Last Updated on: 8th July 2023, 08:26 pm
UAE And Saudi Arabia Could Soon Grant Citizenship To Expats
The Economist predicted in its latest report that the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia could soon grant citizenship to expatriates as both countries prepare for an oil-free future.
Around 90% (10 million) of expatriates live in the United Arab Emirates alone, many of whom have been living in the country without citizenship for several years. It even hopes to attract 3 to 5 million more people in the future.
As the UAE and Saudi Arabia move away from oil, expatriates could start demanding more rights, including the right to citizenship.
The United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia currently produce 14 million barrels of oil per day, but that is likely to change, so adjusting to an oil-free economy is important.
For example, Saudi women weren’t allowed to drive, but now they can. As a result, the female workforce has increased from 17% in 2017 to 37% this year. Similarly, restaurants were also allowed to play music.
As the Gulf states move away from oil, granting citizenship to expatriates could become a key strategy to attract and retain a foreign workforce.
Also Read: Fasting Hours And Iftar Timings Confirmed for UAE Ramadan 2023
