The United Arab Emirates has announced new law amendments that permit certain specialists and investors, along with their families, to acquire UAE citizenship.
UAE Vice-President and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who also serves as the ruler of Dubai, announced the news on Saturday via Twitter.
The official said the amendments allow granting UAE citizenship to investors and specialized 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,” he said.
Foreigners eligible for acquiring UAE citizenship will be nominated by the UAE cabinet, in addition to local Emirati courts and executive councils, “under clear criteria for each category,” Sheikh Mohammed explained.
Those eligible for the nationality and end up receiving it according to this law can also keep their existing citizenship.
Last year, the UAE granted long-term “golden” visas to numerous investors and prominent specialists in a variety of fields, who would help stimulate the economy and boost production.
The country’s economy has been damaged by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the plummeting oil prices. The shaky economic situation has driven many expatriates out of the UAE.