The United Arab Emirates announced on Saturday plans to grant citizenship to some foreigners in the oil-rich country, part of a campaign to boost its economy in the wake of the coronavirus crisis.
The announcement made by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai who also serves as the autocratic state's vice president and prime minister, said the citizenship offer could apply to scientists, physicians, authors, artists, and engineers including their families.
"The UAE cabinet, local Emiri courts and executive councils will nominate those who are eligible for the citizenship grant under clear criteria set for each category," Sheikh Mohammed said in a social media post.
A major producer of oil and gas, the UAE's economy has been badly affected by the global health crisis and falling oil prices, prompting tens of thousands of expatriates to leave. UAE is home to the Middle East's finance and travel destinations Abu Dhabi and Dubai and millions of expatriate residents.
Foreign residents comprise more than 80% of the Gulf state's population, made up of seven sheikhdoms and have been the pillar of the UAE economy for many years but have lacked a clear policy on citizenship, including if they were born and raised in the country.
According to Sheikh Mohammed, the main objective was to attract those who could "contribute to our development journey." No application procedure is required; instead, individuals would be selected for citizenship by UAE officials, he said. The UAE cabinet would then deliberate on whether or not to approve them.
The UAE previously granted citizenship to Palestinians and others who helped establish the country's government after its founding in 1971. Others have been given citizenship over time as well.
Last year, the UAE extended its "Golden visa system" - which gave a 10-year residency in the Gulf state - to certain specialized degree-holders, professionals and others.
Until now, citizenship in the Gulf state and some other emirates has been reserved for foreigners in special cases, including for service to the state, but these revisions will formalize and broaden the proposed citizenship process.
The new policy would enable specialized experts and foreign businessmen to establish a deeper connection in the country, Abu Dhabi-based newspaper The National said.
The UAE is home to more than 9 million people, with only a tenth of the local citizens. In November, the government announced new measures to amend the country's Islamic laws, allowing unmarried couples to live together, easing alcohol prohibitions, and criminalizing so-called "honor killings."
