In 2022, a new federal law was enacted to allow unmarried mothers to be issued birth certificates for their children born in the UAE.

[8] As per Human Rights Watch, many Emirati mothers have complained that the application process can be confusing and could take years for the authorities to respond.

[17][18] The UAE's Prime Minister and ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum stated that this amendment to the law was made to attract and retain individuals with specialised skills including scientists, doctors, engineers, creative talent like artists and authors along with their families.

The applicant also need to have contributed to research of scientific value, have a practical experience of 10 years or more, and have obtained a membership to a notable organisation in their field of specialisation.

[19] Subject to additional criteria, investors and professionals in healthcare, engineering, science and art are eligible for permanent residency.

The permanent residency scheme will be overseen by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA)[20] and is expected to generate foreign investment, encourage entrepreneurship, and attract engineers, scientists and exceptional students.