Artists and intellectuals can now obtain UAE citizenship

The UAE on Saturday officially amended its nationality laws in order to attract some of the top talent that the world has to offer to the country, including leaders in the cultural space.

Those with creative talent, including but not limited to intellectuals and artists, are one of the groups that will receive the opportunity, in an effort to “appreciate the talents” of those in the country as well as bringing in more from the international community.

Those who will be granted citizenship, according to UAE state news agency WAM, are those who are pioneers in the culture and art fields and winners of one or more international award from a reputable body. In addition, they will require a recommendation letter from a related government entity.

Other categories that now qualify to obtain the UAE passport include investors, doctors, specialists, inventors and scientists. In addition, citizenship will also be granted to the spouse and children of those nominated. The amendments also allow for new citizens to retain their current nationality.

Acquiring citizenship will be processed through the Rulers and Crown Prince’s Courts, Executive Councils, and the Cabinet based on the nominations from federal entities, according to WAM.

UAE citizenship has a host of benefits, including the right to establish or own commercial entities and properties. To qualify, nominees will be required to swear an oath of allegiance, commit to abide by Emirati laws, and officially inform the respective government agency if they acquire or lose any other citizenship. Citizenship can be withdrawn if conditions are breached.

The UAE cabinet, local Emiri courts & executive councils will nominate those eligible for the citizenship under clear criteria set for each category. The law allows receivers of the UAE passport to keep their existing citizenship.

— HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) January 30, 2021

Each category will have its own specific requirements. Investors, for example, are required to own a property in the UAE. Doctors and specialist must specialize in a unique scientific discipline that is highly needed in the country, and they must have acknowledged contributions to the scientific community, as well as published studies, research and practical experience of at least 10 years, and have membership in a reputable organization in their field.

“We adopted law amendments that allow granting the UAE citizenship to investors, specialised talents and professionals including scientists, doctors, engineers, artists, authors and their families. The new directives aim to attract talents that contribute to our development journey,” wrote Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Prime Minister and Vice President of the UAE and Dubai Ruler, on Twitter.

The move will help the UAE become even more of a global cultural hub, according to experts.

“It’s another milestone that comes along a transformation path of the UAE as a financial, trade and cultural hub, allowing for further avenues of economic growth,” Mohamed Abu Basha, head of macroeconomic research at Cairo-based EFG Hermes, told Bloomberg.

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