Moving to Saudi Arabia: Expat Guide for 2025
- Sarah Green
- Sep 26
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 16
So, you’re thinking about moving to Saudi Arabia? Exciting times — and possibly a bit nerve-racking too. Relocating here isn’t just swapping drizzle for desert; it’s a crash course in new rules, routines, and where to find a decent jar of pesto. I’ve done it (with kids in tow), and while there were a few bumps along the way, it’s one of the most rewarding moves we’ve ever made. Here’s the insider’s guide I wish I’d had before boarding that one-way flight.
Understanding Saudi Culture and Customs
Before you get swept up in daydreams of golden dunes and souks straight out of Aladdin, let’s talk reality. Saudi Arabia is a country where tradition and modernity sit side by side — and that takes a little adjusting to.
Dress codes matter. Modest clothing is expected in public. Women no longer have to wear the abaya by law, but most still do.
Public behaviour is conservative. Think family-friendly, respectful, and low-key.
Arabic helps. Even a simple salaam (hello) or shukran (thank you) will open doors — literally and figuratively.
Embracing these from the start makes life smoother. And yes, you’ll still be surprised sometimes (like when a prayer call pauses your grocery run).
Visa and Paperwork: What You’ll Need
Your move starts with a visa — and Saudi Arabia doesn’t do casual “turn up and see” entries.
Work visas: Require sponsorship from a Saudi employer. Secure the job first, the paperwork follows.
Family visas: If your partner is already here, you can be sponsored as a dependent.
Student visas: Available if you’re heading to one of the universities.
Top tips:
Check your passport validity (at least 6 months left).
Keep multiple copies of everything — Saudis love a stamped photocopy.
Vaccinations: check what’s required for your visa category.
Housing: Compounds, Villas, and Where Expats Live
One of your first big decisions will be where to live. Options include:
Compounds: Gated communities with pools, gyms, shops, and a ready-made expat network. Great if you’re new and want instant community.
Villas: Spacious, often with gardens. Lovely if you want more independence (but less ready-made social life).
Apartments: Often modern and in the heart of Riyadh or Jeddah.
When house-hunting, ask about:
Internet speed (patchy in some areas).
Maintenance support (you’ll want a responsive landlord).
Proximity to schools and supermarkets.
👉 See my Expat Grocery Guide for Riyadh — it’s where culture shock really hits!
Schools: What Parents Need to Know
Education is one of the trickiest parts of moving as a family. International schools are plentiful, but spots are limited. You’ll find:
British schools (GCSEs and A-Levels).
American schools (AP).
IB schools (popular with mobile expat families). Check out my guide here.
Apply early — seriously. Waiting lists are the norm. And factor in fees: education here is eye-wateringly expensive compared to back home.
FAQ: People Also Ask
Can a US Citizen (or Anyone Else) Move to Saudi Arabia?
The short answer is yes. US citizens can move to Saudi Arabia — and so can Brits, Canadians, Indians, Chinese, South Africans, Pakistanis, Australians, and plenty of others.
The process is more about visa type than nationality.
Work visa: The most common route, and it always requires sponsorship from a Saudi employer.
Family visa: Available if your partner or parent is already here with a legal residence permit.
Student visa: An option if you’re heading to university.
Whatever your passport, the basics are the same: secure a job or sponsor first, gather the paperwork, and expect a bit of bureaucracy along the way.
If you’re American, it’s worth registering with the US Embassy when you arrive (handy in emergencies). Likewise, Brits can register with the UK government’s Locate service, and other nationals should check their own embassy’s expat support.
Is Saudi Arabia a good place for expats?
For many, yes. It’s safe, salaries are high, and there’s a strong expat community. Downsides? It can feel restrictive if you’re used to a more relaxed lifestyle.
What should I pack when moving to Saudi Arabia?
Lightweight clothes, modest outfits, plenty of chargers and adaptors, and comfort items from home (your favourite tea, books, or snacks). The shops have almost everything — but not always the brands you love.
Daily Life: What to Expect
Living in Saudi is a patchwork of contrasts:
Transport: Most expats drive. Uber and Careem (the local Uber) are reliable too. The Riyadh Metro is finally rolling out, but don’t rely on it just yet.
Shopping: You’ll find both mega-malls and traditional souks. My tip? Keep a stash of tote bags — supermarkets don’t always supply them.
Healthcare: Excellent facilities, but private insurance is a must.
Social life: Expat groups, compounds, and school communities are your main hubs. You’ll find friendship faster than you think.
Ramadan: Daily life shifts during this holy month. Expect altered opening hours and a wonderful buzz come sunset.
Packing and Shipping: Don’t Overload the Camel
Think smart, not excessive. Essentials include:
Modest, breathable clothing.
Key documents: passports, visas, birth/marriage certificates, medical records.
Electronics with adaptors (Saudi is 220V).
Comforts from home (yes, Marmite makes the cut).
Small gifts for new colleagues or neighbours — hospitality is huge here.
Label your boxes, keep a master inventory, and check customs rules (alcohol, pork products, and some medicines are prohibited).
Moving to Saudi Arabia is a leap — but one worth taking if you’re prepared. Do your homework, expect a few cultural curveballs, and keep your sense of humour handy. You’ll soon find yourself swapping relocation stress stories over a lemon mint juice with friends who felt just as lost in week one.
👉 Ready for the next step? Check out my Cost of Living in Riyadh 2025 guide — it’s the post everyone wishes they’d read before negotiating their salary.
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