What are the visa & residency requirements in Al Khobar?

"Individuals who wish to apply for a visa to Al Khobar must first have been accepted by a sponsor in Saudi Arabia, such as an employer, a family member, or a registered business. Applicants must provide two passport photographs, proof of passport valid for at least six months, and a passport-sized medical certificate. In addition, applicants may be asked to provide bank statements, letter of no objection from the original sponsor in their own country and documents related to the purpose of travel. Once this documentation has been successfully submitted, applicants can apply for a visa. Individuals who wish to apply for residency in Al Khobar must have valid iqama issued by the Ministry of Interior of Saudi Arabia. To apply for residency, applicants should provide valid passport, residency visa, valid iqama issued by the Ministry of Interior in Saudi Arabia, approval from the competent authority, and four passport sized photographs. Individuals should note that residency permits can be applied in the country they are visiting and must be applied for at least 8 weeks prior to their arrival. Once the application is approved, the residency permit should be collected at the Immigration and Passport Office in the place of residence. Residency permits are renewable annually," remarked another expat who made the move to Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia.