The Landmark Initiative towards Emirati Nationality
The country has proven itself to be a land of infinite opportunities and possibilities for expatriates from all over the world. The UAE has been the center of economic growth, technological advancements, modern infrastructure, and cosmopolitan culture. This has attracted the attention of a large variety of investors, entrepreneurs, professionals, and highly skilled workers.
In the past, obtaining Emirati nationality was nearly impossible for expatriates or foreigners. However, things took a positive turn in 2021. You can learn more with our lawyers and legal consultants. Our lawyers and legal consultants are experienced legal professionals and recruited by a recognized law firm.
A Historic Initiative
The government of the UAE introduced a historic initiative. They introduced a remarkable amendment to the UAE citizenship laws. This has opened new doors for foreigners and expatriates in the UAE. After this landmark move, they can potentially acquire Emirati nationality under certain predefined conditions. Nonetheless, the doors have opened for selected foreigners who can apply for the Emirati nationality.
Foreigners Obtaining Emirati Nationality and Federal Laws
This move represents a historic reform that embodies the UAE’s ideology of evolution, acceptance, and tolerance. The UAE still retains its basic policy but tries to retain the global talent and skilled professionals inside the UAE. Besides, it also boosts long-term investment in the country.
UAE has a robust legal framework that is governed by federal and local laws and regulations. The Emirati nationality primarily took references from UAE federal laws No. 17 of 1972 and Federal Law Decree No. 8 of 2021.
Historic Background for Emirati Citizenship
Previously, the UAE citizenship law was limited and conservative. This is mainly governed by the Federal Law No. 17 of 1972. The law primarily focuses on very strict conditions for acquiring nationality in the UAE. It mainly favors those individuals who have strong ancestral ties in the Emirates. However, the historic amendments made in 2021 represent a change in the UAE’s policy towards the UAE citizenship laws. The Federal Law Decree No. 8 of 2021 has permitted a radical shift from the traditional approach.
This displays the departure from a conservation perspective, replaced by a rather neutral approach. This will allow naturalization of selected categories, especially for expatriates and foreigners in the UAE. They do not need to renounce their original nationality to seek Emirati citizenship.
Eligibility Criteria for Emirati Citizenship in UAE:
Not everyone is eligible to apply. It includes predefined individuals who qualified for Emirati nationality. It includes investors, doctors, skilled individuals, specialists, scientists, researchers, Creative Individuals, inventors, Artists, and more.
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The foreign investors who invest in the UAE economy and own property may be considered for it. Added that the investment must be substantial and heavy. Typically, it is verified from the government records. The demand for doctors, specialists, and healthcare professionals is very high in the UAE, especially post-pandemic. Therefore, the UAE medical authorities must recognize the in-demand specialties and provide a proven record of accomplishment of excellence for eligibility.
The scientists and researchers in the fields of science and technology who have achieved accomplishments can acquire Emirati citizenship. Those individuals with patents and peer-reviewed publications in reputable journals can easily get nominated. The foreign nationals who are inventors and have a registered patent fall under this category. They can contribute to the UAE economy and thus have a crucial role in technological growth and development.
Creative Individuals like artists, writers, painters, athletes, and intellectuals who have unique skills and international acclaim and contributions qualify for Emirati cultural advancement and growth.
Legal Conditions for Applicants to apply for UAE citizenship
The applicants should fulfill the legal prerequisites, which include good conduct. Under a good conduct certificate, there should be no criminal record in the UAE or abroad. They must be proficient in the Arabic language. This demonstrates the integration into the UAE cultural and social atmosphere.
Additionally, the renunciation clause is part of it that reflects that a foreigner can keep a dual nationality. The cabinet reserves the discretion to allow for dual nationality.
Moreover, the legal residency must be proven for a predefined period. Alongside, an oath of allegiance is required upon acceptance of Emirati citizenship. This eligibility criterion is subject to review by the official authorities of the UAE.
The recommendation by UAE authorities should be supported by official documentation. It involves UAE authorities and agencies like the Ministry of Interior, Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA), UAE Cabinet, and other concerned local Emirati institutions.
The application process is not open to direct submission. However, the candidates and applicants must be nominated by the UAE Rulers, the Crown Princes’ Courts, or the Cabinet. Therefore, the final approval lies with the President of the UAE.
Top Lawyers and Top Law Firms
It is a sensitive matter to apply for citizenship. The laws and regulations are very strict, and adherence to the rules is mandatory. Top-tier law firms in Dubai have a range of competent lawyers and well-versed attorneys who can offer legal advice to foreigners and expatriates seeking Emirati citizenship.
The lawyers in Dubai are well aware of the historic and current UAE citizenship laws that make decision-making much easier for them. They are directly involved in drafting formal applications, documents, and cover letters needed for Emirati citizenship. The attorneys or lawyers also review the eligibility criteria, legal conditions to apply under every category, and much more. There is a liaison between the lawyers in Dubai and the government institutions and authorities working inside the country.
Thus, they established law firms in Dubai that offer lucrative strategic legal consultancy to investors, inventors, and highly skilled professionals who desire to qualify for it. There are lots of application challenges that must be promptly addressed. The proficient attorney in Dubai will suggest the legal remedies that address the delays, rejections, requests, halts, and natural process of it.
The reliable law firms in Dubai ensure that applicants present the strongest case by ensuring legal compliance with the legal conditions.
