×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Living in Saudi Arabia: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Saudi Arabia | Expat Exchange
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In

Living in Saudi Arabia

AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Feb 05, 2024

Summary: People describe life in Saudi Arabia as a mix of traditional and modern. Expats love the country's rich culture, the warm hospitality of the locals, and the many opportunities for outdoor activities. The cost of living for an expat in Saudi Arabia is generally higher than in other countries in the region, but still relatively affordable. The average cost of living for an expat is estimated to be around $2,000 per month. The population of Saudi Arabia is estimated to be around 34 million people. The largest cities in Saudi Arabia are Riyadh (the capital), Jeddah, Mecca, Medina, and Dammam. The cons of living in Saudi Arabia include the strict laws and regulations, the lack of freedom of speech, the lack of religious freedom, and the lack of gender equality. Additionally, the country is known for its hot and humid climate, which can be difficult to adjust to.

What do I need to know about living in Saudi Arabia?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Saudi Arabia, they said:

"Be open minded, expect little, and keep in mind what you're here for; be it the money or quality family time," commented one expat who made the move to Khamis Mushayt.

"Expats considering retiring in Saudi Arabia should be aware of the religious and cultural practices in the country, such as Islamic laws and customs including restrictions on certain activities, for example drinking alcohol is strictly prohibited. Expats should also familiarize themselves with the local language, Arabic, as it is the official language, although many also speak English. When living in Saudi Arabia, it is important to be aware of the rules regarding gender segregation and dress code, as these are strictly enforced. Expats should also be aware that they will require a valid residency permit, obtained through employment or sponsorship, to stay in the country over a longer period. Lastly, retirees should take into consideration the cost of living and availability of medical care, as these can vary depending on the region," remarked one expat living in Saudi Arabia.

"You will have great fun. Just make sure you get housed on Arabian Homes or The Cove. Arabian Homes is an open compound, a bit out in the sticks (17Km from Royal COmmission) and is a mature compound i.e. a bit faded. The Cove is westerners only, in the Royal Commission and is brand-new. But it's very popular and not easy to get into. May be a waiting list," wrote one member in Yanbu.

View More Answers

How do I meet people in Saudi Arabia?

When we asked people living in Saudi Arabia about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"As most expats which come to KSA (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia) are married, and most have children, there are ample activities to get involved in," remarked one expat living in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia.

"There were many expatriate clubs before the 2004 security incident which caused most westerners to leave. Everything from knitting and drama to golf and scuba diving. They all vanished, but are just startign to come back due to the huge influx of westerners to Yanbu because of the gigantic industrial expansion. There are only two western expatriate compounds - Arabian Homes and The Cove. If you live on either, there are many social activities," wrote one member in Yanbu.

View More Answers

What is life like in Saudi Arabia?

When we asked people living in Saudi Arabia what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Saudi Arabia can be quite an adjustment, as the conservative culture and adherence to Islamic traditions can be unfamiliar for newcomers. Expats find there is a wide range of activities to do, from outdoor pursuits like hiking and bungee jumping in the Red Sea to cultural activities such as the Al-Ula festival. Expats and digital nomads will find that access to the internet and strong communication networks in the country make it an ideal destination to continue working. While there are restrictions on dress and religious activity, Saudis generally welcome expats and are friendly and hospitable. The cost of living in Saudi Arabia is much lower than in other more popular expat destinations, making it an attractive destination for a more affordable living option," wrote one member in Saudi Arabia.

View More Answers

SJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Is there a lot of crime in Saudi Arabia?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Crime exists in Saudi Arabia, though it is generally considered to be low in comparison to other countries, particularly in the areas of violent crime and narcotics. The death penalty is often used as a punishment for a variety of offences, such as drug trafficking and murder. Other offences punishable by law include fraud, bribery, and corruption. The Saudi government also strictly enforces its Shari'a law, including punishments such as flogging, amputation, and imprisonment. At the same time, the government has introduced various measures to reduce the crime rate, such as improving the security measures in public places and providing more resources for policing," wrote a member in Saudi Arabia.

Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Saudi Arabia accepting of differences?

"The city is a very diverse group of people representing over 50 countries. In general, the people are accepting of differences. However, the country is not accepting of differences especially when it comes to religion," remarked one expat living in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia.

View More Answers

What are the schools in Saudi Arabia like?

"Again, I'll share my perspectives later. Since there are only a few western families in Yanbu, the teacher student ratio looks favourable - for my son's grade level anyway," said one expat in Yanbu with children at Yanbu International School.

