Overview
- Country
- United Arab Emirates
- Program
- UAE Citizenship by Nomination
- Local name
- الجنسية الإماراتية بالترشيح
- Type
- Exceptional Merit
- Status
- Active
- Dual citizenship
- Allowed
- Visa-free countries
- 188 destinations
- Passport rank
- #2 (Henley Index)
UAE citizenship under the 2021 provisions is granted through nomination via the Rulers' and Crown Princes' Courts, Executive Councils, or the Cabinet based on nominations from federal entities. Eligible categories include investors, doctors, specialists, inventors, scientists, intellectuals, artists, and people with creative talents; spouses and children may also acquire nationality. The provisions allow successful nominees to retain their existing nationality. The Golden Visa is a separate residence status and does not itself confer citizenship.
Fees and costs
No fees listed for this program.
Eligibility and requirements
- Police clearance not required
- Medical exam not required
- Oath required
Family
- Dependents
- Allowed
- Spouse
- Included
- Spouse eligible
- Spouse of eligible person also qualifies
Passport and mobility
- Passport rank
- #2 (Henley Index)
- Visa-free access
- 188 countries
- Passport validity
- 10 years
- EU citizenship
- No
- Schengen access
- No
How to apply
- Apply from abroad
- Must apply in-country
- Application type
- Nomination
- Official website
- u.ae
- Legal basis
- Federal Law No. 17 of 1972 Regarding Nationality and Passports; Executive Regulation (Cabinet Resolution No. 2 of 1972, as amended)
Notes and caveats
Nomination route only: the government portal directs candidates to the Rulers' and Crown Princes' Courts, Executive Councils, or Cabinet, based on nominations from federal entities. Category-specific conditions include UAE property ownership for investors; relevant scientific specialization, contributions, 10 years' experience and professional membership for doctors/specialists; 10 years' active research experience and a UAE institution recommendation for scientists; approved patents and a Ministry of Economy recommendation for inventors; and distinction, an international award and government recommendation for intellectuals and creative talent. Nominees must swear an oath, comply with UAE laws, and notify the government entity if they acquire or lose another citizenship. Spouses and children may be included. Withdrawal is possible for breach of grant conditions or obligations. The Golden Visa is a separate residence program and does not itself confer citizenship.
Also in United Arab Emirates
Last verified Oct 9, 2026 Source