Qatar to introduce 10-year residency programme for entrepreneurs, senior executives

Qatar will roll out a 10-year residency programme for entrepreneurs and senior executives, Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said on Sunday, Reuters reported. The programme aims to attract skilled professionals and investors as the country looks to support business growth and economic diversification, according to Reuters.

The decision places Qatar alongside Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which have in recent years introduced long-term residency options to draw global talent and capital.

Along with the residency plan, the Qatar Investment Authority will expand its venture capital programme by $2 billion, Al Thani said. The step is intended to strengthen the local startup and investment ecosystem.


The expansion builds on the existing “Fund of Funds” initiative, which is currently valued at $1 billion. The programme was set up to attract venture capital firms to Qatar, support entrepreneurship, and help reduce the economy’s reliance on gas revenues.

Together, the residency programme and increased funding signal a push by Qatar to position itself as a more attractive base for business leaders and new ventures in the region.

(With inputs from Reuters)