Saudi Arabia grants citizenship to exceptional global talents

In a move aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, a royal decree issued by King Salman Bin Abdulaziz has granted Saudi citizenship to several distinguished scientists, medical doctors, researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs and talented individuals. The initiative aims to attract and retain exceptional talents to contribute to the kingdom’s development across various sectors.

Last week the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported that the decree seeks to enhance the kingdom’s economic and social growth by leveraging unique competencies in “religious, medical, scientific, cultural, sports, and technological fields.” This follows a similar decree in 2021 that also granted citizenship to distinguished individuals.

Athletes recently granted #Saudi citizenship after a royal order issued on Thursday included three women; American footballer Maryam Al-Tamimi, French #tennis player Maysan Hussein, and #MuayThai fighter Tasneem Al-Qassab #SaudiArabia @mosgovsa_en https://t.co/lXZryrKCzU

— Arab News | Sport (@ArabNewsSport) July 7, 2024

Among the notable recipients is Dr Mehmood Khan, a Pakistani scientist and US national educated in Britain. Khan is now the CEO of Hevolution Foundation in Riyadh, which funds health science research and biotechnology investments.

A scientist from Lebanon, Nevine Khashab was also granted Saudi citizenship in recognition of her scientific efficiency and significant contributions to bio-engineering and nanomaterials. She is a founding member of King Abdullah University of Science and Technology.

Additionally, three elite foreign athletes have been granted citizenship: Maryam Al-Tamimi, a US footballer; Maysan Hussein, a 15-year-old French tennis player; and Tasneem Al-Qassab, a Syrian Muay Thai fighter.

The move follows similar amendments to the UAE’s citizenship laws. In January 2021, the Gulf state announced laws allowing the naturalisation of investors, specialised talents and professionals and their families.

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