Saudi Arabia has granted citizenship to a select group of scientists, doctors, researchers, innovators, and entrepreneurs with exceptional capabilities and specializations.
This initiative aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to create an attractive environment and attract and retain exceptional global talent to enhance the kingdom’s economic and social development.
The Royal decree to grant citizenship to experts in various fields, including medical, scientific, cultural, sports, and technological domains, supports the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals. This strategic move is expected to significantly contribute to the development of multiple sectors and foster an ecosystem of innovation and creativity in Saudi Arabia.
Meet the first recipients
Here is a list of the Saudi citizenship recipients:
- Islam Zween, CEO of Argaam – Zween is a pioneer in the Arab media landscape, emphasizing educational and profitable content. With a Master’s degree from Alexandria University and over 25 years of experience in technology, media, and business management, Zween has launched successful digital projects like Argaam Financial Portal and Akhbaar 24.com, transforming Argaam into a leading financial media provider in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region.
- Mehmood Khan, CEO of Hevolution Foundation – Pakistani-American scientist Mehmood Khan leads the first nonprofit organization Hevolution Foundation to fund biotechnology research through grants. With an MD and over a decade of experience, Khan has managed programs including diabetes, endocrinology, and nutrition trials unit at the Mayo Clinic and served as the Chief Scientific Officer at PepsiCo.
- Jackie Y. Ying, Nanotechnology Scientist – Professor Ying, an American scientist of Singaporean origin, has an extensive background in biomedical engineering and nanotechnology. She has led the NanoBio Lab and has been recognized globally for her contributions to science and technology. Jackie Ying is the chair of the Bioengineering & Nanomedicine Department, at King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center.
- Niveen Khashab, Founding Member of KAUST – A Lebanese scientist specializing in bioengineering and nanomaterials, Khashab has been an associate professor at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) since 2009. She was awarded the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Award in 2017 for her innovations in drug delivery and antioxidant activity observation.
- Noreddine Ghaffour, Water Desalination Expert – A French scientist with a PhD in membrane separation techniques, Ghaffour specializes in water desalination and has contributed significantly to environmental science and renewable energy research.
- Faraz Khalid, CEO of Noon – An Indian entrepreneur with an MBA from the Wharton School, Khalid co-founded Namshi and currently leads Noon, a major e-commerce platform. His efforts have significantly advanced the digital commerce landscape in the region.
- Dr. Moutassem Azzubi, neurosurgeon – A Syrian neurosurgeon, Azzubi is renowned for his work in conjoined twin separation surgeries and contributions to the Saudi Conjoined Twins Programme. He is currently the Chief of Pediatric Neurosurgery at King Abdullah Specialized Children’s Hospital in Riyadh.
- Rami Al-Qawasmi, CEO of Mawdoo3.com – A Jordanian entrepreneur known for his passion for artificial intelligence (AI), Al-Qawasmi has created over 10 companies before the age of 30. Under his leadership, Mawdoo3.com raised $23.5 million in a funding round, showcasing his innovative approach to digital content.
- Ahmed Mirghani, Partner at BIM Ventures – A Sudanese entrepreneur with an MBA in entrepreneurship, Mirghani co-founded BIM Ventures and the “Angel Investor Mine” network, significantly impacting the venture capital and entrepreneurship ecosystem in Saudi Arabia.
