Carina Castelo Branco, Regional Manager in the Middle East: "The Middle East is Emerging as a Strategic Migration Corridor"

Interview with Carina Castelo Branco

As a Regional Manager in the Middle East, how important is this region in the migration by investment landscape?

The Middle East, particularly the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, plays an increasingly pivotal role in the migration by investment landscape. This importance stems from several converging factors: rapid economic development, strategic geographic positioning, and a large expatriate population seeking enhanced mobility.

As of 2025, the UAE’s population stands at 11.35 million, with expatriates making up 88.5% of that figure. In Saudi Arabia, there are approximately 13.45 million expatriates, making it one of the top countries globally in terms of immigrant population. Collectively, expatriates account for over 50.9% of the total population across GCC countries.

In essence, the Middle East is emerging as a strategic migration corridor—where investment migration is not only relevant but increasingly essential for a large and growing population of globally-minded individuals.

You often participate in different events in the region to present Mercan’s opportunities how important are these events for building new connections?

Participating in regional events is absolutely vital for building new connections and expanding Mercan’s footprint in the Middle East. These platforms offer a unique opportunity to engage directly with potential investors, partners, and stakeholders in a dynamic and culturally relevant setting. The Middle East is a relationship-driven market, and face-to-face interactions at conferences, expos, and networking forums help establish trust and credibility—especially in sectors like migration by investment, where personal and financial decisions are deeply intertwined.

Events also allow us to showcase Mercan’s global opportunities in a tailored way, addressing the specific needs and aspirations of the region’s diverse expatriate population. Moreover, these gatherings often attract high-net-worth individuals and decision-makers from Southeast Asia, Africa, and the GCC, many of whom are actively seeking solutions to enhance their global mobility. By being present and visible, we not only build new connections but also reinforce Mercan’s position as a trusted leader in the investment migration space. In short, these events are not just about visibility; they’re about meaningful engagement, strategic partnerships, and long-term growth.

What key factors drive Middle Eastern investors to seek residency programs in Europe, particularly in countries like Portugal and Greece?

Middle Eastern investors are increasingly drawn to European residency programs - especially in Portugal and Greece - due to a combination of strategic, lifestyle, and mobility-related factors. These programs offer a compelling mix of benefits that align closely with the needs and aspirations of investors from the region. Many Middle Eastern nationals or residents hold passports with limited visa-free access. Residency in Portugal or Greece provides visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone, covering 27 European countries.

This is particularly valuable for business owners, frequent travelers, and families seeking unrestricted movement, and both offer a clear pathway to citizenship. This long-term benefit is a major draw for investors seeking a secure future for their families. Programs in both countries extend to spouses, children, and dependent parents. Portugal and Greece offer a stable political environment and EU membership, which is appealing to investors from regions facing geopolitical uncertainty. Portugal and Greece are also known for their welcoming cultures, Mediterranean climates, and rich histories. These factors resonate well with Middle Eastern investors seeking a comfortable and familiar lifestyle abroad. Bem-vindos! Καλώς ήρθατε!

How do the Portugal and the Greece residency programs differ from others, and why are they attractive for Middle East Investors? 

Portugal and Greece offer two of the most competitive and investor-friendly residency-by-investment programs in Europe. While both provide access to the Schengen Zone and a pathway to EU citizenship, they differ in structure, investment options, and residency requirements—making them uniquely appealing to Middle Eastern investors.

 These Programs Are Attractive to Middle Eastern Investors and offer Visa-Free Travel Across Europe. Both programs grant access to the Schengen Zone, allowing visa-free travel to 27 European countries—an invaluable benefit for Middle Eastern nationals with limited passport mobility.

