How Did Prominent Egyptian TV Host Amr Adib Obtain Saudi Arabian Citizenship?
Strict Naturalization Laws
• Saudi Arabia’s nationality law sets conditions like 5 years of continuous residence, good conduct without criminal sentences over 6 months, and perceived benefit to the nation.
2019 Royal Decree
• In 2019, a royal decree opened citizenship for exceptional foreigners in Islamic, medical, scientific, cultural, athletic, and technical fields.
Egyptian Talent Recruitment
• In 2021, royal orders granted citizenship to qualified Egyptians as part of a talent recruitment initiative for Saudi progress.
Notable New Citizens
• Egyptian engineer and tech entrepreneur Amr Awadallah and ex-Google X senior executive Mohammad Ali Joudat were among the Egyptians naturalized.
Amr Adib’s Announcement
• During his talk show, Egyptian TV personality Amr Adib announced receiving Saudi citizenship, thanking King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the “honor and privilege.”
In Conclusion
• While nationality law poses strict requirements, Saudi Arabia makes exceptions through special decrees to recruit exceptional talent like Mr. Adib to drive development.