LuLu Group chairman Yusuff Ali becomes first recipient of Kuwait’s 15-year Golden Residency visa

Kuwait has launched its new long-term residency programme by issuing its first-ever 15-year Golden Residency permit to Indian billionaire and retail entrepreneur Yusuff Ali MA, chairman and managing director of LuLu Group International.

The landmark residency was handed over by Kuwait’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Fahad Yusuf Saud Al-Sabah during a ceremony in Kuwait City. Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Support Security Services Brigadier General Fawaz Al-Roumi was also present at the event.

Kuwait’s first Golden Residency milestone

The issuance of the Golden Residency marks the official rollout of Kuwait’s new long-term residency framework.

Unlike traditional residency permits that often require frequent renewals and are linked to employment sponsorship, the new system offers greater stability for selected categories of investors and professionals.

The programme is designed to attract high-value investments, strengthen economic growth and create a more business-friendly environment as Kuwait works towards diversifying its economy beyond oil.

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Sheikh Fahad Al-Sabah said the initiative reflects Kuwait’s commitment to building an investment-friendly ecosystem.

“Granting the Golden Residency reflects the state’s commitment to providing a stable, highly supportive and investment-friendly environment,” he said, adding that the programme would boost confidence in Kuwait’s administrative and legal systems.

The framework was developed through cooperation between Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior, Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority (KDIPA) and the Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI).

Why Yusuff Ali was chosen as first recipient

The decision to award the first Golden Residency to Yusuff Ali highlights his long-standing contribution to Kuwait’s economy.

Under his leadership, LuLu Group has expanded its presence across Kuwait and the wider Gulf region, operating a large network of hypermarkets, supermarkets and shopping centres.

The company has played a major role in Kuwait’s retail sector, contributing to food supply chains, consumer markets and employment opportunities for thousands of people, including Kuwaiti citizens and expatriates.

By selecting Yusuff Ali as the first recipient, Kuwait has also sent a message to international investors that long-term economic contributions and business commitments will receive greater institutional support.

What Kuwait’s Golden Residency offers

The new residency system is aimed at attracting high-net-worth individuals, investors, entrepreneurs, senior executives and highly skilled professionals.

Key features include:

The Golden Residency programme comes as Gulf nations compete to attract international capital and expertise.

Countries across the region have introduced long-term visa schemes in recent years as part of efforts to encourage economic diversification and reduce dependence on oil revenues.