Saudi grants residency to 685 tech experts to boost digital growth

Riyadh: The Saudi Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) announced on Tuesday that 685 technology researchers have been granted distinctive residency in the Kingdom. The announcement was made on the third day of the LEAP Tech Conference.

According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), specialists in 5G technology led the recipients, comprising 16 percent of the total, followed closely by cloud computing experts at 15 percent. These sectors form the backbone of digital transformation efforts, positioning Saudi Arabia as a regional leader in next-generation technologies.

Experts in Big Data (13 percent) and artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (12 percent) were also among the prominent beneficiaries of the program. AI-driven advancements are considered a national priority, with applications spanning healthcare, education, and digital industries.

The program further attracted professionals in smart technologies, fintech and advanced computing, critical fields for expanding the Kingdom’s digital economy. The residency initiative saw participation from experts across multiple countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, Brazil, India, Pakistan and Egypt.

Saudi Arabia’s residence visa program offers skilled professionals in health and science-related sectors the opportunity to apply for residency of up to five years, depending on their monthly income. Visa holders benefit from family residency, business ownership rights, real estate acquisition privileges and collaboration opportunities with government entities.

This initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy, which prioritizes technological innovation and economic diversification. By fostering a robust digital infrastructure, the Kingdom aims to position itself as a global hub for tech-driven investment and research.