditionally, citizenship of the UAE was highly restricted and reserved for only a few. Today, there are several ways to become a citizen of the Emirates:

a) Birth and parentage

- Children of a UAE citizen automatically receive citizenship - regardless of the country in which they were born.

- Children of Emirati mothers and foreign fathers can be naturalized under certain conditions, but not automatically.

- In exceptional cases, children of stateless parents who were born in the UAE can also be granted citizenship.

b) Marriage with an Emirati

Foreign women have the option of becoming naturalized through marriage. However, strict conditions apply:

- The marriage must have existed for at least seven years (ten years without children).

- The woman must live permanently in the UAE and prove that she is integrated into society.

- If a divorce occurs before citizenship has been granted, the entitlement lapses.

Male foreigners who marry Emirati women, on the other hand, are not eligible for naturalization.

c) Naturalization through special merit

Since 2021, there has been a regulation that allows highly qualified specialists to naturalize. These include:

- Investors who invest at least AED 10 million (approx. USD 2.7 million) in the UAE.

- Scientists and doctors who have made outstanding achievements in specific disciplines.

- Engineers and technology experts, especially in future-oriented areas such as artificial intelligence or biotechnology.

- Artists, authors and creative artists who are internationally recognized.

It is not possible to apply directly for this program. Candidates must be nominated by high-ranking government officials or members of the royal family.

2 What are the advantages of UAE citizenship?

a) Tax exemption

The UAE has no income tax for private individuals. This means that anyone who is officially a UAE citizen can earn their income tax-free, which is particularly attractive for entrepreneurs and investors.

b) A powerful passport

The Emirati passport is one of the best travel documents in the world and offers visa-free or visa-free access to over 170 countries, including:

- EU Schengen states

- Great Britain

- Japan, Singapore, South Korea

- Australia and New Zealand

People who travel a lot therefore benefit considerably from citizenship.

c) Exclusive state benefits

UAE nationals have access to numerous social and financial benefits:

- Free healthcare system

- State pension programs

- Preferential conditions for real estate financing

- Support for business start-ups

d) Permanent right of residence

While expats require a visa, which must be renewed regularly, Emirati citizens have an unrestricted right of residence. This provides financial and legal security.

3. what are the challenges?

a) The difficult application process

There is no official application process for UAE citizenship. Those who qualify must be nominated by high-ranking government officials. This makes the process opaque and inaccessible to many.

b) Loss of previous citizenship

The UAE does not officially recognize dual citizenship. This means that anyone who wants to become an Emirati citizen has to give up their previous nationality. This is a decisive disadvantage for many.

c) Cultural and social requirements

The UAE has a very conservative society. Applicants must integrate into the culture, learn Arabic and respect Emirati traditions. Those who do not adapt have little chance of being naturalized.

4th alternative to citizenship: the Golden Visa

For many people who want to live in the UAE long-term, the Golden Visa is a viable alternative to citizenship.

- Duration: 5 or 10 years with automatic renewal

- Target group: Investors, entrepreneurs, highly qualified professionals, outstanding students

- Advantages: No sponsor required, long-term residence security

The Golden Visa offers many advantages of citizenship without having to give up your original nationality.

5 Conclusion: Is UAE citizenship worth it?

Emirati citizenship is a rare privilege granted to very few people. It comes with numerous benefits, including tax exemption, global mobility and financial security.

However, there are high hurdles: The application process is not transparent, the requirements are strict and giving up your previous nationality is a deal-breaker for many.

For most expats, the Golden Visa is probably the better option. It offers long-term security without having to give up your nationality or undergo a complicated naturalization process.

Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal and business goals. Dubai remains an attractive place for entrepreneurs, investors and professionals - whether as a citizen or a long-term resident with a Golden Visa.

Business Rocket