Qatar has launched two new residency visa categories aimed at high-growth entrepreneurs and senior executives, reinforcing the country’s strategy to attract global talent, accelerate innovation, and strengthen its investment ecosystem.

His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar, announced the new visas during his official remarks at the opening night of Web Summit Qatar 2026. 

The residency visa for executives targets talented senior professionals contributing to Qatar’s private sector growth and development. 

The residency visa for entrepreneurs provides a dedicated pathway for founders, partners and innovators who aim to establish their investment projects or expand their businesses within Qatar’s thriving and fast-growing business environment. 

Holders of the new residency visas can access a range of professional and lifestyle benefits, including a long term, self-sponsored residency for a five-year period with option to renew and priority access to business support programs and innovation networks. The benefits also include structured pathways to facilitate onboarding, licensing and work permits, as well as direct engagement with Qatar’s ecosystem of incubators, accelerators and strategic partners.

Commenting on the announcement, Sheikh Ali bin Alwaleed Al Thani, CEO of Invest Qatar, said, “Qatar’s growth story is powered by people, by innovators, leaders and builders who recognize the opportunities created by our future focused economy. The launch of these residency visas represents a significant step in attracting global talent and enabling them to thrive in Qatar, contributing to the development of high impact ventures, while strengthening Qatar’s position as a leading, attractive, and highly competitive global destination closely connected to international business hubs, in line with the Third National Development Strategy.”

Abdulrahman bin Hesham Al‑Sowaidi, CEO of Qatar Development Bank, said, “The introduction of the new Residency Visas marks an important milestone in strengthening Qatar’s entrepreneurial and private sector landscape. It paves the way toward achieving the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030 to build a knowledge-based economy. This new residency also enables entrepreneurs to establish and expand their businesses in Qatar, which offers high quality of life, world-class infrastructure and a supportive business environment.”

He added, “At Qatar Development Bank, we are committed to supporting the attraction of global talent by providing access to funding, capital, capability development, and market opportunities that enable entrepreneurs and executives to innovate, grow, and contribute to diversifying the national economy and enhancing its competitiveness.”