As the Middle East continues to pivot toward knowledge-based economies and global innovation, a new era of borderless opportunity has emerged. This opportunity is for foreign investors, high-level executives, and entrepreneurs. Securing Long Term Visas in Oman and Qatar has been made increasingly accessible through new programs. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations are moving aggressively beyond traditional employer-sponsored visa models. This offers long-term stability and asset ownership rights. For those looking to establish a secure foothold in the region, Oman and Qatar have launched highly competitive residency frameworks in 2026.

Oman’s Golden Visa: Residency Through Property and Investment

Relaunched on August 31, 2025, through the official Invest Oman platform, Oman’s Golden Visa framework is designed to attract foreign capital with highly flexible residency options. Crucially, this program removes the need for a traditional local sponsor. It allows investors to establish independent roots in the country and include immediate family members under the same permit.

The program offers two primary tiers based on real estate investment:

• Tier One (10-Year Residency): Requires owning property valued at a minimum of OMR 500,000.

• Tier Two (5-Year Residency): Requires purchasing property worth at least OMR 250,000.

Foreigners can purchase real estate with full rights in specific government-approved zones, such as Integrated Tourism Complexes (ITCs). This enables them to build wealth in a tax-friendly environment while securing long-term regional access.

Qatar’s 2026 Executive and Entrepreneur Permits

Qatar has rapidly evolved its immigration pathways to compete for global talent. In early February 2026, the country launched two new long-term residence permit categories. This allows eligible foreign nationals to live and work in Qatar for up to 10 years without traditional sponsorship.

• Executive Long-Term Residence Permit: This pathway is designed specifically for senior professionals holding leadership roles in qualifying organizations within Qatar.

• Entrepreneur Long-Term Residence Permit: Built for founders looking to launch or expand a business, this permit requires an official endorsement letter from an incubator (such as Start Up Qatar). Additionally, applicants must prove financial capacity by maintaining a minimum bank balance of USD 10,000 (approximately QAR 36,500) over the previous three months.

For individuals seeking permanent roots, Qatar also offers a Permanent Residency (PR) card for those who invest a minimum of QAR 3,650,000 (approximately USD 1,000,000) in specified real estate zones.

Whether your goal is securing a Golden Visa through real estate in Oman or launching a globally integrated startup in Qatar, Merinatt Travels provides the strategic guidance required to eliminate bureaucratic barriers. our team of experts will assist you t seamlessly integrate your life and business into the Middle East.