Saudi Arabia has published details on its official website outlining nine key benefits available to foreigners who hold premium residency status in the kingdom. The programme is part of the government's broader strategy to attract skilled individuals from around the world, according to the official statement.
What the Premium Residency Programme Offers
The Saudi government described the initiative as a means to draw the best minds globally to live and work in the country. The official website stated: "The Kingdom seeks to attract the best minds from all over the world to live and work in order to promote development, creativity, and investment in human resources, and the product works to support the stability of resident beneficiaries in Saudi society."
The benefits collectively position premium residency holders in a more privileged standing compared to standard expatriates in Saudi Arabia. The permit covers parents, spouses, and children under the age of 25, allowing families to reside together under one permit.
Full List of Nine Benefits for Permit Holders
- Residency with family members – The permit includes parents, spouses, and children under 25.
- Freedom to change employers – Holders can move between facilities without restrictions.
- Exemption from expatriate fees – The financial charges normally imposed on expatriates and their companions do not apply.
- Unrestricted travel – The holder and family members can leave and re-enter the Kingdom without a visa.
- Visit visas for relatives – Holders can issue visit visas for family members living abroad.
- Priority lanes at ports – Access to lanes reserved for Saudi citizens and GCC nationals at entry and exit points.
- Work rights for the entire family – The holder, spouse, and children can work in private sector establishments and move between them.
- Business ownership – Holders can conduct business activities under Saudi investment regulations.
- Real estate rights – Entitlement to own and use real estate within the kingdom.
Impact of the Programme on Foreign Residents
The ability to bring parents into the kingdom under the same permit, avoid the expatriate levy, and own property are among the most notable advantages. The inclusion of priority port lanes, usually reserved for citizens and GCC nationals, reflects the elevated status the permit confers on its holders.
In a related development, the UAE government recently listed six benefits for foreigners holding a Golden Residency. That long-term residency allows eligible foreigners to live in the UAE without sponsorship from a local employer or individual. Golden Residency holders can also sponsor their spouses, children, parents, and domestic workers to live with them in the UAE.
