Golden Visa is often the most talked-about long-term residency route in the Gulf. While UAE Golden Visa has been in the headlines, offering long-term residency in bustling hubs like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, other countries are quietly emerging with equally compelling, if not more accessible, options.
Among these, Bahrain’s 10-year Golden Residency Visa is a flexible and cost-effective alternative, and Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency (also known as Saudi Green Card) is another option for those looking for long-term settlement.
Here, we are going to discuss every detail of these Gulf residency options, comparing their eligibility criteria, financial requirements and benefits, with a focus on Indian applicants. We will explore why Bahrain is being called the Gulf’s “hidden residency gem” and help you understand which path is right for you.
Bahrain Golden Visa Overview
Bahrain’s Golden Residency, launched in 2022 as part of its Vision 2030 economic diversification strategy, is designed to attract global talent, investors and long-term residents. It offers 10-year renewable residency, unparalleled freedom and family-friendly structure at a fraction of the cost of its neighbours.
Key Features of the Bahrain Golden Visa
The Bahrain Golden Visa offers:
- 10-year Renewable Residency: Long-term security for you and your family.
- No Employer Sponsorship Required: A big advantage, you can switch jobs, start your own business or freelance without being tied to a specific employer. This work flexibility is rare in the region.
- No Minimum Stay Condition: Ideal for digital nomads or frequent travelers, you can maintain your residency without strict physical presence requirements.
- Lower Cost of Living: Compared to Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Riyadh, Bahrain has a much lower cost of living, from housing and education to healthcare and daily expenses, while maintaining a high standard of living.
- Family-Friendly Terms: Easy sponsorship of spouse, children (of any age) and even parents, often without additional income or property conditions.
- Quick and Easy Application: Online process, clear steps and support, often processed within 5 to 10 working days.
UAE Residency Programs
The UAE Golden Visa, since 2019, has become synonymous with long term residency in the Gulf. Valid for 5 or 10 years, it targets a wide range of individuals from high net worth investors to specialized talents, entrepreneurs and outstanding students. The UAE program is known for its global recognition, robust infrastructure and dynamic business environment.
Key Features of the UAE Golden Visa
The UAE Golden Visa offers:
- Long term, Renewable Residence Visa: 5 or 10 years, stability.
- No Sponsor Required: Holders can live, work or study in the UAE without a local sponsor.
- Extended Stay Outside UAE: Unlike many other visa types Golden Visa holders can stay outside the UAE for more than 6 months without their visa becoming invalid.
- Family Sponsorship: Can sponsor family members including spouse and children (regardless of age) and unlimited number of domestic helpers.
- Family Stay Upon Primary Holder’s Demise: Family members can stay in the UAE until the end of their permit duration if the primary Golden Visa holder passes away.
- Global Connectivity and Business Hubs: Access to business hubs like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, strong infrastructure and global air connectivity.
Saudi Arabia Premium Residency
Saudi Arabia Premium Residency program also known as the Saudi Green Card was launched in 2019 as part of Vision 2030 to diversify the economy and attract skilled professionals, entrepreneurs and investors. It offers a path to long term or even permanent residency to those seeking stability and big opportunities in a rapidly growing market.
Key Features of the Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency
The Saudi Premium Residency offers:
- Business Opportunities: Premium residents can establish and manage businesses, invest in the Saudi Capital market, own foreign-owned onshore entities (with appropriate licenses), and work in private organizations without a local sponsor.
- Eligibility for Permanent Residency: Can apply for permanent residency after maintaining eligibility for a minimum of 30 months within 5 consecutive or non-consecutive years.
- Visa Free Entry and Exit: Unrestricted entry and exit, can travel in and out of Saudi Arabia without a visa and use of fast lanes at re-entry.
- Family Residency: Immediate family members (married spouse, unmarried children under 25, and dependent parents under certain conditions) can apply for residence permit, with rights to live, work and invest and visa free exit/re-entry.
- Real Estate Ownership: Can own residential, commercial and industrial property, investment opportunities and long term stability.
Eligibility and Application Process for Indian Applicants
For Indian applicants, understanding the eligibility and application process of each program is key. While all three Gulf countries want to attract global talent, their requirements and application processes can be very different.
Comparing Eligibility for Indians
| Criteria / Visa Type | Bahrain Golden Visa | UAE Golden Visa | Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Employed/Professional | BHD 2,000/month (USD 5,300) income, 5 years residency in Bahrain. | AED 50,000/month (USD 13,600) salary for executives, specific degrees for specialists. | SAR 14,000-80,000/month (USD 3,700-21,300) for Special Talent, specific experience/degrees. |
| Retiree | BHD 2,000/month (USD 5,300) pension (resident) or BHD 4,000/month (USD 10,600) (non-resident). | Not a direct category, but high-net-worth individuals may qualify as investors. | Not a direct category, but financial solvency is required for all. |
| Property Owner | BHD 200,000 (USD 530,000) property value. | AED 2 million (USD 545,000) property value. | SAR 4,000,000 (USD 1,066,000) property value. |
| Exceptional Talent | Recognized by the Bahraini government in science, sports, arts, entrepreneurship. | Scientists, doctors, creatives, inventors, athletes, engineers, specific degrees/awards. | Special Talent (executives, healthcare, science, research), Gifted (culture, sports) with awards/recommendations. |
| Minimum Age | Not explicitly stated, but assumed adult. | Not explicitly stated, but assumed adult. | 21 years. |
| Criminal Record | Clean criminal record required. | Clean criminal record required. | Clean criminal record required. |
| Health Check | Health insurance required. | Medical tests required. | Medical examination required. |
For Indians, Bahrain is a more accessible entry point with lower income threshold and no tie to a specific employer. UAE Golden Visa is for higher tier of professionals and investors, while Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency has very specific criteria for specialized talents and big investors.
Application Process for Indians
All three are online applications, fast. But documentation and verification processes may vary.
- Bahrain: Known for its simple online application through official portal with quick processing time (5-10 working days). Fees are also lower.
- UAE: Applications can be made through ICP website/app or GDRFAD for Dubai. While streamlined, the process may involve multiple approvals and longer processing time depending on emirate and category.
- Saudi Arabia: Application involves meeting specific product criteria and submitting extensive documentation including financial proofs and medical reports. The process is detailed and requires careful following of guidelines.
Investment Options and Financial Requirements
Financial commitment is the biggest difference between these Gulf residency options. Each country has different thresholds for investors and professionals, directly impacting Indian applicants.
Bahrain Golden Visa: More affordable.
- Property investment is BHD 200,000. This is approximately 4.4 crore INR or USD 530,000. This is a significant investment. But it is lower than the UAE’s threshold.
- The income requirement for professionals is BHD 2,000 monthly. This is USD 5,300. This is for a five year residency.
- For retirees, it is a BHD 2,000 pension. Or BHD 4,000 from abroad. Application fee is BHD 5 (USD 13).
- Visa issuance is BHD 300 (USD 795).
- Total initial cost for property investors is USD 530,000. Plus administrative fees of USD 808.
UAE Golden Visa: Demands higher money.
- Public investment is AED 2 million, which is about 4.53 crore INR. Or USD 545,000. This can be in an accredited fund. Or capital in a commercial license. Or AED 250,000 annual tax payments.
- Real estate investment is AED 2 million or USD 545,000. It can be a single property. Or a group of properties.
- Entrepreneur investment needs AED 500,000 project value. This is for technical projects.
- Associated costs range from AED 2,800-5,000. This covers registration and medical tests. Emirati ID is also included.
- Costs vary by emirate and family size.
- Total initial cost for investors is USD 545,000. Plus several thousand USD in fees.
