Spouses and children of select foreigners who acquire citizenship in the UAE are eligible to receive the Emirati passport.
Under the new law announced on Saturday, the amendments also allow dual citizenship, which means those selected as part of the scheme can retain their current nationality.
Those who are allowed to apply for citizenship are investors, doctors, specialists, inventors, scientists, talents, intellectuals, artists, and their families.
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Acquiring the Emirati citizenship will be done through nominations from Rulers’ and Crown Princes’ Courts, Executive Councils, and the Cabinet based on federal entities nominations.
However, they are subjected to terms and conditions.
For investors, they are required to own a property in the UAE.
For doctors and specialists, they must specialize in a unique scientific discipline or any other that are highly required in the UAE and must have a practical experience of not less than 10 years. They are required to obtain membership in a reputable organization in their field of specialization.
Scientists are required to be an active researcher in a university or research center or in the private sector with a practical experience of not less than 10 years in the same field. A recommendation letter from recognized scientific institutions in the UAE is also required.
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Inventors, on the other hand, are required to obtain one or more patents that are approved by the UAE Ministry of Economy or any other reputable international body, in addition to a recommendation letter from the Economy Ministry.
Intellectuals and artists should be pioneers in the culture and art fields and winners of one or more international awards and a recommendation letter from related government entities.
The other requirements include swearing the oath of allegiance; committing to abide by the Emirati laws; and officially informing the respective government agency in case of acquiring or losing any other citizenship.
Should they breach any of the conditions, their citizenship may be withdrawn.
