21 Secrets About Living In Saudi Arabia To Know Before Moving

Moving to Saudi Arabia will be quite a culture shock for most of us, but adapting to a new way of life can also be exciting.

There are a few things to consider before making a move, so we’ve collated some of our top tips and secrets to help you decide!

Sections

1. The cost of living in Saudi Arabia

Rent will undoubtedly be your biggest expense in Saudi Arabia – they don’t make allowances for expats, so your rent will likely take up a third of your salary. However, groceries are relatively cheap, almost 75% lower than in Western countries.

Eating out or buying imported goods will put a big dent in your wallet, but on the other hand, the price of gas remains low and they don’t levy an income tax. Although some things are costly, you will have a high standard of living!

2. The country is centered on religion

Interpretations of the Quran firmly rule life in Saudi Arabia, and these views and values influence the way all of their laws are applied. Saudi Arabia is a very traditional society entirely governed by rules, firm religious beliefs, and traditions. Foreigners are not exempt from them.

Religion extends into all aspects of life in Saudi society, from family life to the business world. For example, even in their visual arts, any representation of humanity is strictly forbidden, so they can only use abstract, floral, or geometric designs.

You should note that there is no freedom of expression or freedom of religion, so you will need to adjust to their ways.

3. Respect the religion

When in public, even expats need to dress conservatively. Women should wear a loose over-garment called an abaya. The veil is not necessary for non-Muslim and non-Saudi women, but it is best to carry a headscarf in case.

Men should wear long shirts and trousers. Most of their religious practices are governed by the law, and the rules vary based on gender.

As an expat, you should respect their way of life and religion as you live in their country. Not doing so can lead to arrest, imprisonment, or worse. This has probably spooked you a little bit, but it is crucial to note the importance placed on religion in Saudi Arabia.

4. English is widely spoken

Although Arabic is their official language, English is used in the business world. It’s a compulsory subject at school, so everyone learns it as a second language – you shouldn’t struggle with the language barrier!

5. The weather in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has a desert climate that is warm and dry, and temperatures are generally quite high around the country. The maximum temperature in summer is between 104°F and 114°F. It cools down slightly during the night. In the South, the temperature can go as low as 50°F during summer and winter nights can be freezing.

Since it is so dry, there is also hardly any rain. But you can expect sandstorms (seen above), about 12-30 hit Saudi Arabia a year. They generally happen during the spring or in early summer.

6. Saudi Arabia’s healthcare system

The healthcare system in Saudi Arabia is fantastic. All major cities have private and public health clinics with top-class equipment and well-trained staff. Most of the medical personnel and doctors are foreigners, meaning that many speak English, which is excellent for foreign residents.

Their public healthcare system provides low-cost or free treatments to all citizens. You will need to get a private health insurance plan as an expat. This comes at a price but has loads of benefits like luxury accommodation and no waiting time. However, their general waiting time is low in public and private hospitals.

7. Visa information for working in Saudi Arabia

The Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will provide you with all of the information needed for transitioning to Saudi Arabia.

Business visa

If you are coming for work or a commercial visit, you will need a business visa. This is if you need to make short visits for discussions, training events, or meetings. You have two options; a single entry visa valid for three months or a multiple entry visa valid for six months.

To apply, you will need a valid passport for six months or more and has two consecutive empty visa pages. You will also need an electronic invitation letter from the Saudi-based company and, an employment verification letter from your employer, a copy of the business registration in Saudi Arabia and the US.

Employment visa

An employment visa has similar requirements to a business visa. You will also need a digital power of attorney from your Saudi employer produced by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs and a visa referral note from the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs stating the number and date of the visa.

You will also need a letter from the company certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Saudi Chamber of Commerce, along with a copy of your employment contract with all relevant signatures and certifications. You’ll also need a copy of your university diploma or degree, a medical report, and a police report.

8. Living in Saudi Arabia as an expat

Job opportunities

There are incredible job opportunities in Saudi Arabia, especially in industries where Saudi nationals lack training and education. Many companies want expats working for them, and there are a lot of opportunities for advancing your career. Promising sectors include law, medicine, real estate, construction, banking, and IT.

It is generally better to go to the country with a job offer, as it may be more challenging to find work there due to the Saudi government implementing Saudization requirements.

Expat women

It is more challenging to find work as a female, and you will need to meet specific criteria. You will need to be permitted by your husband or guardian to find work, and many companies need to adhere to strict rules when hiring women, so in many cases, they avoid hiring women.

The law permits women to only work in certain sectors such as childcare, dressmaking, cleaning, and education – so work is available, but can be hard to find.

9. The quality of life in Saudi Arabia

Many expats enjoy a high quality of life while living in the Middle East as they can live a life of luxury due to their disposable incomes and great employment packages – the education and housing systems are also good.

