Abha

Abha is a picturesque city located in the southwestern part of Saudi Arabia and serves as the capital of the Asir province. Known for its elevated position at over 2,200 meters above sea level, Abha is a city of natural beauty and cultural richness. The city is surrounded by mountains and is known for its mild climate, which is a stark contrast to the desert heat found in much of the country. Abha is adorned with lush green parks, forests, and agricultural terraces that add to its scenic landscape. The city's architecture is a blend of traditional Asiri structures and modern buildings, reflecting its development over the years. Abha is a hub for cultural activities, including the annual Abha Festival which showcases local arts, crafts, and folklore. The city also features several attractions such as the Al-Soudah Park, the Abha Dam Lake, and the cable car rides that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. With its unique charm, Abha attracts tourists looking for a cooler climate and a chance to explore the diverse natural and cultural offerings of Saudi Arabia.

PassportCard Expat Health Insurance
Get Quote

Never worry about paying your medical bills out of pocket again. The innovative PassportCard allows for a stress-free experience for all expat families, remote travelers, and workers. With a 24/7 customer service and an outstanding customer base of over 2 Million clients, it will feel like medical care at home. Get up to 10% off on your policy now.

PassportCard Expat Health Insurance

Never worry about paying your medical bills out of pocket again. The innovative PassportCard allows for a stress-free experience for all expat families, remote travelers, and workers. With a 24/7 customer service and an outstanding customer base of over 2 Million clients, it will feel like medical care at home. Get up to 10% off on your policy now.
Get Quote

Visa & Residency

Obtaining a residency in Saudi Arabia involves several steps and can be a complex process, depending on the type of visa and the applicant's circumstances. The most common residency visa for expats is the Saudi Arabia Work Visa, which requires a job offer from a Saudi employer. The employer acts as a sponsor and will typically handle much of the visa application process on behalf of the employee. To apply for a work visa, the expat must first obtain a visa invitation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Saudi Arabia, facilitated by the employer. The expat then submits a visa application to the nearest Saudi embassy or consulate, along with the required documents, which usually include a passport valid for at least six months, passport-sized photos, a completed application form, a medical report, a police clearance certificate, and educational and professional certificates. Once in Saudi Arabia, expats must convert their work visa into an Iqama, or residency permit, within 90 days. The Iqama is a crucial document that allows expats to live and work in Saudi Arabia, open a bank account, and access other services. It must be renewed annually and is tied to the expat's employment. The employer remains the sponsor throughout the expat's stay in the country, and the expat's ability to change jobs or leave the country is subject to the sponsor's approval. For digital nomads, Saudi Arabia does not offer a specific visa category. However, they may enter the country on a tourist visa, which allows for a stay of up to 90 days, or a business visit visa if they have business-related matters to attend to. It is important to note that working on a tourist visa is not officially permitted, and digital nomads should be cautious and seek legal advice if considering this option. Overall, while the process can be straightforward with the help of a sponsoring employer, it can be quite challenging without sponsorship or for those unfamiliar with the local laws and regulations. The need for a sponsor and the various bureaucratic steps make the process somewhat difficult for those not used to the Saudi system.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Abha is considered moderate in comparison to other major cities in Saudi Arabia, with housing, goods, and services being relatively affordable.

Weather

The weather in Abha is relatively mild with cool temperatures year-round, and the city experiences more rainfall than other parts of Saudi Arabia.

Healthcare in Abha

Abha is home to several healthcare facilities, including the Aseer Central Hospital, which is a major provider of medical services in the region. There is also the Abha Private Hospital, offering a range of healthcare services, and the military hospital which provides medical services to military personnel and their families.

❮

❯