Moving to Saudi Arabia

"The best information I would give to someone moving to Saudi Arabia is: do not bring anything with you that you cannot carry in your suitcase. We recently moved back to Saudi and the customs gave us a very bad time with our home shipment. They broke new furniture, charged us duty on our used electronics, put things from someone elses shipment in ours and I imagine put some of ours in someone elses. There are numerous things missing and broken. We figure it is just another way to harras Americans," said one expat in Riyadh.

"Expats moving to Saudi Arabia should familiarize themselves with local laws and customs, as they are different than those in many other countries. Knowing the local language is not required, as most places have someone who can speak English. It is important to remember to dress modestly at all times, and women must wear the traditional abaya. Women should not expect the same level of independence that they may be accustomed to in other countries. Expats should also be aware that the rest of the week is restricted for many activities, including business and recreational. Additionally, the import and sale of alcohol is illegal in Saudi Arabia," said one expat who made the move to Saudi Arabia.

"My advice would be to take it easy - your company should do most of the work although on arrival be ready for an information overload as well as not sleeping very well in the first few weeks and don't worry it takes a few weeks to settle but you will adapt very quickly and get out there ! join every club etc you can ! it is hard to meet people and always remember your manners as it stands to you for the next invite," explained one expat living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

"My husband chose this place because it is close to his office, and the house is large enough to accomodate us," remarked one expat in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

"Finding an appropriate place to live in Saudi Arabia can be a daunting task. Depending on your budget and the area you are looking to live in, there are a variety of ways to find the best place for you. Consider browsing online real estate portals such as Tamleek.sa or Ekar.sa, which feature a variety of housing options for rent or for sale within certain cities and towns. Another option is to contact a local real estate agency, which can help you find suitable properties in and around the city of your choice. You may also consider joining expat and local social media groups in the city that you plan to live in, to help you get advice and tips on finding the right place. Lastly, leveraging the power of social networks in finding a suitable home is also beneficial, as you can be connected with people who have recently moved to the city and can provide helpful insights," said one expat in Saudi Arabia.

"I live in a three bedroom villa. yes for my company it is as they provide their own accomodation," replied a member in Riyadh.

"Expat homes and apartments typically come fully furnished with modern amenities and are comfortable and secure. The apartments generally come with a variety of appliances, such as a refrigerator, oven, washing machine, and air conditioner. The homes and apartments also come with secure parking and often have access to a pool and/or gym. In some cases, the expat homes and apartments may also have balconies with views of the surroundings. Additionally, expat homes and apartments may be situated in popular Compound areas, which offer a range of amenities such as a café, supermarket, dry-cleaning service, and health clinic," commented one expat who made the move to Saudi Arabia.

"3 bedroom / 2.5 bath house, fenced yard with grass, trees, and shrubs. Approximately 2300 sq ft. This is typical for expats with my compnay," remarked one expat in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia.

"Costs are much lower in Saudi Arabia. Avg cost of housing is approximately $400 US per month which includes all utilities," replied a member in Dhahran.

"The average cost of housing in Saudi Arabia varies widely depending on the area and type of accommodation. In general, housing prices in Saudi Arabia tend to be some of the highest in the Middle East, with luxury apartments and villas often costing significantly more than those in other cities. However, housing in some areas may be considered affordable in comparison to other major cities in the region," commented one expat who made the move to Saudi Arabia.

"Buying a home in Saudi Arabia is a great investment, as the real estate market is both reliable and secure. Property values continue to rise with great prospects for the future, and homeowners benefit from generous tax incentives. Renting is also an attractive option as rental prices are comparatively low and Saudi Arabia offers attractive rental rates. Ultimately, both rent and buy options have their own pros and cons, so it's essential to take into account your individual needs, budget and plans when making this decision," commented one expat who made the move to Saudi Arabia.

"When moving to Saudi Arabia, it's important to consider the local climate and customs. It is recommended to pack lightweight and loose clothing that covers arms and legs, including hijabs and long scarves for women. A few sets of comfortable shoes including closed-toe shoes for outdoor activities like hiking and a pair of sandals are also helpful. It's also important to bring basic personal items such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, toiletries, and some medications. Other essential items to pack include a passport, visa, laptop, cell phone, and a camera to capture memories. Additionally, you may want to consider bringing local currency (Saudi Riyal) which can be exchanged in Saudi Arabia. Lastly, make sure to bring an adapter plug to use your electronic items in Saudi Arabia," said one expat in Saudi Arabia.

"Yes, my first day there I urinated in the urinal only to find that was where men sat to wash their feet," remarked one expat who made the move to Dammam.

"In Saudi Arabia, it is important to remember to dress conservatively, obey local laws and customs, and to always defer to the wishes and decisions of the local host. Greeting should be done in a respectful and formal manner, with a shake of the hand for men and a small nod of the head for women. Refrain from physical contact with members of the opposite sex and avoid making any negative remarks about the Saudi Arabian government or Saudi customs. Additionally, eating, drinking, and smoking should only be done in private, and family relationships should be respected at all times," explained one expat living in Saudi Arabia.

"Saudi Arabia’s economy is booming, making it an attractive destination for expats looking for a secure job with a generous salary. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive option compared to other Middle Eastern countries. The weather in Saudi Arabia is sunny and warm year-round, making it a desirable place to live. Saudi Arabia is a wealthy country, with access to quality healthcare and education systems. Additionally, Saudi Arabia is a culturally and traditionally rich destination, which makes it a fascinating place to explore and experience," wrote one expat living in Saudi Arabia.

"Healthcare services in Saudi Arabia are provided by both public and private sectors. The public healthcare system is managed by the Ministry of Health and is funded by the government. It provides free or low-cost healthcare services to citizens and foreign residents. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with modern facilities and well-trained staff. Foreign residents have access to the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Saudi Arabia can use the public healthcare system by registering with the Ministry of Health and obtaining a health card. They may also be able to access private healthcare services, depending on their visa status," offered one expat living in Saudi Arabia.

"If you need medical care, go back to the US or to Europe, if you can afford it. Both medical and dental care are substandard. If you can find doctors trained in the US, that is no assurance that they are qualified. The licensing program and qualifications are sketchy, at best," wrote one expat living in Riyadh.

"In general I am satisfied with it, however sometimes I feel like they may not know what is wrong with me they make things up," commented one expat living in Jeddah.

"Saudi Arabia has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides quality medical services to its citizens. The government provides free medical care to all citizens, including preventive care, primary care, and specialized care. The country also has a number of private hospitals and clinics that offer a wide range of medical services. The country is home to some of the most advanced medical technology and equipment, and many of its hospitals are equipped with the latest medical technology. Additionally, Saudi Arabia has a number of highly trained medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, who are dedicated to providing quality medical care to their patients," commented one expat who moved to Saudi Arabia.