Five UAE cricketers granted citizenship ahead of major tournaments in 2026

Five cricketers received UAE citizenship through naturalisation, allowing them to represent the national team in 2026.

Naturalisation grants for UAE cricketers Five cricketers have been granted UAE citizenship through naturalisation, giving them the right to represent the national team. This follows a presidential decree in 2018 that enabled athletes in other sports, such as football, rugby, and judo, to receive citizenship. Previously, only expatriate cricketers who met ICC residency rules could play for the UAE. Now, these five players can compete internationally as citizens with UAE passports. ## Kumar’s journey to UAE representation Kumar expressed his deep gratitude upon receiving citizenship and the chance to represent the UAE at the international level. 'From the day I landed in the UAE, it was my dream to represent the country at the international level,' he said. 'Now I am getting this chance, and all thanks to the UAE, the support staff, and the support I have received from playing domestic and club cricket.' He added, 'They have looked after us really well. The management has been supportive throughout the journey. I am grateful to the board and the entire cricket fraternity. I am really excited to represent this country and do well for them.' ## Khuzaima’s recognition and experience Khuzaima shared his excitement about the opportunity to play for the UAE, calling it an incredible feeling. 'If you get this opportunity to represent your country, it is a feeling that is out of this world for any player,' he said. 'The country is trusting you and giving you this chance, so I think you are the lucky one.' He highlighted his past three years in UAE domestic cricket, including the last two seasons in ILT20 and Abu Dhabi T10. 'It has been a great experience to play with international players. Now I have this chance to play for the UAE. I am very grateful to the Emirates Cricket Board for supporting me.'