Understanding Saudi Visa Types
Saudi Arabia’s visa system underwent major reforms under Vision 2030. Choose the right path:
Tourist eVisa
- Validity: 1 year with 90-day stays
- Eligibility: 49+ countries including US, UK, EU, China
- Application: Online via Visit Saudi’s official portal
- Cost: SAR 535 (includes health insurance)
- Processing: 5-30 minutes approval
Work Visa & Iqama
- Process Flow:
- Employer obtains work visa authorization
- You receive single-entry visa
- Medical test + fingerprinting within 2 weeks
- Iqama (residence permit) issued within 30 days
- Critical Documents:
- Degree certificates attested
- Medical report from approved centers
⚠️ Essential Pro Tip: Avoid Visa Traps
Saudi authorities have intensified crackdowns on illegal employment since 2024. Never accept:
- “Free visa” sponsors (where you pay for sponsorship but work elsewhere)
- Employers who keep your passport (illegal since 2022)
- Verbal contracts – demand written agreement in English AND Arabic
2025 Critical Changes
- Digital Iqama: Now available via Absher and Tawakkalna apps
- Profession Restrictions: 23 professions now Saudization-only
- Dependent Rules: Minimum salary SAR 3,500 to sponsor family
Monthly Living Expenses (2025 Estimates)
| Expense | Riyadh | Jeddah |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Bedroom Apartment | SAR 2,500-4,000 | SAR 3,000-5,000 |
| Utilities (Electricity, Water, AC) | SAR 300-500 | SAR 400-600 |
| Groceries | SAR 800-1,200 | SAR 700-1,100 |
| Transportation (Fuel/Careem) | SAR 500-800 | SAR 600-900 |
| Dining Out (Mid-range) | SAR 800-1,500 | SAR 1,000-1,800 |
Shop at Haraj for furniture , use Tamimi instead of imported grocery stores, and take advantage of compound amenities to reduce entertainment costs.
Expat Housing Options
- Compounds: Gated communities with amenities (pools, gyms, international schools) – ideal for families
- Standalone Villas: Private homes with yards – common in Jeddah
- Apartments: Modern high-rises in city centers – popular with singles and young professionals
Use Aqar (Saudi’s #1 real estate app) , expat Facebook groups, and compound leasing offices directly. Avoid dealing with individual brokers without references.
Housing Contract Essentials
Always demand a tawtheeq (registered contract) and never pay more than one month’s rent as deposit. Verify ownership through the Absher platform before signing.
Dress Code (2025 Updates)
- Women: Abayas required in public (open styles acceptable in malls)
- Men: Long pants required (no shorts outside compounds)
- Work Attire: Business formal common, but tech companies often business casual
Social Etiquette
- Greetings: Handshakes only between same gender unless initiated by Saudi
- Ramadan: No eating/drinking in public during daylight hours
- Photography: Never photograph people without permission
First Week Checklist
- SIM Card: STC (best coverage) or Zain – requires passport and visa
- Bank Account: SNB AlAhli or Al Rajhi – open with Iqama
- Transportation: Careem app for ride-hailing, or convert license at Moroor
- Health Insurance: Mandatory through employer – verify coverage
- Residence Registration: Complete within 14 days of arrival
Must-Have Apps
Government services portal
Health status verification
Ride-hailing and food delivery
Marketplace for used goods
Building Your Social Circle
- Join InterNations groups in Riyadh/Jeddah
- Participate in compound activities and events
- Attend cultural festivals like Riyadh Season
Healthcare Tips
- Public Hospitals: King Faisal Specialist Hospital (Riyadh)
- Private Options: Saudi German Hospital (Jeddah)
- Pharmacies: Nahdi and Al Nahdi chains have English-speaking staff
Can I drive in Saudi with a foreign license?
Yes, for 3 months. After that, you must convert to a Saudi license (written and driving test required).
Is alcohol allowed in Saudi Arabia?
Still illegal in 2025, but non-alcoholic beers and mocktails are widely available.
Can unmarried couples live together?
Technically illegal, but generally accepted in expat compounds. Avoid outside compounds.
How do I ship my pet to Saudi?
Requires microchip, rabies vaccine, USDA attestation, and Saudi embassy stamp. Allow 3-4 months.