UAE's Commitment to Protecting the Rights of Its Citizens: The Right to Nationality and Acquiring Emirati Nationality

 

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a country that is committed to protecting the rights of its citizens, including their right to nationality. The UAE Constitution guarantees this right, along with the right of citizens to acquire Emirati nationality. However, nationality can only be revoked in accordance with the law.

To regulate the granting of Emirati nationality, Federal Law No. 17 of 1972 was enacted. This law sets out the conditions and requirements for acquiring Emirati nationality, and it also establishes the procedures for revoking nationality. In 2021, the UAE made major amendments to the Nationality Law, which included changes to the implementing regulations of the Federal Law on Nationality and Passports. 

The recent amendments to the Nationality Law have allowed for the granting of Emirati nationality to many non-citizens who are eligible under the law, along with their families. This is a significant step towards inclusivity and fairness, as it ensures that those who have contributed to the UAE's growth and development have the opportunity to become citizens of the country they call home.

The new amendments also allow the applicant to retain their current nationality, which is an important consideration for those who may have ties to other countries or who do not wish to renounce their previous citizenship. 

One important aspect of the UAE's approach to nationality is that no cases of statelessness or Bedoun (stateless persons) have been observed in the country. This is a testament to the government's commitment to ensuring that all individuals have a nationality and are not left in a stae of legal limbo.

Moreover, the recent amendments to the nationality laws allow for the processing of any individual case or application related to obtaining Emirati nationality. This ensures that the government can consider each case on its own merits and make a decision that is fair and just. 

Overall, the UAE's approach to nationality is one that is both pragmatic and compassionate. By ensuring that all individuals have a nationality and have the opportunity to become citizens, the UAE is setting an example for other nations to follow. The recent amendments to the Nationality Law demonstrate the country's commitment to inclusivity and fairness, and the government's willingness to process individual cases underscores its dedication to upholding the rights of all individuals.