The dual nationality question is one of the most common concerns stopping Arab investors from moving forward with Turkish citizenship. “Will I lose my original citizenship?” — the answer depends entirely on your home country’s law. This article provides the complete breakdown.
Turkey’s Position on Dual Nationality
Turkey permits dual citizenship without restrictions. Obtaining Turkish citizenship does not require surrendering your original nationality from Turkey’s side. Turkey will not ask you to cancel your other citizenship.
The real question is: what does your home country’s law say?
Dual Nationality Rules for Major Arab Nationalities
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia does not officially recognize dual citizenship. Obtaining a foreign nationality may legally result in losing Saudi citizenship — but enforcement varies significantly in practice. Many Saudis hold two passports. Consult a specialized Saudi lawyer before proceeding.
UAE
The UAE does not officially recognize dual citizenship. A UAE national who acquires a foreign citizenship could theoretically lose their UAE nationality. In practice, this is rarely enforced unless self-reported, but the legal risk exists.
Egypt
Egypt formally prohibits dual citizenship. An Egyptian who acquires a foreign nationality without prior approval may face administrative procedures. In practice, many Egyptians hold two passports without issue — but the legal risk is real and the decision is personal.
Sudan
Sudan permits dual citizenship in some cases, particularly for residents abroad. The legal situation is unstable. Consult a specialized lawyer.
Yemen
Yemen legally prohibits dual citizenship, but enforcement is nearly nonexistent under current circumstances. Many Yemenis hold two passports without practical problems.
Iraq
Iraq formally prohibits dual citizenship for men, but enforcement in practice is lenient. Many Iraqis hold two passports.
Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain
These Gulf states do not recognize dual citizenship — same position as the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Legally prohibited, practically variable in enforcement.
Non-Arab Nationalities: Key Positions
Russia
Russia permits dual citizenship with countries that have bilateral agreements — Turkey and Russia have such an agreement. Since 2023, Russian law requires citizens to notify authorities when obtaining a foreign passport, but this is a notification requirement, not a prohibition. Consult a Russian legal specialist for your specific situation.
Iran
Iran does not officially recognize dual citizenship. Under Iranian law, obtaining a foreign nationality may result in losing Iranian citizenship — however, enforcement is limited for Iranians residing abroad. Many Iranian investors hold both passports in practice. A decision of this nature requires consultation with a lawyer specializing in Iranian nationality law.
Ukraine
Ukraine has been moving toward formally recognizing dual citizenship since 2025-2026, but the legal framework remains in transition. The current practical situation is ambiguous. Consult a Ukrainian legal specialist for current status before proceeding.
Practical Summary
Turkey does not prevent you from retaining your original citizenship — the issue is entirely in your home country’s law. The key principle: do not surrender your original citizenship unless you are completely certain of your decision and have obtained legal advice in your home country.
Your Turkish passport will not always replace the need for your original passport — particularly for dealings with home country authorities, some banks, and certain residency arrangements.
Related Articles
- Turkish Citizenship for Your Family: Spouse, Children, and Minors
- Turkish Citizenship Rejection Reasons: What No One Tells You
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