Saudi Arabia Premium Residency Benefits

Oct 4, 2025

Explore the official long-term residency program empowering foreign residents to live, invest, and thrive in the Kingdom

Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency is a strategic initiative under Vision 2030, offering qualified foreign nationals the ability to live, work, and own property in the Kingdom — without the need for a local sponsor (kafeel).

This program grants a range of exclusive rights to residents and their families, and — starting in 2026 — will include access to property ownership in Makkah and Madinah under a new real estate law.

🌟 Key Benefits of Premium Residency

1. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Residency for Family Members

Sponsor your spouse, children under 25, and dependent parents to live in Saudi Arabia.

2. 💼 Business Ownership

Establish and fully own companies in Saudi Arabia — no Saudi partner or sponsor required.

3. ❌ Exemption from Expat Fees

No monthly fees for you or your dependents (exemption from expat levies).

4. ✈️ Visa-Free Travel

Enter and exit the Kingdom freely, without the need for exit/re-entry visas.

5. 🔄 Free Employer Transfers

Move between employers or legal entities without Kafala-based restrictions or additional fees (except for restricted professions).

6. 🤝 Host and Invite Relatives

Apply for visit visas for relatives outside your immediate dependents.

🏘️ Real Estate Ownership — Latest 2026 Update

✅ Current Status:

Premium Residency holders are permitted to own real estate in Saudi Arabia.
In Makkah and Madinah, they may obtain usufruct rights (i.e. long-term usage rights) for up to 99 years, via notarial deed.

🏗️ From January 2026:

Thanks to the newly approved real estate law:

Muslim expats, including Premium Residency holders, will be allowed to buy property in designated zones within Makkah and Madinah.
Full freehold ownership (lifetime) is expected to be permitted, subject to future regulations and conditions.
The Saudi government will define zones, ownership terms, and eligibility criteria through upcoming executive regulations.

This is a major step toward integrating long-term residents into the local economy and property market.