UAE citizenship is granted exclusively through government nomination — there is no open application process. Candidates must be nominated by an official Emirati entity (Cabinet, Ruler's Court, or Executive Council) and approved by the Cabinet. Eligible categories include investors, doctors/specialists, scientists, inventors, and intellectuals/artists. The Golden Visa provides supporting evidence but does not guarantee citizenship.
No open application — nomination only by Rulers' Courts, Executive Councils, or Cabinet. Categories: investors (property owners), doctors/specialists, scientists with international recognition, inventors with UAE patents, intellectuals/artists with distinguished records. Dual citizenship permitted since 2021 amendment. Golden Visa (5-10yr residency) is a supporting factor but NOT a pathway to citizenship. Final approval rests with the UAE President through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA).
- Dubai Virtual Working Programme (digital nomad visa)
- UAE Golden Visa (Entrepreneur) (entrepreneur)
- UAE Golden Visa (Specialist/Professional) (economic)
- UAE Green Visa (Freelancer) (freelancer)
- UAE Startup Visa (startup)
- UAE Golden Visa (Investor) (golden visa)