Living as an Expat in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia offers a unique experience for expats living in one of the world’s most conservative yet rapidly transforming societies. Whether you are drawn by lucrative opportunities or intrigued by the nation’s mix of tradition and modernity, life in Saudi Arabia is unlike anywhere else. In this guide, we’ll explore all aspects of expat life in the Kingdom, from daily living and culture to laws and work opportunities.

What’s Life Really Like in Saudi Arabia?

Living in Saudi Arabia largely depends on how much effort you invest in understanding the culture and integrating into society. Those who learn Arabic and engage with the local culture often find themselves warmly welcomed. However, sticking strictly within expat compounds and personal bubbles may lead to missing out on extraordinary cultural and personal growth opportunities.

Understanding Saudi Culture and Society

Islamic Culture and Sharia Law

The foundation of Saudi culture lies in Islam and its principles. The Kingdom’s laws are deeply intertwined with Sharia law, reflecting its roots as the birthplace of Islam. Historically, the country maintained strict cultural rules, with gender segregation, mandatory public dress codes, and a lifestyle built around the five daily prayers being the norm. However, since 2017, significant reforms have eased many of these restrictions. Women can now drive, work alongside men, and enjoy social freedom previously unheard of. Cinemas and sports events are also increasingly accessible to mixed-gender audiences, marking a shift toward modernity.

Family and Society

Saudi society is centered around family values, with tight-knit bonds between extended families. Many routine activities revolve around family gatherings, and it’s not uncommon for households to live close to—or with—their extended families. Meanwhile, the Kingdom’s desert climate with scorching summer heat encourages an indoor, air-conditioned lifestyle.

The cultural dynamics also vary across regions. Riyadh is modern and conservative, Jeddah offers a more relaxed vibe blending tradition and innovation, and the eastern cities of Khobar and Dammam appeal to expats for their proximity to less-conservative Bahrain.

Life in Expat Compounds

Expat compounds in Saudi Arabia offer short-term residents a slice of home. These self-contained communities provide greater security and amenities like shops, restaurants, pools, and sports facilities. In addition, social rules within compounds are more relaxed, making it easier for expats to adjust. However, stepping outside these compounds requires navigating public cultural norms with sensitivity.

The No-Liquor and Public Decency Policies

Saudi Arabia enforces strict no-alcohol policies, and there are no signs that this will change despite recent reforms. Additionally, public behavior is regulated under decency laws introduced in 2019, which penalize offenses such as immodest clothing, spitting, littering, and vandalism. Familiarity with and respect for these rules is crucial for a smooth life in the Kingdom.

Cost of Living in Saudi Arabia

Affordability in Major Cities

Living expenses in Saudi Arabia have increased in recent years, particularly in Riyadh, which was ranked the 29th costliest city globally for expats by Mercer. However, many expats benefit from employment packages that include housing, education allowances, and transportation. For those financing their own accommodation, rental costs can consume up to a third of their salaries.

Family Living Costs

For expat families, additional costs include dependent fees (SAR 400 per month per dependent as of 2017) and international school tuition, which can go as high as $30,000 annually. Despite these costs, groceries are proportionally cheaper, and there is no income tax. Combined with low petrol prices, the overall cost of living allows many expats a high standard of living.

Working in Saudi Arabia

Job Market and Opportunities

Saudi Arabia’s job market is shaped by governmental Saudization policies designed to prioritize local employment. This has restricted the number of job opportunities for expats in certain sectors while opening up new avenues in manufacturing, urban planning, and technology. Acquiring a work visa involves employer sponsorship, medical tests, and government approvals, which can take up to two months.

Workplace Culture

Workplaces in Saudi Arabia are highly international. Nevertheless, cultural nuances, such as meeting times aligned with prayer schedules and conservative dress codes, may take some adjustment. Employers are legally required to adhere to specific working hours, with a general limit of 48 hours per week (60 with overtime).

Housing Options for Expats

Buying Property

Recent reforms have allowed expats to purchase property units in certain areas of Saudi Arabia, excluding the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. However, the market remains more favorable for renting, especially for short-term stays.

Renting Homes

Rental options abound, from apartments to villas. Rental contracts often require advance payments through post-dated checks. Housing costs can range from SAR 27,000 annually for a one-bedroom apartment to SAR 200,000 for a three-bedroom villa, depending on your location and preferences.

Social and Relationship Norms

Dating and Romance

Dating in Saudi Arabia requires discretion, as it remains illegal for unmarried, unrelated men and women to publicly interact. Expats working around these restrictions often meet within compounds or use privacy-friendly venues. Social media apps like Snapchat and WhatsApp are also popular tools for forming relationships.

LGBTQ+ and Relationship Laws

The country has strict laws prohibiting homosexuality and gender non-conformity, with harsh penalties. For members of the LGBTQ+ community, maintaining discretion is essential.

Healthcare in Saudi Arabia

The healthcare system in Saudi Arabia is modern, with English-speaking doctors and regular access to quality medical facilities, particularly in major cities. Health insurance is mandatory for all expats, often included in employment packages. Vaccinations for children are free, and most prescription medicines are easily available.

Raising Children in Saudi Arabia

Expat children in Saudi Arabia typically attend international schools, as public schools are reserved for Saudi citizens. These schools cater to diverse curriculums, including British, American, and Indian systems. Extracurricular activities like yoga, chess, and horseback riding are widely available, creating a fulfilling environment for children. However, cultural differences can make integration into Saudi society challenging.

Women in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has undergone transformative reforms regarding women’s rights. Women can now drive, travel without male guardians, and participate in various social and economic roles. Expats should note, however, that gender segregation still influences public and corporate spheres. Many companies provide separate facilities for women, such as bathrooms and prayer rooms.

Adapting to this gendered dynamic may require patience and support from fellow expats. Learning about ongoing legal reforms is beneficial, as rules continue to change rapidly.

Why Pick Saudi Arabia as an Expat Destination?

Saudi Arabia offers a unique and rapidly evolving lifestyle for expats, featuring a combination of high salaries, tax-free incomes, cultural history, and modern infrastructure. Whether seeking professional opportunities or personal growth, expats in Saudi Arabia find themselves at the center of a transformative moment in the region’s development.