Why Shift to Riyadh?
Riyadh is a rapidly growing metropolis offering:
- Career Opportunities: Especially in sectors like oil & gas, IT, finance, construction, and healthcare.
- High Salaries, Tax-Free Income: Expat packages often include housing, transport, and school allowances.
- Vision 2030 Developments: The city is modernizing fast with major infrastructure, cultural, and entertainment projects.
Before You Move
- Get a Job or Sponsorship: Most expats need a work visa (Iqama) sponsored by an employer.
- Sort Legal Documents: Passport, work visa, marriage and education certificates, etc.
- Understand the Culture: Riyadh is conservative; Islamic traditions and dress codes are observed.
- Healthcare & Insurance: Most employers provide health insurance, but always double-check your coverage.
Housing in Riyadh
- Compounds: Gated communities for expats with amenities like pools and gyms.
- Apartments/Villas: More affordable, but with fewer Western-style amenities.
- Rent: Paid quarterly or yearly in advance. Make sure to budget accordingly.
Cost of Living
- Groceries: Reasonable, especially local produce and staples.
- Transport: Taxis, ride-hailing apps (like Uber/Careem), and a growing metro system.
- Utilities: Affordable, but A/C costs can rise in summer.
Life in Riyadh
- Weather: Hot and dry, especially May–September.
- Dress Code: Modest clothing is expected in public places. Women are no longer required to wear abayas but still dress modestly.
- Social Life: Growing number of cafés, malls, parks, and cultural events (especially since recent liberalization efforts).
- Language: Arabic is official, but English is widely spoken in business and expat communities.
Tips for a Smooth Transition
- Join expat forums or Facebook groups (like “Riyadh Expats”).
- Learn basic Arabic phrases.
- Be patient with bureaucracy—it can be slow.
- Respect local customs, especially during Ramadan.
