UAE Approves Citizenship for Expatriate Investors, Doctors, Researchers and Special Talents

UAE Approves Citizenship for Expatriate Investors, Doctors, Researchers and Special Talents

The UAE government has made law amendments that would provide the Emirati Citizenship to selected foreigners including investors, professionals and special talents while allowing receivers of the UAE passport to keep their existing citizenship. This is among the many residency reforms that the country has introduced over the past few months including provision for students in UAE to sponsor their parents and a long-term Golden Visa.

The initiative aims to appreciate the talents and competencies present in the UAE and attract bright minds to the Emirati community in a way that will contribute to the development and growth of the country. Both the residents and expatriates appreciated the amendments and stressed on the fact that besides promoting the nation’s economic development, this is a clear indication that the UAE is a country of dreams.

Emirati Citizenship – Eligibility Criteria

Investors – Residents who own a property in the UAE and investors that 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.

Doctors and Specialists – Applicants having acknowledged scientific contributions, studies and research of scientific value and a practical experience of not less than 10 years, in addition to obtaining membership in a reputable organisation in his field of specialisation.

Scientists – Active researchers in a university or research centre or in the private sector, with a practical experience of not less than 10 years in the same field. They also should have contributions in the scientific field such as winning a prestigious scientific award, or securing substantial funding for their research during the past 10 years. It is also mandatory to obtain a recommendation letter from recognised scientific institutions in the UAE.

Creative TalentsIntellectuals and artists should be pioneers in the culture and art fields and winners of one or more international award(s). A recommendation letter from related government entities is mandatory as well.

UAE Economy & Nationality Law Amendment Impact 

The amendment is likely to encourage expat investors to consider UAE as a potential destination for real estate investments as well as committing to stay in the country for a long period of time thereby boosting the economy, real estate, construction and all closely linked sectors. In addition, it will also help UAE to attract new talents in various specialised fields which will further propel the country to be one among the most progressive countries in the world, making it an ideal platform for economic growth, business development and expansion by many investors. 

Investors and international talents. If you like to learn more about the investment opportunities in the country, please feel free to reach out to Research Konnection, one of the leading market research companies in UAE known for market research and feasibility studies. 


Research Konnection assists local and international companies to set up or expand businesses in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and UAE. It is one of the best rated market research companies in Dubai specializing in Market Research, Market Entry & Feasibility Studies. Feel free to reach out to us on hello@researchkonnection.com



Author: Waqas Siddiqui
I am passionate about supporting businesses in successfully expanding in the UAE and Gulf region. I can be reached at waqas@researchkonnection.com for research inquiries.