Executive Order 2021 Legislative Landmark
In January 2021, the UAE Cabinet headed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum approved amendments to the Executive Regulation of the Federal Law concerning Nationality and Passports under Executive Order 2021. For the first time in UAE history, foreign investors, doctors, specialists, scientists, inventors, and intellectuals can be granted Emirati citizenship and a UAE passport while retaining their original home country nationality.
For individuals who do not qualify for direct citizenship nomination, the UAE offers premier long-term self-sponsored options such as the 10-Year UAE Golden Visa and the 5-Year Green Visa.
Citizenship Nomination Categories (Executive Order 2021)
- Investors: Must own real estate property in the UAE or hold an approved commercial patent.
- Doctors & Specialists: Must specialize in a unique scientific discipline with 10+ years active experience.
- Scientists: Must be active researchers in university/R&D center with international awards.
- Inventors: Must hold one or more patents registered with the WIPO or UAE Ministry of Economy.
Passport Mobility Highlights
| Global Mobility Rank: | #1 Passport Worldwide |
| Visa-Free Destinations: | 180+ Countries |
| Dual Citizenship: | Legally Permitted |
Interlinked UAE Compliance Portals
Frequently Asked Questions (Citizenship Rules)
Yes. Under Executive Order 2021 amendments to the UAE Nationality Law, foreign investors, doctors, specialists, inventors, scientists, and exceptional talents can be nominated for UAE citizenship by the Rulers' Courts or Cabinet.
Yes. Under Executive Order 2021 amendments, foreign nationals granted UAE citizenship by nomination are legally permitted to retain their original nationality and passport.
No. UAE citizenship cannot be applied for directly via open public application. It is granted strictly by nomination through the Rulers' Courts, Executive Councils of the Emirates, or the UAE Cabinet.
Expats can secure long-term residency via the 10-Year Golden Visa (for AED 2M real estate or AED 30k salary) or the 5-Year Green Visa (for freelancers earning AED 15k/month).
UAE Government VerifiedOfficial Primary Reference Source
• UAE Official Government Portal (Nationality & Citizenship Law): u.ae/citizenship