Created: Jul 10, 2025 | Updated: Sep 1, 2025
The journey to obtaining UAE citizenship for Irish nationals involves understanding the legal requirements, necessary documents, and application steps. This guide offers an in-depth look at what is required and how Translayte can assist with certified translations essential for the application process.
While Irish citizens cannot simply apply for UAE citizenship based on their nationality, they can become citizens through specific pathways, including naturalisation after long-term residency, marriage to a UAE national, or through investment and exceptional merit. To begin, an Irish citizen must first obtain a UAE residence visa, typically by securing employment, investing in a business, or purchasing property. After meeting certain requirements, they can then apply for citizenship
UAE citizenship can be obtained through several pathways, including:
Naturalization by Long-Term Residency
Foreigners may apply for UAE citizenship after residing lawfully in the UAE for approximately 30 years (and fewer years for those of Arab descent), provided they demonstrate good conduct, financial stability, proficiency in Arabic, and integration into Emirati society.
Citizenship by Marriage
A foreign woman married to a UAE citizen may qualify for citizenship after seven years of marriage if they have children, or after ten years if they do not, provided they are legally registered and of good repute.
Citizenship by Exceptional Merit (Nominated)
Based on 2021 law amendments, individuals such as investors, doctors, scientists, inventors, intellectuals, and creative talents may be eligible for citizenship nomination. The process is discretionary and administered by government authorities.
Learn more about the UAE citizenship
The legal requirements for Irish nationals seeking Irish citizenship include:
UAE citizenship is primarily based on jus sanguinis — that is, citizenship by descent. Children born to an Emirati father, whether in or outside of the UAE, are automatically citizens. In certain special cases, a child born to an Emirati mother and a stateless or unidentified father may also qualify.
A foreign woman married to an Emirati man can apply for citizenship after:
Eligibility typically requires valid residency in the UAE and maintaining a clean legal record.
Learn how to get married in Dubai as a foreigner
Foreign nationals may be considered for naturalisation if they have lived continuously in the UAE for approximately 30 years, possess a clean criminal record, are fluent in Arabic, and have a stable source of income. Shorter pathways exist for individuals of Arab descent or those meeting other specific criteria.
According to a 2021 amendment to the nationality law, selected professionals, including investors, doctors, scientists, inventors, intellectuals, and creative talents, may be nominated for citizenship by high-level UAE bodies (e.g., the Rulers’ Courts or the Cabinet). Each category has specific criteria (e.g., patents for inventors, research awards for scientists, long professional experience for doctors, etc.).
Since 2021, the UAE has allowed individuals who receive citizenship through exceptional merit to retain their original nationality, reflecting a more flexible approach to dual citizenship. Generally, most naturalised citizens may now hold dual nationality, subject to the regulations of their country of origin.
Citizenship is not applied for directly. Instead, it is granted through nomination by federal bodies, such as the Executive Councils or the Cabinet. Applications and vetting, based on the above pathways, are managed by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP). Final authorisation comes from the Cabinet. Approved recipients must take an oath of allegiance to the UAE.
If you’re an Irish citizen seeking UAE citizenship through naturalisation, marriage, or special nomination, you’ll need to prepare a set of key documents. All documents must be in Arabic or officially translated by a certified provider. Below is a breakdown of the most commonly required documentation:
A birth certificate showing the place of birth and parentage. Must be certified and translated into Arabic.
For those married to a UAE citizen, the marriage certificate must be submitted. Translations must be certified and officially recognised in the UAE.
A police clearance certificate from the UAE. You may also be asked to submit clearance from other countries where you’ve lived. Translation and legalisation may be required; services like Translayte can assist.
Bank statements, employment contracts, or proof of business ownership/investment. Demonstrates you can support yourself in the UAE.
Arabic proficiency is typically a requirement for naturalisation. You may be asked to demonstrate basic reading, writing, or conversational skills.
Supporting evidence of integration into Emirati society, such as community involvement or long-term residence. Character references or letters of good conduct may be required.
All non-Arabic documents must be translated by a certified translator. Providers like Translayte offer services accepted by government offices in the UAE.
Tip: Ensure all documents are up to date, notarised where applicable, and properly translated. Incomplete or incorrectly translated documentation is one of the top reasons for application delays.
Citizenship is conceivable only if you qualify under specific categories such as naturalisation, marriage to an Emirati, or outstanding merit. Eligibility criteria include legal residency (typically 30 years), proficiency in Arabic, a clean legal record, financial stability, or contributions to UAE society.
You cannot apply directly; citizenship is only granted upon nomination by UAE government entities, such as the Ruler’s Court, Executive Council, or Cabinet.
Once nominated, documentation may be required via the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP). Common documents include:
The nomination is followed by intense scrutiny, including:
If approved, you will be required to take an oath of allegiance to the UAE. Your name is entered into the nationality register, and you become eligible to receive a UAE passport and Emirates ID.
If you are applying for UAE citizenship through naturalisation, marriage, or special nomination, it is essential that all foreign-language documents are translated into Arabic, not English or Irish. The UAE government requires certified Arabic translations for documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, police clearance records, and academic qualifications.
Translayte provides certified translations that are legally recognised in the UAE, ensuring your documents meet all formatting, legalisation, and compliance standards. Using an authorised translator helps avoid delays or rejections during the vetting process.
Certified, sworn, notarised and legalised translations, accepted globally.
Get the latest, relevant travel guides and resources for drivers license, education abroad, citizenship, marriage, and visa.
Certified, sworn, notarised and legalised translations, accepted globally.
Order Your TranslationGet an instant quote and send us your project requirements. We have qualified translators ready at short notice.
Check Prices & OrderAlternatively, send us a message. We promise a quick response.