UAE Residents Are Now Eligible for Golden Visas in All GCC Countries
Key Takeaways
- All GCC member states now offer some form of long-term investor or premium residency program.
- These programs replace the traditional model of short-term employment contracts tied to local sponsorship.
- The UAE's Golden Visa (10-year renewable) serves as the benchmark for attracting talent and investors.
- Saudi Arabia's Premium Residency (Iqama) offers permanent options, marking a significant policy change.
- Schemes across the GCC link residency to property investment, high income, or professional status to foster long-term talent retention.
The Gulf region is undergoing a major policy transformation, with all GCC members now offering long-term residency programs designed to attract global talent and investment away from previous short-term employment models. The UAE's 10-year Golden Visa, offering full business ownership, is considered the regional standard, while Saudi Arabia's Premium Residency provides permanent and renewable options without sponsorship. Qatar links residency to real estate investment, Bahrain offers 10-year visas for professionals and retirees, and Oman's Golden Visa supports its Vision 2040 goals through required investments. These initiatives signify a strategic shift for Gulf governments to diversify revenue, boost innovation, and offer expatriates a greater sense of permanence.
