King Salman has issued a decree granting Saudi nationality to brilliant foreign professionals in a step aimed at attracting bright minds from around the world as the kingdom seeks to diversify its economy, Sabq reported Thursday.
According to a royal decree issued two months ago, Saudi nationality will be granted to distinguished professionals in different disciplines including Islamic scholars as well as experts in nuclear and renewable energy, medicine, pharmacology, computer science, oil, artificial intelligence, robotics, ecology, astronautics, aviation, culture, sports and arts, the paper added.
“It also covers domains needed by Saudi Arabia due to its geographical nature such as distinguished scientists in the desalination technology and helping in attaining objectives of expediting development,” it added.
The naturalization step is aimed at drawing distinguished and creative people from around the world to come to live and work in Saudi Arabia, the report said.
It is not yet clear if the program also comprises non-Muslim professionals.
There was no immediate official comment on the report.
