Growing demand for second passport among UAE expats

Shutterstock [For illustration]

UAE residents are increasingly opting for second passports, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic.

For most applicants, it's the ease of travel and global mobility that makes a second citizenship an attractive option.

Nicholas Iredale, Group Business Development Manager of AAA Associates Immigration Services told ARN News that it's become a necessity for those who consider the freedom to travel - whether for business or leisure - an essential part of their lives.

Iredale also explained the other benefits that a second passport offers. "It opens doors to a better lifestyle and business opportunities," he said.

Meanwhile, the growing demand for Citizenship by Investment programmes doesn't seem to be standing in the way of the UAE's own golden visa scheme.

Nicholas Iredale emphasised how UAE residents are mainly using a second passport for the ease of travel and not to move to another country.

He says the second citizenship market's clientele has a different set of priorities.

The changes in the world due to the COVID-19 pandemic, rapid digitalisation, and various old and new conflicts, have put the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) industry in the spotlight.

If the current expansion rate remains steady, the sector is expect to hit USD 100 billion by 2025.