UAE Citizenship for Indians: Eligibility, Process, and Rules

UAE is home to over 3.5 million Indians, and so the question of “Can Indians get UAE citizenship?” is being asked more frequently than ever. Some recent changes in UAE laws have introduced selective but concrete opportunities—especially for those with exceptional skills or contributions.

Whether you’re a professional, parent, or student with aspirations in the Emirates, this blog will help you understand how UAE citizenship for Indians is evolving in 2025.

1. Eligibility for UAE Citizenship for Indians:

UAE citizenship for Indians is possible under four specific routes, but it remains highly selective and largely nomination-based. Here’s a breakdown:

A. Citizenship by Descent or Birth:

• Children born to an Emirati father (regardless of the mother’s nationality or place of birth) are automatically granted citizenship.
• Children born to an Emirati mother and an unknown or stateless father may be granted citizenship under certain conditions.

B. Citizenship by Marriage:

• A foreign woman married to an Emirati man may apply for citizenship after:
  • 7 years of marriage if they have children
  • 10 years if they do not have children
• Note: Men married to Emirati women are not eligible for citizenship under this route.

C. Citizenship by Naturalization:

• This traditional route requires:
  • 30 years of legal, continuous residence in the UAE
  • Proficiency in Arabic
  • A legitimate source of income
  • Clean criminal record
• This path is rarely granted and is entirely at the discretion of UAE authorities.

D. Citizenship by Exceptional Merit (Nomination-Based):

• In 2021, the UAE introduced reforms allowing citizenship by invitation for individuals who have significantly contributed to the country. Eligible categories include:
  • Doctors and medical specialists with ≥10 years of experience and UAE recognition
  • Scientists involved in major research, with UAE institutional recommendations
  • Inventors holding patents registered in UAE or internationally
  • Creative talents, artists, and intellectuals awarded internationally
  • Investors with long-standing contributions to UAE economy
• These individuals are nominated by UAE Rulers’ and Crown Princes’ Courts, or federal entities such as the UAE Cabinet.
• Importantly, dual citizenship is allowed for this category.

2. Golden Visa vs. Citizenship: Key Differences

While UAE Golden Visa has gained popularity, it’s crucial to understand:

• The Golden Visa is not citizenship, but a renewable long-term residency (5 or 10 years)
• Indians can apply for a lifetime Golden Visa through a nomination-based pilot introduced in 2025
• Golden Visa allows family sponsorship, ease of living, and tax benefits—but does not grant passport or voting rights

New 2025 Pilot Scheme for Indians:

• Under the India–UAE CEPA agreement, skilled Indian nationals may be nominated for a lifetime Golden Visa
• Key features:
  • No investment required if nominated
  • One-time fee of AED 100,000 (~₹23.3 lakh) after approval
  • Sectors: Education, medicine, technology, maritime, and creative industries
  • Applications processed via agencies like Rayad Group, VFS Global, and One Vasco

3. Step-by-Step Process to Acquire UAE Citizenship:

Step 1: Check Eligibility Before You Apply

Before starting your application, make sure you meet the UAE citizenship eligibility criteria. This typically includes:

• Holding legal residency in the UAE
• Residing in the country for a defined number of years
• Demonstrating financial stability
• Showing a clear understanding of UAE culture, customs, and values

Once these conditions are fulfilled, you can begin by filling out the official forms provided by relevant UAE government entities.

Step 2: Prepare and Submit the Required Documents

Applicants must submit a well-organized set of documents, including:

• Valid passport and Emirates ID
• Proof of continuous UAE residency
• Police clearance certificate (criminal record must be clean)
• Documents showing your contribution to the UAE (e.g., in fields like economy, science, or culture)

Additionally, a recommendation letter may be required from recognized UAE institutions such as the Rulers’ Courts, Crown Princes’ Courts, or the Ministry of Economy.

Step 3: Application Review and Background Check

Once your application is submitted, UAE authorities will conduct a thorough review and verification process. This may include:

• Background checks
• Personal interviews
• Assessments of your contributions and eligibility

All final approvals are made by the UAE Cabinet, making this a highly selective and prestigious process.