 - Strategic Investment Opportunities:

• Portugal offers diversified investment options such as venture capital funds and cultural contributions, ideal for investors seeking long-term returns and portfolio diversification.
• Greece remains attractive for those preferring tangible assets like property, starting in 250k€.
• Middle Eastern investors often travel frequently or reside in multiple countries. Greece’s no-stay requirement and Portugal’s minimal stay requirement make the programs highly convenient.
• Both programs allow investors to include family members, offering access to European healthcare, education, and lifestyle benefits—key priorities for Middle Eastern families.
• Similarly, offer a safe and stable environment for wealth preservation, especially appealing to investors from regions facing geopolitical uncertainty.

Portugal and Greece stand out not only for their residency benefits but also for their flexibility, affordability, and strategic value. For Middle Eastern investors, these programs offer a gateway to Europe, enhanced mobility, and a secure future for their families.

Mercan recently entered the Greek market with Keranis Residences. What makes this project attractive for investors from the Middle East?

Keranis Residences, Mercan’s flagship development in Greece, is a standout investment opportunity due to its strategic location, Golden Visa eligibility, and strong financial returns. This is especially attractive to Middle Eastern investors whose current passports may limit global mobility, as previously mentioned.

Aligning well with the investment goals of high-net-worth individuals seeking both lifestyle and financial benefits, the project offers 3% guaranteed annual return for 10 years, an estimated capital appreciation of 4%–7% annually, and professional property management, ensuring secure and passive income.

Its prime location in Piraeus, just 20 minutes from Athens’s city center, the largest mixed-use urban living with 400+ furnished residential units, retail, offices, and many other facilities, offers a seamless path to EU residency, enhanced mobility, and a secure high-potential investment in one of Greece´s most dynamic urban hubs.

You work closely with many stakeholders. How do you see investment migration evolving in the coming years, especially in the Middle East?

Investment migration in the Middle East is entering a transformative phase, shaped by evolving investor priorities, regulatory shifts, and global economic dynamics. As someone who works closely with stakeholders across the region, I see several key developments and emerging trends that will define the future of this sector. Middle Eastern investors - especially family offices and HNWIs - are increasingly viewing investment migration as a tool for intergenerational wealth protection, succession planning, and global access.

Programs offering long-term residency and citizenship are being integrated into broader financial and legacy strategies. Countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman are launching or expanding their own residency-by-investment programs, offering long-term visas, tax incentives, and business ownership rights. These programs are attracting both inbound investors and encouraging outbound diversification.

Globally, investment migration programs are undergoing stricter compliance and vetting. This is improving transparency and credibility, which is crucial for Middle Eastern investors who value reputation and legitimacy in their international.

Investment migration in the Middle East is evolving from a discretionary choice to a strategic necessity. The future will be shaped by regional innovation, global diversification, and a growing emphasis on sustainability, security, and legacy. Stakeholders must adapt to these trends to remain relevant and responsive to investor needs.

Mercan has over 35 years of experience in investment migration. What do we do differently that makes investors trust us year after year?

Mercan’s enduring success in investment migration is built on a foundation of credibility, innovation, and client-centric service. With over 35 years of global experience, we’ve consistently earned the trust of thousands of investors by doing things differently - and doing them right.

With a proven track record, we are known for pioneering new investment categories. Our global presence and expertise combine global reach with local insight. Our approach resonates with investors who seek ethical, high-impact ventures that go beyond financial returns. Never forgetting our multilingual, multicultural teams offer end-to-end support—from investment selection to residency application—ensuring a seamless and secure journey for each and every client.

Mercan’s reputation is built on results, relationships, and responsibility. Investors trust us year after year because we deliver more than just residency - we deliver peace of mind, strategic value, and a future they can count on.

At Mercan, our values are the foundation of everything we do. We lead with respect, driven by a deep commitment to our clients, our people, and our global community. Our passion fuels excellence, and our ethics and accountability ensure we operate with integrity and transparency. We embrace diversity, celebrating every culture and perspective, because inclusion strengthens us. Integrity is non-negotiable; it defines our character. Through innovation, we create smart, impactful solutions, and through collaboration, we achieve more together. Above all, we deliver security and trust, because our clients know we stand by our promises—every step of the way.