New Delhi

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has decided to grant citizenship to foreigners as it opens its economy and ease strict Islamic laws impact women and expatriates in anticipation of its soon-to-exhaust oil.

A royal decree issued by Saudi Arabia’s government on Thursday said, professionals with special skills in law, medical, scientific, cultural, sports and technical fields can apply for Saudi citizenship.

According to Saudi Arabia's state-run news agency SPA, the royal decree is part of Vision 2030, which aims to create an environment in Saudi Arabia that provides opportunities for specialized professionals from around the world.

Under the letter, immigrants with specialized skills in legal, medical, scientific, technical, cultural and sports fields are allowed to obtain Saudi citizenship. The move is aimed at boosting growth and diversifying the economy.

The decision is also in line with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to promote a business-friendly environment that is attractive to qualified professionals. The initiative to grant citizenship is also part of Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman's plans for economic and social reform.

The new system will provide an opportunity for experts and investors to establish deep roots in the country.

Across the Gulf, especially in Saudi Arabia, it is impossible to obtain citizenship because it is not traditionally granted to foreigners. In December 2019, Saudi Arabia announced that it was planning to grant citizenship to prominent professionals.

In fact, 'Vision 2030', announced by the Crown Prince in 2016, is an ambitious scheme aimed at reshaping the nation's economy to be self-sufficient, developed and diverse, and a powerhouse of global investment.

In 2019, Saudi Arabia opened its doors to foreign tourists to expand country's tourism sector and economy.

Saudi Arabia becomes the second Gulf country after the UAE to formalize a process aimed at giving expatriates a bigger stake in the economy after the UAE announced its own naturalization program for exceptional foreigners in January.