HOW TO GET UAE NATIONALITY: [COMPLETE GUIDE]

Introduction

Nationality by birth is a crucial aspect of the legal framework governing citizenship in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). For many families living in the UAE, understanding how nationality is conferred on children is essential, particularly in a country with a large expatriate population.

While UAE law clearly grants nationality to children of Emirati fathers, the position is more nuanced for children born to Emirati mothers and foreign fathers. Recent legal reforms have introduced greater flexibility, although citizenship remains a sovereign and discretionary matter.

This guide focuses on the criteria for obtaining a UAE passport by birth, the distinction between paternal and maternal transmission of nationality, and the evolving legal trends shaping nationality law.

Is it hard to become a UAE citizen?

Yes. UAE nationality is highly restricted and granted only in narrow circumstances, such as birth to an Emirati father or by exceptional state-level decision. It is not an application-based process comparable to Western citizenship systems.

How much does it cost to become a UAE citizen?

There is no fee-based or commercial pathway to UAE citizenship.

Nationality is a sovereign grant and cannot be purchased or obtained through a tariff-based scheme.

Eligibility Criteria for UAE Nationality

There are four principal routes to UAE nationality: by birth, by descent, by marriage, and by naturalisation. This publication focuses primarily on nationality by birth, while briefly outlining the other routes.

Nationality by Birth and Descent

Children born to a UAE citizen father, or in certain circumstances to a UAE citizen mother, may acquire UAE nationality. However, nationality is not granted solely by place of birth. Children born in the UAE to foreign parents do not automatically acquire UAE citizenship.

When analysing nationality by birth, it is essential to distinguish between children born to Emirati fathers and those born to Emirati mothers.

Children Born to an Emirati Father

Under UAE law, children born to an Emirati father automatically acquire UAE nationality, regardless of the place of birth or the nationality of the mother. This reflects the principle of jus sanguinis, whereby nationality is transmitted through bloodline.

• Automatic nationality: Citizenship is conferred from birth.
• Foreign mothers: The mother’s nationality does not affect the child’s entitlement.
• No residency requirement: Birth inside or outside the UAE is irrelevant.

This approach reflects the traditional patrilineal structure of nationality law in the UAE.

Children Born to an Emirati Mother

Children born to an Emirati mother and a foreign father do not automatically acquire UAE nationality. Historically, nationality transmission was primarily paternal. However, legislative reforms now allow such children to apply for UAE nationality under specific conditions.

• No automatic nationality: Citizenship is not granted at birth.
• Application-based process: Nationality may be granted subject to governmental approval.
• Eligibility conditions: Applications may be considered where the father is stateless, unknown, or where the child is born and raised in the UAE in line with local cultural values.
• Recent flexibility: Authorities have shown increased openness in long-residency and integration cases.

Special Circumstances

• Unknown or stateless fathers: The mother’s nationality may prevail.
• Exceptional contribution cases: Accelerated consideration may be granted in rare situations.

Nationality by Marriage

Foreign women married to Emirati men may apply for UAE nationality after a qualifying marriage period, typically seven years, subject to good conduct, continuous residency and compliance with legal requirements. The period may vary where the couple has children.

Foreign men married to Emirati women do not acquire nationality through marriage, although their children may qualify through the mother.

Nationality by Naturalisation

Naturalisation is available only in exceptional circumstances and is subject to strict eligibility criteria, including:

• Long-term lawful residence (often 20–30 years)
• Fluency in Arabic
• Good conduct and clean criminal record
• Demonstrated integration and contribution to UAE society

Applications are reviewed on a discretionary, case-by-case basis.

Recent Legal Reforms

The UAE has introduced targeted reforms allowing selected investors, professionals and individuals with specialised skills to be granted nationality. These measures align with the country’s strategy to attract global talent.

Can I live permanently in the UAE?

Yes. Long-term residence is possible through valid residency visas such as employment visas, investor visas, partner visas or the UAE Golden Visa. However, residency is legally distinct from citizenship.

Can non-Muslims obtain UAE citizenship?

Yes, but only through exceptional discretionary grants. UAE nationality is not religion-based, and there is no general application system open to the public.

Is there a permanent citizenship pathway for expatriates?

No. There is no automatic naturalisation route for foreign residents. Long-term residence is structured through visa systems rather than conversion into nationality.

For an overview of residency pathways, see our guide on how to become a UAE resident.

How can I obtain a UAE Golden Visa?

The Golden Visa is available through qualifying categories, including:

• Property or business investors (subject to minimum thresholds)
• Entrepreneurs
• Highly skilled professionals
• Exceptional talent categories
• Humanitarian or scientific contributors

The Golden Visa remains a residency visa and does not constitute a pathway to citizenship.

Conclusion

UAE nationality by birth reflects a careful balance between tradition and gradual reform. While children of Emirati fathers automatically acquire citizenship, children of Emirati mothers face a structured and discretionary process.

With ongoing reforms, the UAE continues to expand inclusivity while preserving its sovereign approach to nationality. Understanding these distinctions is essential for families navigating citizenship matters in the UAE.

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We hope this publication clarifies the routes to UAE nationality.

For further information, explore our publications and watch educational videos by our Managing Partner, Maria Rubert.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is UAE nationality?

UAE nationality is the legal status of citizenship that grants full rights and privileges under UAE law.

Who is eligible for UAE nationality?

Eligibility is limited and governed by federal law, primarily covering individuals born to Emirati parents and exceptional cases approved by the state.

Can foreigners obtain UAE nationality?

Yes, but only under strict and discretionary legal criteria, including naturalisation or exceptional grants.

Is dual nationality allowed?

Dual nationality is generally not recognised, although limited exceptions may apply.

Does UAE nationality include residency rights?

Yes. Citizenship confers permanent residency and full legal status, unlike temporary visas.

Can UAE nationality be revoked?

Yes. Nationality may be renounced or revoked in accordance with UAE Nationality Law.