Vision 2030: Saudi Arabia to grant citizenship to experts

Saudi Arabia on Thursday made a royal decree to offer Saudi citizenship to a select group of individuals whose expertise may contribute to the development of various sectors across the Kingdom in achieving its Vision 2030 goal.

These individuals include scientists, medical professionals, researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs, and talented individuals with specialisations, according to the royal decree, Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.

This move demonstrates the country’s ongoing efforts to attract global talent with unique abilities.

This royal decree aligns with Saudi Arabia’s pursuit of individuals with exceptional skills and expertise in fields that can contribute to the development of various sectors throughout the Kingdom, in line with its Vision 2030 objectives.

The Vision 2030 initiative reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to attracting, investing in and retaining exceptional creative minds.

It also highlights the Kingdom's ambitions to create an environment that fosters innovation and development.

The announcement follows a similar royal decree which was previously issued in 2021 to grant Saudi citizenships to the first group of select distinguished talent in these fields.

Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 was launched in 2016 under the directive of King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, according to a report by Al Arabiya News earlier this year.

It is an ambitious blueprint that aims to create a "diversified, innovative and world-leading nation," through the Kingdom's deeply rooted cultural heritage and strategic advantages, according to the official webpage of the initiative.

There are three pillars in Vision 2030 roadmap that highlight the main focus of Saudi Arabia as it works toward achieving its goals — vibrant society, thriving economy, and ambitious nation.

These pillars further branch into strategic objectives to enable effective implementation of programs across sectors.