Riyadh has evolved from its Bedouin origins into a bustling capital where tradition meets innovation. Whether you’re relocating for a corporate role, launching a startup, or joining family, this checklist will guide you through each stage—from pre‑departure planning to settling in.
2. Pre‑Departure Essentials
- Research & Budgeting
- Compare cost of living: rent, groceries, utilities, schooling
- Factor in one‑time fees: shipment of belongings, visa processing, initial accommodations
- Documentation Prep
- Passport valid for at least six months
- Attested diplomas and professional certificates
- Medical reports: general health check, chest X‑ray (per Saudi requirements)
- Health & Insurance
- Update routine vaccinations
- Secure international travel insurance for first month
3. Securing Your Visa
- Choose the Right Category
- Work Visa: Sponsored by employer; leads to Iqāmah
- Family Visa: For spouses and children; requires proof of relationship and housing
- Investor Visa: For entrepreneurs investing in approved Saudi ventures
- Timeline & Costs
- Processing: 2–6 weeks depending on type
- Fees: Vary by nationality and visa class; typically $500–$1,000
- Post‑Arrival Steps
- Complete medical screening at a licensed Saudi clinic
- Register fingerprints and photo at Jawazat (General Directorate of Passports)
- Receive your national Iqāmah ID card
4. Finding Your Home
- Types of Accommodation
- Compounds: Secure, all‑inclusive gated communities popular with families
- High‑Rise Apartments: Centrally located in Olaya, Tahlia, Al Malaz
- Villas: Spacious properties in suburbs like Al Hamra and Al Shifa
- Key Considerations
- Lease terms: usually 12 months, paid via post‑dated checks
- Utilities and Wi‑Fi: often contracted separately
- Security deposit: typically one month’s rent
5. Getting Around
- Public Transit
- Riyadh Metro: Phases 1 & 2 cover major corridors from the airport to downtown
- Buses: SAPTCO network connects suburbs and intercity routes
- Driving
- International Driving Permit valid for three months; convert to Saudi license thereafter
- Petrol prices are heavily subsidized—expect rates under $0.30 per liter
- Ride‑Hailing & Taxis
- Apps: Careem and Uber operate widely, with women‑driven options available
6. Settling into Daily Life
- Cultural Norms
- Dress code: conservative attire in public; abaya for women and thobe for men is common
- Social etiquette: remove shoes when entering homes, avoid public displays of affection
- Language Tips
- Arabic phrases: “As‑Salām ‘Alaykum” (hello), “Shukran” (thank you)
- English is universal in business districts, but learning basic Arabic fosters goodwill
- Connectivity
- Mobile SIMs: Providers include STC, Mobily, Zain; prepaid plans start around SAR 30
- High‑speed fiber internet available—up to 1 Gbps in many neighborhoods
7. Work & Professional Life
- Business Culture
- Hierarchical decision‑making; titles and formal introductions matter
- Meetings often begin with small talk; expect occasional schedule changes
- Key Industries
- Finance: Central Bank (SAMA) and major banks headquartered here
- Energy & Petrochemicals: Saudi Aramco’s corporate operations
- Tech & Innovation: Growing startup incubators like King Abdullah Financial District’s HUB71
- Networking
- Join chambers of commerce, Women in Business councils, and co‑working spaces like Impact Hub
8. Family, Education & Healthcare
- Schools
- International curricula: American, British, IB; top names include American International School and British International School Riyadh
- Admissions: start paperwork 6–12 months ahead, with waitlists common in popular schools
- Healthcare System
- Private hospitals: King Faisal Specialist Hospital, Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Clinic
- Mandatory employer‑provided health insurance covers most expatriate needs
9. Leisure, Culture & Cuisine
- Entertainment Hotspots
- Riyadh Season: year‑round festivals with concerts, art installations, food markets
- Cultural Districts: Diriyah’s Al‑Turaif UNESCO site and Tuwaiq Sculptures Park
- Dining Scene
- Traditional Saudi: Al Masmak Palace café, Najd Village
- International fare: high‑end hotels host everything from Japanese to Italian fine dining
- Weekend Escapes
- Outdoors: edge‑of‑city sandboarding in Thumamah, hiking Wadi Namar
- Nearby getaways: Taif’s rose gardens, Al Ula’s rock tombs (2.5 hours by car)
10. Tips for Smooth Integration
- Stay Informed
- Follow Sahafah (local news), RCRC (Royal Commission Real Estate updates), and expat forums
- Build Your Community
- Attend meet‑ups via Meetup.com and Facebook groups (e.g., “Riyadh Women’s Network”)
- Respect Local Laws
- Alcohol is prohibited; public behavior is governed by Sharia compliance
Conclusion
With its ambitious development plans, rich cultural tapestry, and world‑class amenities, Riyadh offers an exceptional environment for expatriates. By following this checklist—preparing documentation, securing accommodation, embracing local customs, and exploring the city’s many offerings—you’ll pave the way for a rewarding and successful relocation. Welcome to your new home in the heart of Saudi Arabia!
