Moving to Saudi Arabia

Situated in the heart of the Middle East on the Arabian Peninsula, Saudi Arabia's vast and seemingly endless desert plains, coupled with a conservative society strictly governed by Sharia law, can make the country seem intimidating for many expats.

Though there are certain perks to moving to Saudi Arabia, expats seldom do so for the lifestyle, the weather, the food or any of the enticements other expat destinations may offer. Rather, Westerners tend to move to the Kingdom for financial reasons and remain sequestered in Western-style compounds, far removed from real Saudi life while earning their tax-free salaries.

Living in Saudi Arabia as an expat

Most expats in Saudi Arabia live in Jeddah and Riyadh, both of which have the full range of Western amenities, a good selection of accommodation, and most of the Kingdom’s employers. Some expats may also find themselves drawn to Saudi's Eastern Province, pulled by lucrative job offers in the hydrocarbon sector.

Expat life in Saudi Arabia is surprisingly social, as fellow immigrants develop strong bonds. Weekends are often centred on compound get-togethers, trips into the desert and diving excursions. The camaraderie and parties make up for a lack of other liberties and luxuries, but the artificial lifestyle can be difficult to sustain over long periods.

Saudi Arabia is governed by Sharia law, and Islam is closely interwoven with daily life. Although foreigners are allowed to practise their own religion in private, proselytising is strictly forbidden. For the most harmonious and peaceful experience possible, expats are advised to respect Islamic laws and customs, bearing in mind that they are guests in the Kingdom.

Expat women in Saudi Arabia

Expat women, in particular, may struggle to adjust to life in Saudi Arabia, especially if moving there as a trailing spouse. Many of the freedoms they enjoyed back home are far more limited in Saudi Arabia. The best way to blend in when out in public is to wear an abaya (a long, flowing black robe) over clothes. Women aren't obligated to wear an abaya by law, but public decency laws do specify that knees and shoulders should be covered in public.

If living in Saudi as a dependant on their husband’s visa, women aren't automatically granted the right to work and will need to obtain their own sponsor and work visa to do so.

Cost of living in Saudi Arabia

The cost of living in Saudi Arabia for expats can vary depending on their lifestyle and the city they reside in. Generally, housing and food are relatively affordable, while luxury items and imported goods can be expensive. The country offers a range of accommodations, from simple apartments to lavish villas, to suit different budgets.

Expats can enjoy a variety of local cuisine at affordable prices, especially if they opt for street food or local restaurants. However, imported food items and dining at high-end restaurants can be quite costly. The cost of utilities such as electricity, water, and gas is relatively low, while transport costs can vary depending on the mode of travel and distance. The low price of petrol and of buying a car in the Kingdom makes driving and taxis surprisingly affordable, which is good considering that Saudi's public transport still has a way to improve.

Expat families and children in Saudi Arabia

Foreign children don't often attend Saudi public schools due to language and cultural barriers, but there are several international schools that cater to the international community. The standard of education at these schools is generally high. Due to the high demand, space is limited and parents should consider applying as early as possible to get a place for their child in their school of choice. Fees are typically high. Expats should factor these costs into their contract negotiations when considering a move to Saudi Arabia.

Healthcare in Saudi Arabia is of a high standard, and expats will benefit from excellent medical facilities in both the private and public sectors. For the most part, there's no need to worry about delays or waiting lists, but having adequate health insurance is a must to cover the costs involved.

Climate in Saudi Arabia

The climate in Saudi Arabia is desert climate with extremely hot summers and mild winters. The country receives very little rainfall throughout the year. The climate in Riyadh is characterised by hot summers and cool winters. The city is known for its dry climate and low humidity, which can make the heat more bearable. Jeddah, located on the Red Sea coast, has a more tropical climate with high humidity and mild winters. The Eastern Province, meanwhile, has a subtropical desert climate. This region receives more rainfall than other parts of the country and also greater variance in temperature between the seasons.

Working and living in Saudi Arabia can be a unique and exciting opportunity for expats. It is an adventure that can broaden horizons, deepen cultural awareness and provide the chance for personal growth. Embracing the move to Saudi Arabia as a chance to gain a new perspective can also make the transition smoother and more rewarding. While the country's conservative culture may take some getting used to, it can also be a valuable and enlightening experience, and with the country's booming economy and growing job market, there are a wealth of opportunities for those looking to make a move.

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Fast facts

Population: 35 million

Capital city: Riyadh (also largest city)

Other major cities: Jeddah, Dammam, Mecca

Neighbouring countries: Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Oman and Yemen

Political system: Unitary Islamic absolute monarchy

Geography: Saudi Arabia is made up mostly of desert. The population is distributed in the eastern and western coastal towns as well as the interior oases, but much of the country remains empty desert.

Main languages: Arabic is the official language, although English is widely spoken and understood in business.

Major religions: Saudi Arabia is a strict Islamic country governed by Sharia law. Although other religions can be practised in private, proselytising and public practice of those religions is strictly forbidden.

Money: The official currency is the Saudi riyal (SAR), divided into 100 halalas. The country has a well-established banking system and expats are able to open a local bank account in Saudi Arabia.

Tipping: 10 percent

Time: GMT+3

Electricity: 110V, 50Hz in main cities, but expats in remote areas may encounter 220V, 60Hz.

International dialling code: +966

Internet domain: .sa

Emergency numbers: 999 (police); 997 (ambulance); 998 (fire)

Transport and driving: Cars drive on the right-hand side of the road in Saudi Arabia. Most expats get around in their own vehicles or with a personal driver.