The first time in the Middle East someone got this visa

[ihabkal]

Dear friends and especially Qorax,
I recently was awarded a self employed slef sponsored temporary work visa, this was the first time they give one or had anyone apply like me (I'm an artist), I applied for immigration as a self employed person in 2006, I am planning to move there in a few short weeks. My question is once there, I will probalby be given a 2 year work and residence permit and then it might or might not be renewed only once. So either 2 or 4 years.
WHAT CAN I DO TO STAY THERE FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE?
what are my options? what if my immigration takes till 2016 they are so slow in Damascus. what if I get rejected? What are the legal means once I am there to stay permanently?
Thanks for any advice...