Does A Child Born In Dubai Get Citizenship?

Many people wonder if a child born in Dubai can get UAE citizenship. With so many expats living and working in the UAE, it’s a common question for families planning to settle here. Unlike some countries, which grant citizenship just by being born there, the UAE doesn’t follow this rule. Just because a baby is born in Dubai doesn’t mean they automatically become UAE citizens. In this blog, we’ll explore the details of UAE citizenship for children born in Dubai. From the main rules to special cases and long-term residency options, we’ll cover everything parents need to know about their child’s legal status in the UAE.

Understanding UAE Citizenship Laws

The UAE’s citizenship policy differs from that of some other countries. Instead of granting citizenship just because someone is born in the country (called jus soli or "right of birth"), the UAE follows jus sanguinis, meaning citizenship is passed down through blood ties. In other words, a child born in the UAE doesn’t automatically become a citizen unless their parents are UAE nationals. The parents’ nationality, not the place of birth, decides if a child can be a UAE citizen.

Does a Child Born in Dubai Get Citizenship?

Being born in Dubai doesn’t mean a child will get UAE citizenship. Unlike some countries, the UAE doesn’t grant automatic citizenship based on birthplace alone. A child generally needs at least one Emirati parent to become a UAE citizen. Without an Emirati mother or father, a child born in Dubai would not qualify for UAE citizenship.

Citizenship for Expat Children Born in Dubai

Children born to expat parents in Dubai aren’t eligible for UAE citizenship, even if they are born on UAE soil. Instead, their nationality usually follows that of their parents' home country. Expat children can get a residency visa tied to their parents' sponsorship for residency. This allows them to stay and live in the UAE as long as their parents have valid residency status, making it easier for families to settle and enjoy life in Dubai.

Special Cases for UAE Citizenship

In rare and exceptional cases, the UAE does grant citizenship to specific individuals. This is usually reserved for people who’ve made significant contributions, like distinguished professionals, investors, or long-term residents who meet specific UAE policy requirements. These cases are exceptions, though, and they don’t depend on whether a person was born in Dubai. Citizenship is granted selectively and is not commonly available for most residents or expat-born children.

What Nationality Will a Child Born in Dubai Receive?

A child born in Dubai will generally receive their parents' nationality, according to their home country's laws. This means the child’s nationality usually follows the rules of the parents' country, not the UAE. Different countries have different policies on nationality, so the exact process can vary. For instance, some countries automatically grant citizenship to children of citizens, even if they’re born abroad, while others might have additional requirements. So, expat parents in Dubai should check their own country’s rules to understand how they affect their child’s nationality.

How to Obtain UAE Citizenship for a Child

While it’s rare, there are a few possible pathways for a child to obtain UAE citizenship eventually. In some cases, the UAE may grant citizenship based on notable achievements, societal contributions, or long-term residence. These pathways are limited and usually require government approval, making them uncommon for most families.

Recently, the UAE has introduced more options for long-term residency, like the Golden Visa, which can provide stability for expat families. Though it doesn’t lead to citizenship, this type of visa allows families to live in the UAE for extended periods, offering a sense of security without needing UAE nationality.

Conclusion

A child born in Dubai doesn’t automatically get UAE citizenship. Instead, their nationality usually depends on their parent's home country. While there are rare cases where the UAE grants citizenship, these are limited and not based on birth alone. However, families can explore long-term residency options to enjoy a stable life in the UAE. Understanding these rules helps parents quickly and confidently plan their child’s future in Dubai.

What happens when a baby is born in Dubai?

A baby born in Dubai doesn’t automatically get UAE citizenship. The child usually inherits the parents' nationality based on the laws of their home country.

What happens if a tourist has a baby in Dubai?

If a tourist has a baby in Dubai, the child will not receive UAE citizenship. The baby will typically have the parents' nationality, and the parents will need to apply for a residency visa for the child.

What are the advantages of a child being born in Dubai?

The UAE offers a safe, modern environment with good healthcare and education for children.