How long does it take to get citizenship in United Arab Emirates?

The naturalization process in United Arab Emirates takes 10–36 months on average (19 months typical). You need 30 years (investors/special talent: 7-20 years) before applying.

What are the steps to get United Arab Emirates citizenship?

1. Nomination/application (0.5–3 months). 2. Federal Authority review (6–24 months). 3. Cabinet approval (3–12 months)

What is the residency requirement for United Arab Emirates citizenship?

You need 30 years (investors/special talent: 7-20 years) to be eligible for naturalization in United Arab Emirates. Extremely selective.

Overview Salaries Tax Cost of Living Housing Visa Routes PR & Citizenship Healthcare Education Passport Happiness Retirement Safety

Immigration Tracker

United Arab Emirates — Citizenship Timeline

30 years (investors/special talent: 7-20 years) → 3 processing steps → passport

Average Total

19mo

Range

10–36mo

Speed Rank

#14 of 19

Residency Req.

30 years (investors/special talent: 7-20 years)

Processing Steps

1Nomination/application1mo avg (0.5–3 months)

By invitation or nomination only for most

2Federal Authority review12mo avg (6–24 months)

3Cabinet approval6mo avg (3–12 months)

Total processing time

Slow19 months average

Important Notes

Extremely selective. 2021 law allows naturalization for investors, scientists, doctors, and exceptional talent. Arabic proficiency required.

How United Arab Emirates compares

Average naturalization processing time, all 19 countries. United Arab Emirates highlighted.

Key Insight

No realistic path to citizenship for most expats

Based on 30 community-tracked data points.

Source: UAE Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security · Last updated: 2025-06

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