Saudi Arabia's Premium Residency program offers wealthy foreign investors a pathway to permanent residency through property investment. With a minimum investment of SAR 4 million (~$1.07 million USD), you can secure residency for yourself and your family in one of the world's fastest-growing economies.
What is Saudi Premium Residency?
Premium Residency is Saudi Arabia's equivalent to the UAE's Golden Visa or Portugal's Golden Visa program. It grants foreign nationals the right to live, work, and invest in Saudi Arabia indefinitely, without the need for a Saudi sponsor.
Property Ownership
Own property anywhere in Saudi Arabia, including Makkah and Madinah (with restrictions)
Business Rights
Start and operate businesses without a Saudi partner
Family Inclusion
Spouse and children included in your residency
Travel Benefits
Easier visa access to GCC countries and beyond
Property Investment Requirements
Minimum Investment
Approximately $1,070,000 USD
The property investment must meet the following criteria:
- Residential property: Must be a residential unit (villa, apartment, or land for residential development)
- Full ownership: Must be 100% owned by the applicant (not shared ownership)
- Designated zones: Property must be in an area approved for foreign ownership
- Maintained value: Property must retain minimum value throughout residency
Comparison: Saudi vs Other Golden Visas
| Country | Min. Investment | Income Tax | Rental Yield |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saudi Arabia | $1.07M | 0% | 8.89% |
| UAE (Dubai) | $545K | 0% | 5-7% |
| Portugal | $580K | Up to 48% | 3-5% |
| Greece | $275K | Up to 44% | 4-6% |
| Spain | $550K | Up to 47% | 3-5% |
While Saudi Arabia has a higher investment threshold than some programs, the combination of 0% income tax and 8.89% rental yields makes it financially superior for investors focused on returns.
Application Process
- 1Purchase Qualifying Property
Buy property worth SAR 4M+ in a designated foreign ownership zone.
- 2Gather Documentation
Passport, title deed, proof of funds, clean criminal record, health certificate.
- 3Submit Application
Apply through the Premium Residency Center online portal.
- 4Complete Purchase
Finalize your property purchase of SAR 4 million or above. No additional residency fee required — your property investment is the qualification.
- 5Receive Approval
Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks for property-based applications.
Full Benefits of Premium Residency
- Live and work in Saudi Arabia indefinitely
- Own property anywhere (including Makkah/Madinah with restrictions)
- Start businesses without Saudi sponsor
- Access Saudi banking and financial services
- Sponsor domestic workers
- Use dedicated lanes at airports and borders
- Include spouse and unmarried children