Saudi Arabia Premium Residency
- Permanent residency is SAR 800,000 one-time or 1.77 crore INR. Or USD 213,000. The annual option is SAR 100,000 per year. This is about 22 lakh INR or USD 26,660.
- Investor Residency needs a SAR 7,000,000 investment.
- Entrepreneur Residency has thresholds of SAR 400,000 (USD 106,600) or SAR 15,000,000 (USD 4,000,000)
- Real Estate Owner Residency needs SAR 4,000,000 or USD 1,066,000 in property.
Financial commitment varies greatly. This is a major differentiator. Each country sets distinct thresholds. This impacts accessibility for Indians.
| Visa Type | Minimum Investment/Cost (approx. USD) |
|---|---|
| Bahrain Golden Visa | Property: 530,000; Fees: 808 |
| UAE Golden Visa | Investment/Property: 545,000; Fees: 760-1,360+ |
| Saudi Premium Residency | Permanent: 213,000 (one-time fee); Annual: 26,660/year; Investor: 1,866,000 |
As evident, Bahrain presents the lowest financial threshold for property investors, making it a more accessible option for many Indian applicants compared to the higher investment requirements of the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
Benefits and Privileges: Bahrain vs. UAE vs Saudi Arabia
Beyond the financial outlay, the real value lies in the benefits and perks. From residency duration and family sponsorship to employment and travel flexibility, each visa has its own advantages catering to different priorities.
Residency Duration and Renewal
- Bahrain Golden Visa: 10 years renewable. Renewal is subject to continued compliance with the original criteria (income, pension or investment).
- UAE Golden Visa: 5 or 10 years. Renewal is subject to maintaining the required investment or eligibility criteria.
- Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency: Varies. Limited Duration is 1-5 years, renewable. Unlimited Duration is permanent residency (indefinite stay). Investor Residency can lead to permanent residency after 2 years, if investment and job creation targets are met.
Family Sponsorship and Dependents
- Bahrain Golden Visa: Super family friendly. Spouses, children (any age), and even parents can be sponsored under the main application without extra income or property conditions.
- UAE Golden Visa: Spouses, children (any age) and unlimited domestic helpers can be sponsored. Family members can stay in the UAE even if the main holder passes away.
- Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency: Family sponsorship for married spouses, unmarried children under 25 and dependent parents (under certain conditions). Family members also get visa free exit and re-entry.
Employment and Business
- Bahrain Golden Visa: Full freedom to work or conduct business without employer sponsorship. Can switch jobs, start own business or freelance. A separate work permit is optional for formal employment, but easily processed. This unrestricted employment is a big plus.
- UAE Golden Visa: Live, work and study without a local sponsor. Broad access to the UAE’s business environment, especially in fintech, real estate and innovation. Entrepreneurs can establish projects with specific value thresholds.
- Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency: Full employment and business ownership rights. Can establish and manage businesses, invest in the Saudi Capital market, work in private organizations without a local sponsor. Big plus for those who want to tap into Saudi Arabia’s diversifying economy.
Travel Flexibility
- Bahrain Golden Visa: No restrictions on how long you can stay abroad without losing your residency. Perfect for digital nomads or frequent international travellers.
- UAE Golden Visa: No minimum stay requirement to maintain the visa but the underlying investment must remain intact for a minimum period (e.g., 3 years for real estate).
- Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency: Unrestricted entry and exit privileges. Can travel in and out of Saudi Arabia without a visa. Can use fast lanes at re-entry.
| Feature / Visa Type | Bahrain Golden Visa | UAE Golden Visa | Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Residency Duration | 10 years, renewable | 5 or 10 years, renewable | 1-5 years (Limited), Permanent (Unlimited) |
| Employer Sponsorship | Not required (full work flexibility) | Not required | Not required |
| Minimum Stay | No restriction | No minimum stay | Unrestricted entry/exit |
| Family Sponsorship | Spouse, children (all ages), parents | Spouse, children (all ages), unlimited domestic helpers | Spouse, unmarried children (\<25), dependent parents |
| Business Rights | Full freedom to start business/freelance | Broad access to business ecosystems | Establish/manage businesses, invest in capital market |
| Property Ownership | Yes (if qualifying by property) | Yes (if qualifying by property) | Yes (residential, commercial, industrial) |
Bahrain offers affordability and flexibility. Especially for work and travel. The UAE is a recognized business hub. Saudi Arabia offers permanent residency. It has major opportunities in its economy.
