Riyadh blends tradition with transformation. While rooted in Islamic values, it’s rapidly evolving thanks to Vision 2030, welcoming global talent and expanding its entertainment, tech, and cultural scenes.
Here’s what makes Riyadh appealing:
- High earning potential (tax-free income)
- Modern infrastructure
- Increasing entertainment options
- Strong expat community
✍️ Pre-Move Checklist
Before boarding your flight:
✅ Job Contract Signed
✅ Work Visa Approved (Iqama process started)
✅ Document Attestation: Especially for marriage, academic, and birth certificates.
✅ Medical Tests: Often required for visa processing.
✅ Travel Insurance (optional, but helpful until your company plan starts)
🏡 Housing Options in Riyadh
You can find a home that fits your budget and lifestyle:
🏘️ Compounds
- Western-style housing with pools, gyms, and cafés.
- Private, secure, and great for families.
- More expensive, but highly convenient.
🏢 Apartments / Villas
- Found across the city, especially in Al Malaz, Al Sahafa, and Al Olaya.
- More affordable and closer to the local community.
💡 Tip: Rents are usually paid quarterly or annually upfront. Be prepared for that cost early on.
🚗 Getting Around
- Driving: Many expats get a local license — it’s essential for daily life.
- Uber/Careem: Widely available and affordable.
- Metro: The Riyadh Metro is partially operational and expanding.
- Taxis: Available, but ride-hailing apps are more popular.
👨👩👧👦 If You’re Bringing Family
- Schools: Enroll early in international schools (American, British, IB, Indian).
- Healthcare: Top-tier hospitals like King Faisal and Specialized Medical Center.
- Recreation: Family-friendly malls, parks, museums, and growing entertainment events.
🧕 Cultural Etiquette
- Riyadh follows conservative Islamic values.
- Public dress should be modest. Men wear long pants; women should avoid tight or revealing clothes.
- During Ramadan, eating in public during daylight is not allowed.
- Friday is the holy day, with most businesses closed in the morning.
🛍️ Everyday Living
- Groceries: Well-stocked with international brands (Carrefour, Lulu, Danube).
- Mobile/Internet: Get a SIM card from STC, Zain, or Mobily. Fast data, widely available.
- Banking: You can open a bank account after getting your Iqama.
📌 Quick Tips for New Arrivals
🔹 Keep printed copies of all your important documents
🔹 Learn a few Arabic phrases — they go a long way
🔹 Respect local customs, especially during religious holidays
🔹 Join local expat networks (e.g., Internations, Riyadh Mums, Facebook groups)
🔹 Be patient — administrative processes can be slow
