GCC Golden Visas Now Open to UAE Residents: Seize Long-Term Residency Across the Gulf

The Gulf region is experiencing a transformative shift in residency policy. UAE residents can now access Golden Visa–style programs across all GCC countries. This opens doors to long-term stability, investment, and regional mobility. Below is a detailed guide to the new residency landscape across Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states.

The New Era of Gulf Long-Term Residency

For decades, expatriates in GCC states have relied on short-term work permits tied to local sponsors. That model is giving way to a more open, investor- and talent-friendly framework. Gulf nations now compete to attract global investors, skilled professionals, and innovators with renewable visas that span five to ten years — many without requiring local sponsorship.

With this expansion, UAE residents are in a strong position to benefit from multiple Gulf residence options. Below, we explore the eligibility criteria and benefits across each GCC country.

UAE: The Original Golden Visa Model

The United Arab Emirates first launched its Golden Visa program in 2019. It remains a benchmark for long-term expatriate residency in the region.

Key eligibility routes:

• Purchasing property valued at AED 2 million or more.

• Investing AED 2 million in public funds or UAE-registered companies.

• Owning a business that generates over AED 1 million in annual revenue.

• Earning a salary of AED 30,000/month as a skilled professional.

Visa holders enjoy full business ownership rights, ability to sponsor family, and stability via 10-year renewable status.

Saudi Arabia: Premium Residency (Iqama)

Saudi Arabia has introduced a premium residence permit to break from its traditional sponsorship system.

Eligibility highlights:

• Property purchase of SAR 4 million (~USD 1.07 million).

• Business investment commitment of SAR 7 million (~USD 1.87 million) with local job creation.

• Yearly permit fee: SAR 100,000 (≈ USD 26,600).

With premium residency, holders can live, work, and own real estate in Saudi Arabia without a sponsor. Permanent status is also an option for qualifying applicants.

Qatar: Residency Through Real Estate Investment

Qatar links long-term residency directly to property investment.

Permit structure:

• Invest USD 200,000 in real estate to receive a temporary, renewable permit.

• Invest USD 1 million to qualify for permanent residency (subject to quota limits).

Applicants must be over 21, maintain a clean criminal record, and pass health checks. The process typically takes 4–6 weeks. Permit holders can live, work, own property, and sponsor dependents.

Bahrain: Inclusive Golden Residency

Bahrain offers a flexible 10-year Golden Residency program aimed at investors, professionals, and retirees.

Paths to qualify:

• Owning property worth BHD 200,000 (≈ USD 530,000).

• Earning a monthly salary of BHD 2,000 as a resident employee.

• Demonstrating a retirement income of BHD 4,000 (≈ USD 10,600).

• Recognition for exceptional talent by Bahraini authorities.

Bahrain’s program is among the most inclusive in the region, serving long-term residents seeking stability.

Oman: Investor Residency Program (Vision 2040)

Under Oman’s Vision 2040 plan, the Investor Residency Program offers a pathway to 10-year residency.

Requirements include:

• Investing OMR 200,000 (≈ USD 520,000) in property, business, or government bonds.

• A 5-year permit is also offered to smaller investors.

• Retirees with OMR 4,000/month income may also apply.

Benefits include the ability to sponsor family, own property outside tourist zones, and access fast-track airport services.

What This Means for UAE Residents

UAE expatriates now benefit from an expanded regional playbook. Whether your goal is starting a business in Riyadh, acquiring real estate in Muscat, or securing long-term status in Manama or Doha, you can explore GCC Golden Visa options beyond UAE.

Key takeaways:

1. Multiple routes exist — via property, business, or income.

2. Visas vary in duration — from 5 years to permanent status.

3. Family inclusion is often allowed (spouses, children, sometimes parents).

4. No sponsor needed in many programs, granting increased freedom.

5. Processing times range from weeks to months depending on country and complexity.

Strategic Tips for Applicants

• Compare investment thresholds carefully — each country sets different minima.

• Check local job-creation requirements, especially for business investment paths.

• Verify property restrictions (e.g. zone limitations, allowable regions).

• Consult immigration experts in each GCC country for documentation and applications.

• Consider tax, legal, and lifestyle factors before committing to one country.

The expansion of Golden Visa and premium residency programs across the GCC marks a historic pivot. For UAE residents, it unlocks new horizons throughout the Gulf. Whether you seek business opportunities, real estate, or long-term settlement, these programs now offer multiple pathways to regional permanence.