Key Factors to Consider for Indian Applicants
Choosing a Gulf residency involves more than money. Lifestyle, culture, and economy matter. These affect an Indian applicant’s decision.
Lifestyle and Cultural Factors
- Bahrain: It is slower and community-focused. Good for work-life balance and affordability. Known for its relaxed vibe. It is multicultural and more liberal. Living costs are lower than UAE and Saudi. This includes housing, healthcare, and schooling. Good for families seeking stability.
- UAE: Known for fast, cosmopolitan life. World-class infrastructure. Diverse expat community. Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer great things.
- Saudi Arabia: Largest economy in the Middle East. Vision 2030 projects are big. They drive economic growth. Many chances for entrepreneurs and investors. Especially in tech, entertainment, and tourism. Saudi Premium Residency helps this vision. It attracts foreign money and businesses. NEOM and other mega-projects offer unique long-term chances.
Economic Prospects and Opportunities
- Bahrain: Vision 2030 aims to diversify the economy away from oil dependency, attracting skilled professionals, investors, and innovators. The Bahrain Golden Visa is a key part of this strategy, aiming for $2.5 billion FDI and 20,000 jobs for nationals annually. The elimination of the kafala system since 2009 further enhances work flexibility. Over 10,000 Golden Residencies have been issued by the end of 2024, positioning Bahrain as a less costly alternative for the Gulf lifestyle.
- UAE: Continues to be a global business and financial hub, with strong sectors in fintech, real estate, tourism, and innovation. Its policy emphasizes sector diversification, talent acquisition, and strategic infrastructure for a post-oil economy. The UAE offers a mature and highly developed business ecosystem, making it attractive for those prioritizing business scalability and international networking.
- Saudi Arabia: The largest economy in the Middle East, with ambitious Vision 2030 projects driving rapid economic diversification. Significant opportunities exist for entrepreneurs and investors, particularly in emerging sectors like technology, entertainment, and tourism. The Saudi Premium Residency supports this vision by attracting foreign capital and business creation. The Kingdom’s focus on mega-projects like NEOM presents unique long-term opportunities.
Caveats for Indian Applicants
While these programs offer immense benefits, Indian applicants should be aware of a few considerations:
- No Direct Path to Citizenship: None of these Gulf residency options (Bahrain, UAE, or Saudi Arabia) directly lead to citizenship. Dual citizenship is generally not permitted in these countries or India, so if a second passport for global mobility is the primary goal, these are not the direct routes.
- Maintaining Eligibility: If you qualify by property ownership or income, you must maintain that investment or income level for the duration of your visa. Selling assets or a significant drop in income could lead to visa cancellation.
- Real Estate Market Risks: While property investment is a route, be aware of the liquidity and market dynamics. Bahrain’s property market is smaller than Dubai’s, and reselling might take time.
- Cultural Adaptation: While all three countries are welcoming to expatriates, understanding and respecting local customs and traditions is essential for a smooth integration.
Final Words
Ultimately, the best residency program depends on individual priorities. If cost-effectiveness, work flexibility, and a family-friendly, relaxed environment are paramount, the Bahrain Golden Visa presents a compelling choice. If global connectivity, a dynamic business environment, and extensive infrastructure are your top priorities, the UAE Golden Visa remains a strong contender. For those seeking long-term security in a rapidly transforming economy with significant investment opportunities, Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency offers a unique proposition.
