Living in Saudi Arabia as an Expat(2026 Complete Guide)
Saudi Arabia is home to about 15.7 million non-Saudi residents, around 44% of the population, according to the 2024 GASTAT population bulletin. Whether you are arriving for the first time or preparing for your next posting, this guide covers everything you need to settle in: visa and iqama, housing, banking, healthcare, schools, driving, jobs, and daily life.
What is expat life like in Saudi Arabia?
Expat life in Saudi Arabia offers tax-free salaries, high-quality private healthcare, modern infrastructure, and a rapidly evolving social scene. The Kingdom's Vision 2030 reform programme has transformed daily life: cinemas, concerts, mixed-gender public spaces, and international events are now part of everyday experience. The main administrative requirements are securing a valid work visa, obtaining an iqama (residence permit), and opening a local bank account — all covered in detail below.
Your first 90 days in Saudi Arabia
- Enter on the correct visa.
- Employer processes iqama within 90 days.
- Activate SIM and Absher.
- Open bank account.
- Confirm CCHI insurance, housing, school, and driving licence.
By the Saudi Expats Editorial Team. Last updated 31 May 2026.
Official sources: GASTAT, Ministry of Interior, Absher, Saudi Visa / MOFA, CHI/CCHI.
Always confirm your case in the official portal before acting.
Saudi Arabia at a Glance
Capital
Riyadh
Currency
Saudi Riyal (SAR)
Language
Arabic (English widely used in business)
Tax on income
None for employees
Work week
Sunday – Thursday
Driving side
Right
Time zone
AST (UTC+3), no DST
VAT rate
15%
Everything You Need to Know
Browse by topic — each section links to detailed guides and tools.
Visa & Iqama
MOFA visa verification, work visa types, iqama application and renewal, exit/re-entry permits.
Housing & Compounds
Finding accommodation, expat compounds, renting apartments, what to expect in major cities.
Banking & Money
Opening a bank account, Al Rajhi vs SNB, money transfers, STC Pay, and remittance.
Cost of Living
Grocery prices, rent ranges, utilities, transport, and dining costs by city.
Jobs & Salary
Finding work, salary expectations, Nitaqat quotas, work permits, and top-hiring sectors.
Healthcare
CCHI health insurance classes, choosing a provider, major hospitals, and emergency care.
Driving & Transport
Converting your licence, buying a car, traffic regulations, and public transport options.
Schools & Education
International schools, curricula available (British, American, IB), school fees, and enrolment.
Culture & Social Life
Social norms, Ramadan etiquette, Vision 2030 lifestyle changes, entertainment, and community.
Community & Support
Connect with fellow expats, find mentors, discover local groups, and get personalised advice.
Expat Settling-In Checklist
The essential steps every expat should complete within the first 90 days of arriving in Saudi Arabia.
Register your mobile SIM (requires iqama)
Expat Life by City
Each city has its own character and practical considerations for expats.
Riyadh
The capital. Business hub, diplomatic quarter, and the largest expat community in the Kingdom.
Jeddah
Coastal lifestyle, more relaxed atmosphere, Red Sea activities, and a diverse international community.
Dammam / Khobar
Eastern Province oil industry hub. Close to Bahrain. Strong industrial and Aramco expat community.
Jubail
Industrial city. Major petrochemical employers. SABIC, ARAMCO, and a large expat workforce.
NEOM / Tabuk
Fastest-growing region. Unique mega-project opportunities. Cooler winters than the rest of KSA.
Medina
Holy city with special cultural context. Non-Muslim expats should understand entry regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions — Expat Life in Saudi Arabia
What is the iqama and do all expats need one?
The iqama (إقامة) is the Saudi Arabian residence permit required for all expatriates living and working in the Kingdom. It is sponsored by your employer or, for family visa holders, by the primary visa sponsor. You should be able to present proof of your valid resident identity when requested by authorities. Iqama must be renewed annually or biannually depending on your visa type.
How much money do I need to live comfortably in Saudi Arabia as an expat?
A single expat can live comfortably in Riyadh or Jeddah on SAR 8,000–15,000 per month (approximately USD 2,100–4,000), covering rent, utilities, food, and transport. A family of four typically needs SAR 18,000–30,000 per month. Housing is the largest expense; many employers provide a housing allowance or company accommodation.
Can expats drive in Saudi Arabia on a foreign licence?
Expats from GCC countries and many Western nations can exchange their foreign driving licence for a Saudi licence without a driving test. Citizens of other nationalities must pass a driving test. An international driving permit is not recognised for long-term residents — you must obtain a Saudi licence once you hold an iqama.
Is healthcare good for expats in Saudi Arabia?
Private healthcare in Saudi Arabia, especially in major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, is generally excellent. Employers are legally required to provide CCHI-compliant health insurance for all employees and their dependants. Major international-standard hospitals include Saudi German Hospital, King Faisal Specialist Hospital, and Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare.
What is expat life like socially in Saudi Arabia in 2026?
Social life has expanded under Vision 2030, with cinemas, concerts, sporting events, restaurants, cafes, entertainment venues, and international festivals now common in major cities. Rules still vary by venue, city, and event, so check official event and venue terms before attending. Many cities have active expat communities with sports leagues, hobby groups, and cultural events, and Saudi Expats connects you with thousands of fellow expats across the Kingdom.
Which bank should expats use in Saudi Arabia?
Al Rajhi Bank and Saudi National Bank (SNB) are the most popular choices for expats due to their large ATM networks, English-language mobile apps, and straightforward account opening processes. HSBC and Citibank also cater to expats with international banking requirements. See our full banking guide for a step-by-step account opening walkthrough.