Saudi Arabia to grant citizenship to highly qualified foreign nationals

Saudi Arabia to grant citizenship to highly skilled expat professionals

Saudi Arabia has announced the approval of granting citizenships to foreign nationals with specialized skills in a number of professions, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Thursday. 

The announcement is in accordance with the royal order to grant citizenship to high-skilled professionals working in specialized areas within the legal, medical, scientific, cultural, sports, and technical fields.

This decision is in line with Vision 2030, which aims to create an attractive top-level business environment for professionals.

The Kingdom announced in 2019 that it would open the door to naturalization for outstanding scientists, innovators, and cultural professionals who meet the required criteria.

The new order focuses on professionals working in specific fields. It covers experts in forensic and medical science, technology, agriculture, nuclear and renewable energy, oil and gas, and artificial intelligence, in addition to specialists involved in arts, sports and culture.