However, female expats may struggle as their quality of life will change quite drastically and can become quite restrictive.

10. How to get around in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia boasts one of the best transportation networks. Their public transport is well managed and affordable, it consists of more than 2000 buses. You can also get around by train, Uber, and the metro. There are also three international airports.

11. It’s the largest country in the world without a river

Since Saudi Arabia is mainly desert, rivers can not sustain themselves. Most of the country is made up of arid deserts, lowlands, and mountains.

12. Education in Saudi Arabia

Public schools

Public school is only open to residents, citizens, or Muslim expats. It is gender-segregated, and its main focus is on studying Islam.

The law requires students need to attend six years of primary school, and government-run schools are free. They speak Arabic at public schools.

Private tuition

Most private schools speak in English, are not as controlled by the government, and are co-educational – making them an excellent choice for expats. Private schools either follow international certifications or the Saudi national educational curriculum.

International schools

International schools are your best bet, their education models are great, but there is limited space. International schools also have all levels of schooling under one roof. Tuition fees can also be pretty high.

13. Politics, Government & Sharia law

Their justice system is based on Sharia law, so consuming alcohol in public, prostitution, drug possession, and adultery are all punishable offenses. One should also avoid any religious activity that is not related to Islam.

The king acts as the government and head of state, it is an Islamic Theocracy, and the Quran acts as the constitution.

14. Food and drink in Saudi Arabia

Food is a big part of their culture, as their customs and heritage influence it. Most dishes include potatoes, rice, spices, lamb, chicken, yogurt, dates, and bread. Some popular dishes include ruz al bukhari, mutabbaq (pictured above), and harees.

The selling, consuming, brewing, and importation of alcohol is banned. If you are found with alcohol in your possession, you may be deported or imported. This applies to tourists and residents.

15. The work-life balance

Saudi Arabia has a 48-hour workweek. You can benefit from public holidays, paid leave, and maternity leave, so relaxing and getting time off are possible.

Though work life is a bit different for women, there is more restriction in terms of where they can work and how much they earn.

16. There are no bars or nightclubs

It is a very conservative place, and due to the ban on alcohol, there are no nightclubs or bars. Their nightlife revolves around fine dining and shopping.

There are loads of Michelin Star restaurants where you can go and eat your heart out!

17. Is it safe to live in Saudi Arabia

Yes, it is. There are very few instances of petty crimes, and the threat level is low due to their harsh punishments and laws. Most expat families live in Western compounds with tight security. You will never escape crime, wherever you live, so it is best to be alert.

18. LGBT+ relationships and homosexuality is illegal

This is due to Sharia Law, and they are all criminal offenses. The government does not recognize these rights, as their law comes from the traditions of Muhammed and the seventh-century Quran.

19. Taxes in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia doesn’t impose income tax on individual earnings if they are solely obtained from employment.

Non-residents are taxed based on WHT regulations. Expat families need to pay a new tax for themselves and their dependents, which is about 100 Saudi riyals a month per dependent.

20. Celebrations and festivals

The kingdom hosts several events and cultural festivals that celebrate their heritage and are highly enjoyable. There’s the Janadriyah National Festival (pictured above), Riyadh Spring Festival, and the Buraidah Date Festival, to name a few.

They are a beautiful way for someone to immerse themselves in Islamic culture.

21. Social customs

Saudi people generally greet each other with a long handshake and a kiss on the cheek.

Men and women generally will not greet each other in public if they are not from the same family, and men will avoid eye contact with women to whom they’re not related. Eating with the right hand is customary as the left is seen as unclean.

FAQs

How can I get residency in Saudi Arabia?

You will need to be over the age of 21 to get a residence permit, and you will need to prove that you are financially stable, provide medical reports, have a valid passport, and have a clear criminal record. You will then be eligible for a Premium Residency Card (PRC).

Can foreigners open a local bank account in Saudi Arabia?

Yes, they can. However, it is a fairly lengthy process. You will need to show the bank your residence visa, a copy of your passport, and a letter from your sponsor not object. You will need to do this in person.

Where do most expats live in Saudi Arabia?

Most expats live in Riyadh or Jeddah, as here you will find many Western amenities, most of the country’s employers, and some great accommodation options.

How do you get a tourist visa for Saudi Arabia?

You can apply online or at the immigration kiosk upon arrival in Saudi Arabia. You will need to be over 18 or be accompanied by a legal guardian. The process is quick and easy – so it won’t be long until you can enjoy a holiday on the Arabian peninsula.

Final Thoughts

While it may be a culture shock, if you can accept their laws and customs, you will find Saudi Arabia a beautiful place to live.

Life is all about getting out of your comfort zone, and in Saudi Arabia, you’re bound to live a happy, fulfilled, and luxurious life. Many expats are glad that they made a move, and we highly recommend it too!