Retire in Saudi Arabia

"you can find anything you want, ANYwhere! Start learning the language in use before you get there," explained a retiree in Al-Khobar.

"Life for a retiree in Saudi Arabia and its surroundings can be very rewarding. Expats in Saudi Arabia typically enjoy a warm and welcoming atmosphere and many cultural attractions. The country boasts historic sites such as the ruins of Diriyah and the garden tombs of Takhasusi, which are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Shopping malls, markets and bazaars are widely available and vibrant. There is a thriving expat community with a variety of social and cultural recreational activities to suit a wide range of interests. For nightlife, most expats enjoy the local restaurants and lounges, as many bars and nightclubs are not available yet in the country. Additionally, retirees can find plenty of places to relax and take in some tranquil natural beauty from the kingdom’s Red Sea coastline, desert oases and majestic mountain ranges," explained one retiree living in Saudi Arabia.

"The most challenging aspects of retiring in Saudi Arabia are gaining access to health care, adjusting to the cultural norms, and limited pension plans. Most healthcare providers in the country are affiliated with the government and in order to be eligible for coverage, individuals must meet certain criteria, such as a certain income level or full-time employment. Additionally, the cultural and social norms in Saudi Arabia can be quite different to those of other countries, which can prove to be a challenging and intimidating adjustment for some. Finally, the availability of pension plans in Saudi Arabia is more limited than in many other countries, meaning some retirees may struggle to secure sufficient financial resources to maintain a comfortable retirement," explained one retiree living in Saudi Arabia.

"The most rewarding aspect of retiring in Saudi Arabia is the feeling of embraced warmth. The Kingdom is known for its generous hospitality and expats who have made the country their home can feel surrounded by family. The warm weather and diverse landscapes are a delight to experience and explore. Retirement in Saudi Arabia offers a safe and comfortable lifestyle, with excellent healthcare and a variety of cultural and recreational activities. In addition, a large and vibrant expat community encourages retirees to stay happily connected with their fellow expats. Finally, retirees can benefit from the uniquely competitive tax system and low cost of living, with offerings of affordable housing and entertainment," remarked one retiree in Saudi Arabia.

"In Arab countries, you do NOT! In Europe, you DO. In America, you DO. In South America, you DON'T. in China, they let you ROT. In Japan, they send you to the USA :-)," said a retiree who moved to Al-Khobar, Saudi Arabia.

"In Saudi Arabia, healthcare services are generally of very high quality. The country has a well-developed healthcare system which is government financed and supported. Public healthcare is provided free of charge at government hospitals and clinics. Private healthcare is also available and is subsidized in part by the government. There is a wide range of specialized medical services available within the country and a good selection of healthcare professionals. In addition, the country has signed bilateral agreements with many western countries in order to provide access to advanced medical technology," said one retiree in Saudi Arabia.

"Many expats join social and professional clubs in Saudi Arabia such as the International Women's Group and the Riyadh International Sports Club. These clubs offer a space for expats to connect, network, and enjoy recreational activities. Expats can also meet people through activities like volunteer work, language classes, or religious groups. Additionally, they may meet people through work or by attending networking events or conferences in the area," said one retiree in living in Saudi Arabia.

"The city is a very diverse group of people representing over 50 countries. In general, life runs at a slower pace here and life generally revolves around the family and sports," said a retiree who moved to Dhahran, Saudi Arabia.

"Yanbu is an industrial 'new city', but it is very clean and tidy, unlike most Saudi towns. The western housing area of the Royal Commission is very like parts of America. Most westerners in Yanbu are there to work - but it's a great place to socialise and great for things like scuba diving, sailing, dune-buggies etc," said one retiree in Yanbu.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Saudi Arabia can be quite an adjustment, as the conservative culture and adherence to Islamic traditions can be unfamiliar for newcomers. Expats find there is a wide range of activities to do, from outdoor pursuits like hiking and bungee jumping in the Red Sea to cultural activities such as the Al-Ula festival. Expats and digital nomads will find that access to the internet and strong communication networks in the country make it an ideal destination to continue working. While there are restrictions on dress and religious activity, Saudis generally welcome expats and are friendly and hospitable. The cost of living in Saudi Arabia is much lower than in other more popular expat destinations, making it an attractive destination for a more affordable living option," commented one retiree living in Saudi Arabia.

"People lives are surrounded by their families and GrandParents which means much socialising," explained one retiree living in Jeddah.

"Expats considering retiring in Saudi Arabia should be aware of the religious and cultural practices in the country, such as Islamic laws and customs including restrictions on certain activities, for example drinking alcohol is strictly prohibited. Expats should also familiarize themselves with the local language, Arabic, as it is the official language, although many also speak English. When living in Saudi Arabia, it is important to be aware of the rules regarding gender segregation and dress code, as these are strictly enforced. Expats should also be aware that they will require a valid residency permit, obtained through employment or sponsorship, to stay in the country over a longer period. Lastly, retirees should take into consideration the cost of living and availability of medical care, as these can vary depending on the region," said a person in Saudi Arabia.

"Be open minded, expect little, and keep in mind what you're here for; be it the money or quality family time," remarked one retiree in Khamis Mushayt.

"You will have great fun. Just make sure you get housed on Arabian Homes or The Cove. Arabian Homes is an open compound, a bit out in the sticks (17Km from Royal COmmission) and is a mature compound i.e. a bit faded. The Cove is westerners only, in the Royal Commission and is brand-new. But it's very popular and not easy to get into. May be a waiting list," said a retiree who moved to Yanbu, Saudi Arabia.

"In Saudi Arabia, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, beaches, and sports centers. Parks are a popular destination for families, offering plenty of green space for picnics, barbecues, and outdoor activities. Beaches are also a popular destination, with many offering a variety of water sports and activities. Sports centers are also popular, offering a variety of activities such as basketball, tennis, and swimming. Additionally, there are many shopping malls, cinemas, and restaurants that offer a variety of entertainment options," explained one member in Saudi Arabia.

"People living in Saudi Arabia typically buy groceries and do other shopping at supermarkets, convenience stores, and local markets. Many people also shop online for groceries and other items. Additionally, there are many malls and shopping centers throughout the country where people can purchase a variety of items," said one retiree in Saudi Arabia.