Retiring from the Gulf? Why Portugal and Mauritius are top choices for expats
For expats preparing to leave the Gulf States to settle into retirement, Portugal and Mauritius are two of the most attractive options. Both offer laid-back lifestyles, beautiful natural surroundings and excellent healthcare. Here’s what you need to know.
Sarah Young ● Apr 10, 2025
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Many expats in the Gulf States planning to retire look for stable countries with a pleasant climate, favourable tax regimes and a high quality of life. While some expats in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar or Saudi Arabia do choose to retire in the region, long-term residency options are limited. Portugal’s D7 visa and Mauritius’ Non-Citizen Retirement Permit are two popular choices for individuals wanting to spend their golden years in sunny, safe and stable countries that offer a welcoming environment for expats. Below, we look at both options for retirees.
Portugal’s D7 visa
Who is it for?
Portugal’s D7 visa, commonly referred to as the passive income visa or Portugal’s retirement visa, is an excellent option for non-EU citizens, including retirees, who have a passive income and want to live in Portugal without needing to work.
Introduced in 2007, the visa does not require a significant financial outlay, such as purchasing property or making donations to the Portuguese government.
Successful applicants initially receive a two-year residence permit, renewable for three years. After five years, you can apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship.
Applicants must be able to prove they have a minimum passive monthly income of €870 (€10,440 per year) to acquire the D7 visa, and the passive income must be foreign-sourced.
The income can come from sources such as pensions, annuities, rental income, investments or interest on savings.
You will need to have sufficient savings to support yourself and your family during your first year of residency in Portugal.
- Main applicant: €10,440 per year
- Spouse: Additional 50% (€5,220 per year)
- Each dependant child: Additional 30% (€3,132 per year)
You will need to secure a tax identification number and a local bank account. You will also have to have a physical address in Portugal and no criminal record.
Benefits of the D7 visa
You will be able to:
- Qualify for citizenship in Portugal after five years
- Enjoy visa-free travel across the Schengen Area
- Have access to Portugal’s high-quality healthcare and excellent education system
- Bring your family to Portugal under the EU family reunification scheme
- Have a high quality of life at a lower cost than many Western European countries
Lifestyle and cost of living in Portugal
Portugal offers an affordable cost of living compared to many Western European countries, with Lisbon and Porto being more expensive than smaller towns or the Algarve region. Groceries, dining and transport costs are reasonable, making it attractive for retirees. Expats enjoy the Mediterranean climate, rich cultural heritage and laid-back lifestyle.
Healthcare in Portugal
Portugal’s healthcare system is one of the best in Europe. Expats can access the public healthcare system by registering with Portugal’s National Health Service (SNS) once they obtain residency. Many retirees opt for private healthcare, which is known for its quality and accessibility and is extremely affordable.
Minimum stay
The initial residency is valid for two years and can be renewed indefinitely if required. You’ll need to stay in Portugal for at least 16 months of your first two years in the country to maintain your status.
You also need to spend 28 months in the country during each subsequent three-year period.
Mauritius’ Non-Citizen Retirement Permit
Who is it for?
Mauritius’ Non-Citizen Retirement Permit is a great option for expats aged 50 or above who want to enjoy a beautiful tropical island lifestyle while benefiting from a favourable tax system and high standard of living.
Applicants can start the visa application online in their own country, but will need to enter Mauritius on a tourist visa during the application process to undergo all necessary medical tests.
The permit is for those wanting to retire, so you can’t work or run a business in Mauritius.
Non-Citizen Retirement Permit income retirements
To qualify, retirees must transfer $1,500 per month (or a lump sum of $18,000 per year) into a local Mauritian bank account from an external source.
Proof of these transfers must be provided to the Economic Development Board each year. The initial permit is valid for 10 years and is renewable.
Benefits of the Non-Citizen Retirement Permit
You will be able to:
- Potentially be eligible for permanent residency after three years
- Bring your spouse and children up to the age of 24
- Avoid paying inheritance tax or Capital Gains Tax
- Enjoy the low cost of living compared to the Gulf and other destinations such as Western Europe
- Relax in a safe environment with great weather and excellent food
Lifestyle and cost of living in Mauritius
Mauritius offers a more affordable cost of living than many Western countries. Housing, groceries and dining are reasonably priced, although imported goods can be expensive. The island is known for its white sandy beaches, turquoise lagoons and an abundance of outdoor activities such as golf, diving and yoga.
Healthcare in Mauritius
Mauritius has both public and private healthcare systems, with private hospitals offering high-quality services and shorter wait times. Many expats opt for private health insurance to ensure access to the best care available.
Minimum stay requirements
Mauritius does not have a minimum stay requirement once you obtain the retirement residence permit, offering flexibility to retirees who may wish to travel frequently.
If you’re preparing to leave the UAE, Qatar or Saudi Arabia and are considering retiring in Portugal or Mauritius, it's important to do your planning early to avoid unexpected and costly mistakes.
Our expert advisers will be in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh and Doha from 7 to 13 May and would love to meet with you for an in-person consultation to give you valuable, complimentary advice on how to ensure a smooth transition when you leave the region.