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Saudi Arabia Guides
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Saudi Arabia

The Kingdom offering tax-free income, modern transformation, and strategic Middle East opportunities

Riyadh
Capital
36.5 million
Population
Saudi Riyal (SAR)
Currency
Arabic
Language

Expat Guides for Saudi Arabia

Essential information organized by category to help you settle in Saudi Arabia

🎓

Education

Schools & universities

💰

Finance

Banking & taxes

🏥

Healthcare

Medical system

🏠

Housing

Property & rentals

🌟

Lifestyle

Culture & social life

🏙️

Living

Daily essentials

📦

Moving

Relocation tips

💼

Working

Employment guide

📋

Directory

Contacts & resources

🌟Why Choose Saudi Arabia?

Your Gateway to European Excellence

Discover what makes Saudi Arabia the perfect destination for your next adventure

✓
World's largest oil exporter with Vision 2030 diversification
✓
Complete tax-free income for expatriates
✓
Massive mega-projects: NEOM, Red Sea, Qiddiya
✓
Strategic location in the heart of the Middle East
✓
Rapid modernization and social transformation
✓
Growing expat-friendly compound communities
🌤️

Climate & Weather

Climate Type

Desert

Saudi Arabia has an extremely hot desert climate with very high temperatures in summer, mild winters, and minimal rainfall throughout the year.

☀️Summer Average
35-50°C (95-122°F)
❄️Winter Average
20-30°C (68-86°F)

Seasonal Overview

Winter (December-February)
Pleasant temperatures ideal for outdoor activities, festivals, and exploring the country. Best time to visit.
Spring (March-May)
Warming temperatures with occasional sandstorms. Good for travel before extreme summer heat begins.
Summer (June-September)
Extremely hot and dry with temperatures exceeding 45°C. Air conditioning essential, outdoor activities limited.
Autumn (October-November)
Cooling temperatures make outdoor activities possible again. Good time for exploring before winter arrives.
💰

Cost of Living

60/100
Cost Index
Relative to global average60/100

Saudi Arabia offers moderate living costs with tax-free income significantly improving purchasing power, especially in compound communities.

Housing
Compound living common for expats with Western amenities, varies by city and compound quality
SAR 40,000-120,000/year
Food & Dining
International cuisine available, halal requirements, dining options expanding rapidly
SAR 1,500-3,000/month
Transportation
Car ownership essential, cheap petrol, ride-sharing apps available
SAR 800-1,500/month
Healthcare
Excellent healthcare typically covered by employer insurance packages
Often provided by employer
Utilities
Electricity, water, internet; AC costs high during summer months
SAR 500-1,200/month
💼

Work Culture

Saudi work culture combines Islamic values with modern business practices, emphasizing respect, relationships, and professional development under Vision 2030.

Working Hours
40-48 hours/week
Vacation Days
21-30 days annually

Key Characteristics

•Islamic work ethics with modern business practices
•Sunday-Thursday work week aligned with regional standard
•Respect for Islamic customs and prayer times
•Growing emphasis on Saudi nationalization (Saudization)
•Vision 2030 driving modernization and international standards
📋

Visa Information

Saudi Arabia requires work visa sponsorship through employers with recent reforms improving mobility. Tourist visas now available for many nationalities.

Processing Time
2-6 weeks
Validity
1-2 years renewable based on employment contract

Requirements

✓Valid passport with minimum 6 months validity
✓Employment contract from Saudi-based employer
✓Medical examination and health certificate
✓Educational qualification attestation
✓Clean criminal background check
✓Sponsor (employer) approval and support
🏥

Healthcare System

Universal healthcare with comprehensive insurance coverage

Saudi Arabia provides excellent healthcare through universal system with world-class facilities and international medical professionals.

🛡️
Coverage
Comprehensive coverage typically provided through employer insurance schemes

Key Features

✓Universal healthcare system for all residents
✓World-class medical facilities and hospitals
✓International medical staff and specialists
✓Comprehensive insurance coverage for expats
✓Emergency services available 24/7
💻

Digital Nomad Friendliness

7/10
Nomad Score
Digital Nomad Friendliness7/10
Internet Speed
100-500 Mbps nationwide
Coworking Spaces
50+

Highlights

•Excellent fiber internet infrastructure
•Strategic location for Middle East business
•Growing startup ecosystem under Vision 2030
•High safety and political stability
•Modern business facilities and services
🧾

Taxes

Top Rate
0% (no personal income tax)
VAT
15% standard rate
Complete tax-free environment for individuals. VAT introduced in 2018 at 5%, increased to 15% in 2020
🗣️

Language & Safety

Language
Arabic
English
Good
Safety
Excellent
Holidays
10 national holidays plus Islamic observances
One of the safest countries globally with extremely low crime rates and strong security presence
💳

Payments

Excellent - cards widely accepted
Common apps: STC Pay, Urpay, Apple Pay, mada
Modern digital payment infrastructure with mada (local debit system) dominant
📶

Mobile & Internet

5G Coverage
Excellent nationwide
Carriers
STC, Mobily, Zain Saudi
Outstanding mobile coverage with high-speed 5G networks across major cities
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