ABU DHABI // The President, Sheikh Khalifa, has granted citizenship to 500 children of Emirati mothers.
The decision reflects the President’s “keenness to achieve greater stability and provide a decent life to them” reported the state news agency Wam.
Two years ago, on the 40th National Day, Sheikh Khalifa first announced that children of Emirati mothers and foreign fathers would be granted citizenship on their 18th birthday, as long as they met certain conditions.
Those who believe they meet the requirements need to go to the Ministry of Interior’s naturalisation and residency department, which has set up a special section.
Applicants need to present a copy of their passport, and copies of their mother’s passport and family book.
Last year, more than 1,000 people over 18 with Emirati mothers were granted full citizenship.
They are granted the same rights as any other Emirati regarding education, health benefits and employment.
Previously, citizenship could only be passed on through a father.
The decision was made by a Presidential decree.
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