Saudi Arabia for Expats: More Accessible Than Ever

Saudi Arabia has undergone a remarkable social transformation over the past several years. Entertainment venues, international restaurants, cinemas, and mixed-gender public spaces have become part of everyday life. For expats arriving today, the experience is considerably different — and more welcoming — than even a decade ago.

Visas and Residency

Most expats in Saudi Arabia live on an Iqama (residency permit), which is sponsored by an employer. Key facts:

  • Your employer (sponsor) initiates the process before you arrive.
  • The Iqama is tied to your employer under the traditional kafala system, though reforms have given workers more flexibility to change jobs.
  • Premium Residency (Green Card): Saudi Arabia offers a pathway to permanent residency for high-net-worth individuals and specialized professionals, without requiring employer sponsorship.
  • Tourist visas are now available to nationals of many countries, including e-visa options for short stays.

Finding Housing

Expats typically live in one of three types of accommodation:

  • Employer-provided compounds: Gated residential communities with shared amenities (pools, gyms, community centers). Common in the Eastern Province (Aramco housing) and Riyadh.
  • Private apartments: Widely available in all major cities. Areas like Al Olaya, Al Malaz (Riyadh), and Al Hamra (Jeddah) are popular with expats.
  • Private villas: Available for families wanting more space, typically in suburban areas.

Online platforms such as Bayut and Property Finder list thousands of properties across the Kingdom.

Healthcare

Saudi Arabia has both public and private healthcare. Expats are generally covered by employer-provided private health insurance, which is mandatory by law. Major cities have excellent private hospitals, including:

  • Saudi German Hospital (multiple cities)
  • Dr. Sulaiman Al-Habib Medical Group
  • King Faisal Specialist Hospital (Riyadh)

Education for Expat Families

Most expat families choose international schools, which follow British, American, IB, or Indian curricula. Major cities have a wide selection. Schools tend to be oversubscribed, so apply early — ideally 6–12 months before your planned start date.

Daily Life Essentials

  • Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR). Pegged to the USD at approximately 3.75 SAR per USD.
  • Language: Arabic is official; English is widely spoken in business and urban areas.
  • Weekend: Friday–Saturday (Sunday is a working day).
  • Shopping: Enormous malls dominate retail. Online shopping via Noon, Amazon.sa, and Salla is very popular.
  • Driving: Expats can drive on an international driving licence initially; an Saudi licence is required for longer stays.
  • Alcohol: Prohibited in Saudi Arabia. Non-alcoholic alternatives are widely available.

Cultural Tips for New Arrivals

Saudi society is warm and hospitable. A few cultural pointers go a long way:

  • Greet with As-salamu alaykum — the response is Wa alaykum as-salam.
  • During Ramadan, eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours is not permitted.
  • Dress modestly in public spaces, particularly outside of Western compounds and hotels.
  • Business relationships are built on personal trust — invest time in relationship-building before jumping to transactions.