India (Commonwealth Union)_ Kuwait has officially launched its new long-term residency visa program by granting its first 15-year Golden Residency visa to Indian billionaire and LuLu Group International chairman and managing director, Yusuff Ali MA. The historic residency permit was presented during a ceremony in Kuwait City by First Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Fahad Yusuf Saud Al-Sabah. Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Support Security Services Brigadier General Fawaz Al-Roumi also attended the event. The award marks the beginning of Kuwait’s Golden Residency system, a new initiative designed to provide long-term stability for selected investors, business leaders and skilled professionals.
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Unlike traditional residency permits, which are usually linked to a job and need to be renewed periodically, the new program provides eligible people with a renewable 15-year residency with more flexibility and security. Kuwait introduced the scheme as part of its broader plan to attract foreign investment, encourage innovation and stimulate its economy beyond the oil sector. Speaking at the ceremony, Sheikh Fahad Al-Sabah said the Golden Residency reflects the country’s commitment to creating a stable and welcoming environment for investors. He added that the program is expected to increase confidence in Kuwait’s legal and administrative systems while supporting long-term economic growth.
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The residency framework was developed through cooperation between the Ministry of Interior, the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority and the Public Authority for Civil Information. Yusuff Ali was chosen as the first recipient in recognition of his significant contribution to Kuwait’s economy over several decades. Under his leadership, LuLu Group has built a strong presence across Kuwait and the Gulf region, operating a wide network of hypermarkets, supermarkets and shopping malls. The company has supported food security, expanded the retail sector and created thousands of jobs for both Kuwaiti citizens and expatriates.
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The Golden Residency program targets major investors, entrepreneurs, senior executives and highly skilled professionals. It also allows eligible recipients to extend residency benefits to their immediate family members. Kuwait joins other Gulf nations that have introduced long-term residency programs to attract global talent, encourage investment and support economic diversification beyond oil revenues.