Step 4: Take the Oath of Allegiance

If your application is approved, you will be invited to take a formal Oath of Allegiance to the United Arab Emirates. This step reflects your commitment to:

• Respecting and upholding UAE laws and traditions
• Supporting the country’s leadership and national interests
• Embracing the Emirati way of life

Step 5: Receive UAE Citizenship and Its Exclusive Benefits

Once you take the oath, you will officially become a UAE national and receive a UAE passport. Citizenship comes with several exclusive benefits, including:

• Visa-free travel to many countries
• Access to government social services and programs
• The right to own property without restrictions
• Eligibility for your children to also obtain UAE citizenship

4. UAE Citizenship Rules and Conditions (2025)

• Citizenship is granted by federal decree and not by application
• UAE authorities reserve the right to withdraw citizenship if conditions are violated
• Dual citizenship is permitted only for merit-based citizens
• Naturalized citizens must:
  • Abide by UAE laws
  • Maintain good conduct
  • Not have criminal or political offenses
• Children and spouses of exceptional citizens may also be eligible for UAE citizenship in future

Why This Matters to NRI Parents and Students?

• Students with academic and creative excellence may qualify under exceptional merit
• Parents working in sectors like healthcare, education, engineering, or science may seek long-term opportunities
• Golden Visa offers security, stability, and access to UAE’s premium infrastructure
• Dual citizenship policy gives Indian citizens a rare chance to hold two passports legally

Pitfalls to Avoid While Exploring UAE Citizenship or Golden Visa:

While UAE citizenship or long-term residency sounds appealing, many Indians fall into avoidable traps. Here’s what to steer clear of:

1. Falling for Fake Agents

Only UAE government authorities can grant citizenship—not private agents. Avoid anyone promising “guaranteed citizenship” for a fee.

Use only authorized Golden Visa service providers (e.g., VFS Global, Rayad Group). Never pay upfront without official documentation.

 2. Believing Citizenship Can Be “Bought”

UAE does not offer citizenship for sale. Golden Visas require investment but don’t grant passports or voting

 3. Submitting Incomplete or Non-Compliant Documents

Missing notarizations, non-Arabic translations, or outdated certificates can get your application rejected. Always follow the official checklist.

Get your documents attested in both India and the UAE. PCCs, educational records, and proof of achievements must be valid and clear.

 4. Applying Without Eligibility

UAE citizenship is nomination-based—not open to the public. If you’re not an inventor, scientist, artist, etc., focus on Golden Visa instead.

5. Ignoring Legal Commitments

UAE can revoke citizenship or visa if laws are broken. Stay compliant, avoid political issues, and maintain financial/legal discipline.

Though still selective, UAE citizenship for Indians is no longer an impossible dream. Through exceptional merit, federal nominations, or the India-specific Golden Visa, high-achieving NRIs now have real, structured pathways to settle permanently in the UAE. For most, the Golden Visa offers the best starting point—with citizenship a potential future milestone for the deserving.

If you’re an NRI parent or student aiming for long-term success in the UAE, stay updated on official announcements and other information before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can Indian citizens apply directly for UAE citizenship?

No. UAE citizenship is not open for public application. It is granted by nomination only, typically to individuals with exceptional contributions in fields like science, medicine, arts, or innovation.

2. Is UAE citizenship available through investment or donation?

No. UAE does not offer citizenship for sale. However, investors may be eligible for the UAE Golden Visa, which is a long-term residency—not citizenship.

3. Can I hold Indian and UAE citizenship together?

Only in exceptional merit cases where UAE allows dual citizenship. However, India does not allow dual citizenship, so you may need to give up your Indian passport if granted UAE citizenship.

4. What is the difference between UAE Golden Visa and Citizenship?

The Golden Visa is a renewable long-term residency (5–10 years or lifetime for Indians in 2025). It allows living and working in the UAE but does not grant citizenship rights such as voting or an Emirati passport.

5. Can my spouse and children get citizenship or residency with me?

For citizenship: It depends. Some exceptional merit-based citizens may have the option to sponsor family later.
For Golden Visa: Yes, you can sponsor your spouse and children under the same residency permit.

6. Is Arabic language proficiency required for UAE citizenship?

Yes, especially for naturalization-based applicants. It may not be required for exceptional merit nominations, but knowing Arabic strengthens your case.

7. What are the common reasons applications are rejected?

• Missing or invalid documents
• No proof of exceptional contribution
• Using unauthorized agents
• Not meeting the moral, legal, or financial standards
• Not being nominated by eligible UAE authorities

8. Where can I get verified updates or apply safely?

Use only UAE’s official website https://u.ae or authorized agencies like VFS Global, Rayad Group, and One Vasco.

9. Are residents permitted to hold dual nationality alongside UAE citizenship?

UAE legislation typically does not recognize dual nationality. Those who obtain UAE citizenship are generally expected to renounce their original citizenship. However, there have been instances where exceptions are made, but such cases are usually subject to the discretion of the UAE government.