Qatar to Launch 10-Year Residency Programme to Attract Global Talent

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Doha: Qatar has announced plans to introduce a 10-year residency programme aimed at entrepreneurs and senior corporate executives, marking a significant step to attract global business leaders and startup founders.

The announcement was made by Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, who said the long-term residency option would provide greater certainty and stability for founders and executives seeking to establish themselves in Qatar.

The move places Qatar alongside regional peers such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, both of which have implemented long-term residency schemes to draw international talent, capital and innovation.

Alongside the residency initiative, the prime minister announced a $2 billion expansion of Qatar’s venture capital programme. The funding will build on the existing $1 billion Fund of Funds initiative, which was launched to attract international venture capital firms, support early-stage companies and reduce the economy’s reliance on gas revenues.

Officials said the expanded programme is expected to accelerate startup growth, anchor global investors in Qatar and strengthen the country’s innovation ecosystem.

While detailed eligibility criteria and timelines for the new residency programme have yet to be announced, the policy reflects a broader regional trend. Gulf economies are increasingly offering long-term residency options to entrepreneurs, investors and skilled professionals to promote economic diversification and long-term stability.

Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency programme, introduced under Vision 2030, allows eligible investors and professionals to live and work in the kingdom without a local sponsor, own property and operate businesses. Similarly, the UAE’s golden visa programme offers renewable five- and ten-year visas to investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, professionals and high-achieving students.

Analysts say Qatar’s proposed 10-year residency is likely to mirror elements of both the Saudi and UAE models, offering entrepreneurs greater predictability when setting up startups, regional headquarters or investment platforms.

Combined with expanded venture funding, the move signals Qatar’s intention to compete more aggressively for global talent, long-term capital and innovation-driven growth.