Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

What is the secret of Saudi Arabia’s success? Why is this state one of the most powerful economic systems in the world? The answer is simple. Of course, it’s about oil.

However, it cannot be said that the people of the country were just lucky, and they did not make any effort to reap the benefits of such natural wealth. Even the largest reserves of oil and gas cannot be developed without the appropriate level of the extractive industry.

Currently, Saudi Arabia has all the infrastructure necessary for life. Even such a specialized place as a veterinary clinic in it is particularly reliable. After all, every person wants his pets to be in the best condition. Qualified veterinarians will provide the best possible care for your pet.

However, one should not think that milk rivers flow between the jelly banks in Saudi Arabia. The focus of the entire economy on the extraction of natural resources does not have a very good effect on the rest of its industries. As a result, a huge amount of goods have to be imported from abroad. Finally, many residents fear that it will be worse, as the latest data show that the state of the economy raises certain concerns.

Later in this article, we will try to understand how you can move to this country, become a resident and after getting citizenship.

What you should know about the country?

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is located on the Arabian Peninsula and is washed by the waters of the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea. This country has the largest oil reserves. It is difficult to obtain Saudi Arabian citizenship, but under certain conditions it is possible.

Saudi Arabia is far from the most desirable country for expats. Nevertheless, of the 26 million population of the country, 10 million are foreigners for whom emigration was an opportunity to change their lives for the better. But, before deciding to move, you need to be prepared for a number of negative moments of life in Arabia.

The country has a rather hot climate. The average July temperature is plus 30 degrees. In summer, the thermometer often rises to fifty degrees.

It is a religious country where the observance of external norms of behavior is controlled by special police. In addition, public display of any religion other than Islam is severely persecuted.

In Saudi Arabia, there are serious gender restrictions; women are significantly limited in their rights.

In terms of its political structure, this is an absolute monarchy, in which there is no place for parties and public organizations.

It is difficult for a European to adapt to the mores and customs of Saudi Arabia; it is easier for people from Muslim countries to do this.

Moving to Saudi Arabia for permanent residence, as a rule, is associated with purely pragmatic considerations, since here:

• high salaries;
• low crime rate;
• cheap gasoline;
• low taxes;
• good pension provision;
• high level of medical care;
• there is an opportunity to get a good medical education.

Saudi Arabia citizenship is possible for people who invest in the country and conduct their business here, as well as for specialists in the most demanded sectors of the economy (oil refining, information technology, telecommunications, banking).

It also welcomes promising students who wish to study at local universities and those who are married to a citizen of Saudi Arabia.

What are the main methods for moving to Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia authorities has a few options for expats to move to their country, which is definitely familiar to you, let’s see each of them and try to understand.

Invest immigration

You can emigrate to a country if a foreigner invests certain funds in its economy. And investing in a local business is extremely profitable because:

• there is a developed economy;
• loyal legislation;
• positive attitude towards foreign investors;
• favorable terms of taxation;
• stable political system;
• convenient commercial location of the country;
• high quality of life.

All this prompts the investor to leave his country and settle in Saudi Arabia. And for this you need to submit the following documents:

• a copy of the investment certificate;
• birth certificate;
• questionnaire;
• certificate of religion;
• health certificate with all vaccinations and tests;
• passport and its copy (valid for two years);
• photo;
• certificate of residence.

After preparing all the documents and paying a fee of $ 22, a visa is issued for three months, and then a residence permit. Citizenship cannot be obtained by a resident of Canada, even if he is an investor.

Work immigration

In Saudi Arabia, professions related to oil production, oil refining, as well as high technologies are always in demand. Employers are not very willing to hire foreigners, because the government of the Kingdom imposes quite serious duties on employers:

• issue an entry permit for an employee;
• pay for his visa;
• pay a “tax on the have-nots”, this compensates for the loss of a job by a local resident who could have occupied this position instead of a foreigner;
• the employer, at its own expense, provides housing to the invited employee or compensates for losses incurred in connection with the rental of housing;
• acts as a surety for the invited employee;
• certifies the agreement in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chamber of Commerce.

All this is burdensome for the employer and forces him to turn to such a form of hiring when it is impossible to find the right specialist in his country. And often it is narrow specialists in a certain area of ​​the economy that are absent among the local residents of Saudi Arabia itself, so this method of obtaining citizenship for foreigners is the most likely.

Education immigration

The Saudis themselves prefer that their children receive higher education abroad, but at the same time, they have good universities in the country that provide an excellent education due to the fact that they often invite the best specialists from around the world.

Until recently, only a few universities and other higher education institutions in Saudi Arabia accepted foreign students. Now the situation has changed, and 25 universities of the country are inviting foreigners to them, offering rather preferential and favorable conditions.

The cost of studying for a bachelor’s degree at the capital’s University of King Saud is $ 1000 a year. The most expensive universities in Saudi Arabia are Alfaisal University ($ 20000 a month) and Prince Sultan University ($ 15000 a month).

In addition to low pay, there are other attractive aspects of studying in Saudi Arabia:

• a scholarship is paid, and an increased one for excellent students;
• free accommodation, meals are provided, travel around the country is reduced by 50%;
• upon admission, the issuance of lifting money for the arrangement;
• free medical care in university clinics.

