10 Things to Know Before Moving to Saudi Arabia

If you're planning to take the leap and move to Saudi Arabia, you're in for an exciting and life-changing experience. Life in Saudi Arabia is quite different compared to North America, Latin America, Europe, and other parts of Asia, so before you move ahead with your long-distance moving plans, here's what you should know about living there.

Climate

Saudi Arabia is in a desert, which means scorching, sunny days throughout the year. Average temperatures in winter are 74 °F (23 °C) in Jeddah, 58 °F (14 °C) in Riyadh, and 63 °F (17 °C) in Al-Dammam. Summers are hot, with daytime temperatures in the shade exceeding 100 °F (38 °C) in almost all of the country. 

The rains are very scarce and are usually concentrated from November to April. However, in the southwest, there is a mountainous area that receives some rain from June to September.

Cost of Living

Rent in Saudi Arabia is modest compared to other Middle Eastern countries like the United Arab Emirates, and utilities are often included in the cost of rent. 

Culture & Dress Code

Whether you plan on moving, or simply visit Saudi Arabia, you should have a solid understanding of how to dress. Saudi Arabia, at its heart, is a traditional Muslim city.

Until very recently, all women (both residents and visitors) were required to wear a loose-fitting long robe called an abaya, while most men still wear a long robe and a headdress called a ghutra. 

While the laws have loosened for tourists, and women don't need to wear an abaya or headscarf, it's best to wear looser clothing with longer sleeves and high necklines.

Language

Arabic reigns supreme as the official language, but English is a secondary language that is taught in all schools. However, knowing some basic Arabic phrases not only earns you brownie points with locals but can also help in daily errands and bargaining in souks (traditional marketplaces).

Alcohol Consumption

The Saudi Arabian government sets out several import restrictions. These include alcohol and pork products. 

Weekends

Saudi Arabia's weekends run on Friday and Saturday, with Friday being the holy day. It's the day when locals and expats alike brunch. Just remember, many businesses open later on Fridays. Some businesses operate on Saturday as well.

Transport

Saudi Arabia has a well-developed transportation infrastructure, including modern highways, airports, and public transportation systems. Depending on your location, you may choose to drive, use public transportation, or rely on ride-hailing services. 

Housing

Picking the right neighborhood in Saudi Arabia is very important. You should consider proximity to work, schools, and amenities like marketplaces, hospitals, etc. You can ask fellow expats or colleagues for more suitable advice. 

Landlords in Saudi Arabia require three months' rent upfront, so make sure to save up. Your employer may offer housing allowance in advance to help with this, so be sure to ask.

Prayer Times

Saudi Arabia is an Islamic country, and shops and businesses must put down their shutters five times a day to allow for prayer. The timing of prayers changes depending on the time of year, but they take place at dawn, noon, afternoon, after sunset and after dusk. The call to prayer is sounded through loudspeakers.

Visas & Documentation

Obtaining a work permit from the Saudi Arabian embassy can be a lengthy process that will take up to a few months.

In addition to a sponsorship from a company that has permission from the Saudi Ministry of Affairs to hire overseas staff, you will need a valid passport, a recent passport-size color photograph with a white background, a completed application, a copy of any degrees and diplomas, a copy of your work contract, three copies of medical reports, and a police report.