Emirati diaspora
The Emirati diaspora comprises Emirati citizens who have emigrated from the United Arab Emirates to other countries, and people of Emirati descent born or residing in other countries.
Background
A part of the worldwide Arab diaspora, the Emirati diaspora is very small, mainly because of the adequate opportunities provided to citizens in the UAE, removing the need for many to live and work in other countries. Many UAE locals also prefer not to work in menial jobs, opting for well paid government jobs instead. However, some skilled Emirati nationals move abroad to avail better work opportunities or gain valuable experience. According to one report, two out of three UAE nationals who moved abroad tended to have skilled credentials. In response to this, and with the growing number of positions in both the public and private sectors in the UAE over the past few years, the UAE government has promoted Emiratisation and started an initiative called "Return2Home" as part of a reverse brain drain, encouraging job opportunities for expatriate Emiratis returning home.In addition, many Emiratis go abroad for purposes such as pursuing education in foreign universities, tourism, medical treatment or conducting business. For many Emirati students, studying abroad is an experience of broadening their horizons, international experience and work opportunities, while also reinforcing and keeping most their cultural values.
Most of the small Emirati diaspora is concentrated in the Middle East, North America, parts of Europe and Australia. The UAE maintains an extensive diplomatic presence and network of embassies throughout the world.
Emirati nationality law does not offer dual citizenship, hence those who become citizens of other countries have to give up their UAE nationality. The giving up of UAE citizenship is generally frowned upon in Emirati society. Government figures show that around 250 Emiratis became British citizens between 1990 and 2012, while a few others also gained American and Western citizenships over the years. Most such cases are typically of those who have been settled in their resident countries for long periods, or have married foreign spouses.
Population distribution
Middle East
Many UAE nationals live, study or work in the Arab states of the Arabian Gulf which form the GCC. This is made easier by the fact that citizens of GCC states enjoy freedom of movement throughout all the GCC member countries, including the right to reside and work, with almost no restrictions.South Asia
A small number of UAE nationals, including students, are also present in South Asia, mainly in India.and Pakistan