Settling in Saudi Arabia Your Complete Guide to Moving and Living in the Kingdom

Your Complete Guide to Moving and Living in the Kingdom

Moving to Saudi Arabia is an exciting opportunity, though the country still feels unfamiliar to many. With professional prospects rapidly growing, the number of expats continues to rise. But how do you prepare for life in the Kingdom? What paperwork is required? Where should you live? And what does everyday life look like?

This guide covers everything you need to know before relocating to Saudi Arabia, from visas and residence permits to housing, work, healthcare, and culture.

Note: You’ll also find links to detailed city-specific guides (Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Al Khobar, and Dhahran) covering schools, neighborhoods, compounds, and more.

 

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Key Topics

• Administrative procedures

• Visas and residence permits (Iqama)

• Moving and shipping belongings

• Housing options

• Language Resources

• Working and doing business

• Transportation

• Telecommunications

• Healthcare

• Family life, education, and childcare

• Daily life and culture

• Tourism and leisure

• The expat and French-speaking community

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Administrative Formalities

1. Getting a Visa

Saudi Arabia offers several visa types: tourist, family visit, transit, business, temporary work, residence, and religious (Umrah/Hajj). Each has specific requirements and processes.

2. Residence Permit – Iqama

Expats employed in Saudi Arabia must obtain an Iqama, a residence permit sponsored by their employer. It is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. Holders can also apply for permits for immediate family members.

Since 2019, Saudi Arabia has introduced a Premium Residency Program (PRP), which allows foreigners to live and work in the country without a sponsor. Expanded in 2024, it now includes categories for talent, gifted individuals, investors, entrepreneurs, and property owners—aligning with Vision 2030’s economic diversification goals.

3. Passport and Entry Rules

Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond entry. Travelers with Israeli stamps are no longer restricted (except Israeli citizens, who need special permission).

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Moving to Saudi Arabia

You’ll find almost everything locally, so shipping all belongings isn’t always necessary. Many compounds also offer furnished housing.

If you do ship goods, compare moving companies carefully, checking transport conditions, insurance coverage, delivery times, and hidden costs. Expats often recommend agencies such as Rapid Move, Grospiron International, and Spring Movers.

Prohibited items: alcohol, pork, pornography, and non-prescription medication. Due to extreme heat, avoid shipping items like candles or certain cosmetics.

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Housing

After receiving your Iqama, you can sign a rental contract. Expats usually choose compounds for convenience, security, and community life, though rents are rising. Increasingly, some live outside compounds using apps like Bayut, Zaahib, or Aqar.

Outside compounds, the Ejar system regulates landlord-tenant relations.

• Language Resources
  One of the best resources to begin with is Learn Saudi Arabic and Culture a complete platform that not only teaches the Saudi dialect but also immerses you in traditions, customs, and cultural experiences.

Work and Business

• Finding a job: You must secure employment before arriving. Most expats are transferred by multinational companies or hired for specific skills. Vision 2030 projects are creating major opportunities.

• Working conditions: Contracts, salaries, hours, and benefits vary by industry and company.

• Starting a business: Foreigners can now establish companies in Saudi Arabia, sometimes with 100% ownership (depending on the sector). The Saudi Investment Authority (SAGIA) provides details.

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Transportation

Cars remain the main form of transport due to city layouts and limited public systems (though metro projects are underway). Expect traffic congestion and drive cautiously.

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Telecommunications

Major providers: STC, Mobily, and Zain, plus newcomers like Virgin Mobile and Lebara. Prepaid and contract options are available, but you’ll need your Iqama or passport to register.

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Healthcare

Saudi healthcare is modern and well-staffed, though free services are reserved for nationals. Expats require private health insurance (usually provided by employers). Women’s healthcare access has improved, though restrictions remain on some medications and procedures.

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Family Life

• Education: Options include French and international schools, though tuition can be expensive and spaces limited. Apply early.

• Home help: Nannies and maids are common, available through direct hiring or agencies. Salaries and costs vary depending on arrangements.

• Pets: Import rules are strict—start paperwork at least two months in advance.

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Everyday Life

• Cost of living: High in major cities, especially for imported goods. VAT is 15%.

• Climate: Hot summers (up to 45°C), mild winters (as low as 8°C in Riyadh), and occasional heavy rains.

• Alcohol: Completely banned.

• Religion: Islam shapes daily life; Ramadan requires special respect for fasting customs.

• Dress code: Women no longer need to wear abayas but should dress modestly. Men should avoid shorts in public.

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Tourism and Leisure

Since 2019, Saudi Arabia has welcomed international tourists. Highlights include:

• AlUla (UNESCO heritage site)

• Red Sea beaches for diving and water sports

• Major projects like NEOM and The Line

• Cultural seasons in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Diriyah

Museums, concerts, Formula 1 races, and festivals are becoming regular features of Saudi life.

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Local People and Culture

Saudis are generally warm and welcoming. With Vision 2030 reforms, the Kingdom is opening up economically, socially, and culturally. Beyond deserts, you’ll find mountains, forests, and coastlines surprising many first-time visitors.