The people of Dubai are from different community that is composed of individuals from various cultures and nationalities. This includes UAE citizens, known as Emiratis, as well as a significant number of expatriates from around the globe. If you’re wondering what it means to be Emirati or what are people from Dubai called, the answers to these questions are outlined in this blog on indubaimall.
What are people from Dubai called?
Dubai, a city known for its luxury and modernity, has transformed from a desert town into a global metropolis, attracting people from all around the world. This has created a unique and complex social environment. What are people from Dubai called? The people who live in Dubai are sometimes called Dubaians or Emiratis. The word ‘Emirati’ is used for citizens of all seven emirates that make up the UAE, and it’s also used for people who live in Dubai. Most of Dubai’s population consists of foreigners, with only around 12% of the 11 million people being Emiratis. To become a citizen of Dubai, someone must be born in the UAE and have Arab roots. In reality, this means that only about one out of every ten people living in the country are Emiratis.
Citizenship and Nationality in Dubai
Dubai’s ethnic diversity is a significant part of what makes the city unique. People often ask questions such as Which nationalities are present in Dubai? Are people from Dubai Arab? The majority of Dubai people nationality and population consists of foreigners, with the largest groups coming from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and the Philippines. There are only a few thousand Poles living in Dubai. Alongside the Asian communities mentioned earlier, there are also people from Europe, America, and other Middle Eastern countries, including Iran. While many residents of Dubai are not from the UAE, not all residents are foreigners. The answer is no; there are also Emiratis living in Dubai.
UAE citizenship laws and who qualifies
In January 2021, the UAE Cabinet approved new changes to the country’s Citizenship Law. The new laws allow certain foreign residents to apply for UAE citizenship if they meet certain conditions. This is good news for expatriates who have lived in the UAE for a long time. Now, they can become citizens and enjoy the benefits of holding a UAE passport. The changes also permit dual nationality. This means you don’t have to give up your original nationality or passport. You can have both a UAE passport and another country’s passport at the same time. The UAE government has acknowledged the value of diversity and inclusiveness, and the new nationality laws help make the country more welcoming. These laws show that if you work hard for a country, you can consider it your home. The new laws in UAE also let the government make the best use of the skills and talents of expatriates. At the same time, the goverment draw in the most skilled workers, investors, and innovative minds from around the world to help the nation grow and develop.
How citizenship affects identity and terminology
In Dubai, citizenship plays a significant role in shaping identity and terminology within a highly diverse society. Because Emirati citizenship is limited, most residents will be identified primarily through nationality, expatriate status, or regional background rather than formal civic belonging. Terms such as “expat,” “resident,” and “local” reflect social distinctions that are related to legal rights, cultural expectations, and long-term security. Emirati citizens often experience a stronger sense of heritage and collective identity, while expatriates navigate multiple identities that are influenced by temporary residency.
FAQs
What is the difference between a Dubaian and Emirati?
A Dubaian is someone who is from or lives in Dubai, whether they are Emirati or from another country. It’s not an official legal term. An Emirati, on the other hand, is someone who is a citizen of the United Arab Emirates and has all the rights that come with being a national. All the people who are born and live in Dubai are Emirati, but most of the population in Dubai are expatriates. These expatriates are often called Dubaians even though they are not Emirati. So, “Dubaian” refers to someone’s place of residence, while a person from UAE is called “Emirati” and it refers to their nationality.
Are all people living in Dubai Emiratis?
Emirati nationals make up a smaller part of the population in Dubai. There are about 1.44 million UAE citizens, which is 11.5% of the total population. On the other hand, expatriates account for roughly 88.5% of the UAE’s population in 2025, which means there are around 11.06 million foreign residents.
Can foreigners become Emirati citizens?
One way to obtain UAE citizenship is through naturalization after residing in the country for a period of 30 years. Individuals holding a residence permit may also qualify for citizenship if they marry an Emirati national and apply for it. Additionally, the UAE government may grant citizenship by exceptional merit.
