RIYADH, August 6, 2025 – Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency program has become very popular among global talent and investors. The program received 40,163 applications between January 2024 and July 2025.
This huge number shows that more people want to live and work in Saudi Arabia. Both local and international applicants are interested in this special residency program.
Strong Growth in Residency Permits
The Saudi government issued 8,074 Premium Residency permits in 2024 alone. This shows the program’s success in attracting high-quality residents to the Kingdom.
The “exceptional competence” category was the most popular choice. It received 5,578 permits out of the total issued. The “talent” category came second with 348 permits.
Seven Categories Now Available
Saudi Arabia expanded the Premium Residency program in early 2024. The program grew from just two categories to seven different options:
- Exceptional Competence (most popular)
- Talent
- Business Investor
- Entrepreneur
- Real Estate Owner
- Limited Duration Premium Residency
- Unlimited Duration Premium Residency
This expansion gives more people different ways to qualify for Saudi residency.
Amazing Benefits for Residents
Premium Residency holders get many special benefits that make living in Saudi Arabia easier:
- Permanent or time-limited residency for family members
- Freedom to enter and exit without visa requirements
- No expat levies or extra taxes
- Right to invest and own property
- Permission to buy vehicles
- Work in private sector without needing a sponsor
- Hire domestic workers
- Issue family visit visas
Special Religious Site Access
The program offers unique religious benefits too. Residents can get usufruct rights to properties in Makkah and Madinah for up to 99 years. They can also use citizen-designated airport lanes for faster travel.
Part of Saudi Arabia’s Big Vision
The Premium Residency system supports Saudi Arabia’s strategy to become more competitive globally. The Kingdom wants to create a better environment for living, working, and doing business.
This program removes the traditional sponsor requirement that many expatriates faced before. Now, high-value individuals can live and work independently in Saudi Arabia.
Growing Global Appeal
The surge in applications shows Saudi Arabia is becoming more attractive to international talent. The Kingdom is successfully positioning itself as a hub for innovation, investment, and career opportunities.
This success reflects Saudi Arabia’s broader economic transformation and its efforts to diversify away from oil dependency.
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