View More Answers

Is the cost of living in Saudi Arabia high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Saudi Arabia, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Saudi Arabia is generally moderate, though some items can be expensive. In terms of housing, expats tend to pay high rental prices for westernized homes. On the other hand, the cost for basic food items and groceries can be reasonable. In addition, petrol is relatively inexpensive, transportation is available and relatively affordable, and healthcare is accessible and of a high quality. Overall, the cost of living can vary from low to moderate, depending on individual spending habits," said one expat who made the move to Saudi Arabia.

"The cost of living in Saudi Arabia is generally higher than other countries in the Middle East, but is lower than many Western countries. Riyadh and Jeddah, the two largest cities in the country, have a substantially higher cost of living than the rest of the country, with goods and services being considerably higher than in other cities. The rental prices for a 1-bedroom apartment in Riyadh are approximately $1,800 USD per month, while a 2-bedroom apartment averages around $2,500 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant will cost on average around $25 USD," said one expat living in Saudi Arabia.

What type of recreational facilities are in Saudi Arabia?

When we asked people living in Saudi Arabia about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"In Saudi Arabia, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, beaches, and sports centers. Parks are a popular destination for families, offering plenty of green space for picnics, barbecues, and outdoor activities. Beaches are also a popular destination, with many offering a variety of water sports and activities. Sports centers are also popular, offering a variety of activities such as basketball, tennis, and swimming. Additionally, there are many shopping malls, cinemas, and restaurants that offer a variety of entertainment options," commented one expat who moved to Saudi Arabia.

What is the weather like in Saudi Arabia?

"The climate in Saudi Arabia is generally hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from very hot in the summer to mild in the winter. Rainfall is scarce, with most of the country receiving less than 100mm of rain per year. The coastal areas of the country tend to be more humid than the interior. Sand and dust storms are common in the spring and summer months," said one expat.

Are there good restaurants in Saudi Arabia?

"One of the most popular restaurants in Saudi Arabia is Al Baik, which is known for its delicious fried chicken. Located in Jeddah, Al Baik is a fast-food restaurant that serves a variety of dishes, including sandwiches, burgers, and shawarma. The restaurant is known for its generous portions and affordable prices. https://www.albaik.com/ Another popular restaurant in Saudi Arabia is Al Tazaj, which is known for its grilled chicken. Located in Riyadh, Al Tazaj serves a variety of dishes, including sandwiches, burgers, and shawarma. The restaurant is known for its generous portions and affordable prices. https://www.altazaj.com/ Finally, Al-Baik is a popular restaurant in Saudi Arabia that is known for its delicious seafood. Located in Jeddah, Al-Baik serves a variety of dishes, including grilled fish, shrimp, and calamari. The restaurant is known for its generous portions and affordable prices. https://www.albaik.com/," remarked one expat in Saudi Arabia.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Saudi Arabia?

"People living in Saudi Arabia typically buy groceries and do other shopping at supermarkets, convenience stores, and local markets. Many people also shop online for groceries and other items. Additionally, there are many malls and shopping centers throughout the country where people can purchase a variety of items," remarked one expat in Saudi Arabia.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Saudi Arabia?

"In order to travel to Saudi Arabia, foreign nationals must apply for a visa and obtain authorization prior to arrival in the country. The process of applying for a visa includes submitting an application, including passport details and travel plans, to a Saudi Embassy or Consulate and providing documents that confirm the purpose of the visit, such as an invitation letter from a Saudi sponsor or an employment contract with a Saudi company. Foreign nationals who wish to reside in Saudi Arabia must obtain a residency permit, known as an Iqama. To apply for residency, applicants must first have a valid work or family visa and then submit all the necessary documents and fees at their local passport office. Applicants must also have a sponsor, who is usually the employer for work visa holders or a family member for family visa holders, who will be responsible for the visa holder's legal status in the country, as well as any necessary paperwork. After all the documents and fees have been submitted, the applicant will receive an Iqama card, which must be kept valid and renewed periodically," mentioned an expat living in Saudi Arabia.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Saudi Arabia?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Saudi Arabia can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services required. Generally, the cost of healthcare in Saudi Arabia is higher than in many other countries, due to the high cost of medical equipment and services. Health insurance is also expensive, as premiums can be quite high, and there are often additional fees for certain services. However, the government does provide some subsidies for health insurance, which can help to reduce the cost," mentioned an expat living in Saudi Arabia.

"My sponsor always paid for my insurance. I ended paying an extra amount for higher end insurance so I could go the Kingdom Hospital, and found out that the medical staff there are not adequately trained," said an expat in Riyadh.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Get a quote in 2 minutes from our partner, Cigna Global Health.
Get Quote

Cigna Global HealthCigna Global Health

Get a quote in 2 minutes from our partner, Cigna Global Health.
Get Quote

AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers

Copyright 1997-2025 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides