Saudi Arabia has announced the fields required for its groundbreaking Special Talent Residency program, as reported by Gulf News. This move comes as part of the government’s broader initiative to attract skilled professionals and investments to the kingdom.
Launched earlier this month, the Special Talent Residency program comprises five premium residency programs tailored for professionals in various sectors, including healthcare, sports, real estate, and more. The eligible specializations for the residency include healthcare and life sciences, digital technologies, financial services, advanced manufacturing, space and defense, energy, metals and mining, logistics and transport, tourism infrastructure, and food and agriculture technologies.
The initiative also extends to research areas in space and aviation, environment, energy, health, urban transformation, and digital technologies.
Under these residency programs, participants will have the opportunity to settle in Saudi Arabia, conduct business, own real estate, and obtain work permits for themselves and their family members. Eligible applicants can apply for the permit, which comes with benefits such as exemption from expat and dependents fees. The one-time fee for the residency permit is set at SR4,000 ($1,066).
Residents holding these permits are granted the right to own property, including residential, commercial, and industrial properties across the country, excluding Makkah, Medina, and the border regions. Additionally, those with residency permits can secure premium residency status for their family members.
This move by Saudi Arabia aims to attract top-tier talent in key industries, fostering innovation and expertise within the kingdom, while simultaneously contributing to the nation’s economic diversification efforts. The program is expected to play a crucial role in positioning Saudi Arabia as a hub for skilled professionals and investors in the region.