In many universities, teaching is conducted in English. So even ignorance of Arabic will not make it difficult to study in Saudi universities. In order to study at universities in Saudi Arabia, you need to obtain a student visa, and for this you need to provide the following:

• a document confirming that a study place is assigned to you at this university;
• medical certificate;
• travel permit from the government of the country;
• police clearance certificate;
• birth certificate original and copy;
• photo;
• passport (valid for at least two years).

Having provided all these documents, the student receives the required study visa.

After studying in Saudi Arabia for 4 to 7 years (bachelor’s and master’s degrees), if you wish, you can not only get an education but also find an employer who will be interested in the services of a young specialist. In the future, this will help to become a citizen of Saudi Arabia.

Marriage immigration

Another way to obtain Saudi Arabian citizenship is to marry a citizen of the Kingdom. This method is mostly acceptable for the female half. Women can marry a local.

Another option, when a Saudi woman marries a foreigner and gives him the opportunity to obtain citizenship, is unlikely, although not excluded. If from such a marriage there are children born in the territory of Saudi Arabia, then they have every right to obtain citizenship of this country. In this case, it is necessary that the following conditions are met:

• knowledge of the Arabic language;
• having a residence permit at the time of reaching the age of majority;
• excellent behavior and no criminal record;
• an application for citizenship, written within a year after the onset of majority.

When all these rules are observed for a person born of a Saudi mother in the Kingdom, it is quite possible to obtain citizenship. It is now the most likely way to obtain citizenship through marriage for those who entered into it before 2010.

It was in this year that it was decided that any Saudi or Saudi woman who married a foreigner would pay a fine of $ 27,000. But still, a person who was born in a mixed marriage has a high probability of obtaining citizenship.

Saudi Arabia, like many countries in the Arab East, has a fairly large number of foreigners who work in the country, study or are married to local residents. But it is not so easy to obtain citizenship in this country, although 39% of its population are foreigners.

The culture of Saudi Arabia is infused with Islam. There are many taboos in the Kingdom that foreigners, especially Europeans, will find difficult to adapt to. Watch a special report on life in this country.

How to get Saudi Arabian citizenship: registration procedure

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the largest state on the Arabian Peninsula, with colossal oil reserves. The Arab monarchy is distinguished by strict laws and special religiosity. The country is not as hospitable to foreign citizens as, for example, the UAE, although more than 30% of the population here are foreigners. Therefore, Russian and Ukrainian emigrants rarely consider KSA as an option for moving.

Since 2019, the government of the Kingdom has announced some innovations in immigration law, opening up additional opportunities for obtaining Saudi Arabian citizenship. How to legalize in this practically closed country? Is it possible to get a Saudi Arabian passport for immigrants from the countries of the former CIS?

Conditions for obtaining citizenship

Many people think that it is impossible to acquire Saudi Arabian citizenship, but in reality, the monarchy has passed the Saudi Arabian Citizenship System law, which establishes a certain procedure for legalization for foreigners. On its basis, it is possible to become a citizen of the KSA through birth and descent, marriage to a Saudi, which we have already discussed, or by naturalization.

Birth or origin

If the child is born to a Saudi mother and a non-Saudi father, he will receive Saudi Arabian citizenship upon reaching the age of majority (18 years old). At the same time, the applicant must be fluent in Arabic, have a permanent residence in the country, and the maternal grandfather must be a Saudi. Children born to unknown persons are automatically granted Saudi Arabian citizenship, but until the identity of their parents is established. A child with a Saudi father also receives Kingdom citizenship. In all cases, the King’s approval is required to obtain a passport.

Naturalization

Saudi Arabian citizenship is available to naturalized foreigners. To acquire citizenship, you must live continuously within the Kingdom for 10 years, 5 of which – in the status of permanent residence, without traveling abroad for more than six months. In addition, the country has a rather complex scoring system for evaluating candidates. The calculation takes into account: education, religious affiliation, level of Arabic language proficiency, born children, law-abidingness, and family ties. The maximum number is 33 points, the applicant must score at least 23. Due to opposing religious views, immigrants often lack the points to apply for a Saudi Arabian passport.

More about premium residency program

In 2019, the Saudi authorities announced the issuance of permanent residence to foreigners as part of the Premium residency program. An immigrant over the age of 21, healthy and without a criminal record, who has confirmed financial solvency, can apply for an “unlimited” residence permit.

For permanent residence, you will have to pay $ 213 thousand, and for a permit renewable for 1 year – $ 26.7 thousand. This scheme allows premium visa holders to:

• buy real estate;
• create new businesses;
• freely change jobs;
• leave the KSA without additional permission;
• sponsor a family member visa.

Previously, visa regimes were very strict, for any action an immigrant had to obtain permission from local sponsors (for example, employers). For the KSA, as a state with very strict immigration law, this step was a great achievement. The Kingdom is trying to attract foreign investors in this way, in the conditions of “sluggish” economic growth.

The new scheme makes it easier to obtain business, property, and vehicle licenses. Under the same program, foreigners holding managerial positions with a salary of $ 8,100, with higher education and 5 years of work experience receive the right to a “life-long” residence.

Attracting talent

At the end of 2019, the authorities of the monarchy announced their readiness to provide passports to talented foreigners. The kingdom is interested in competent specialists in the field of medicine, high technology, renewable energy, artificial intelligence. Honored workers of art, culture, and sports will also be affected by the law. The basis for the applicant will be awards, professional certificates, and facts of world recognition.

The detailed procedure for obtaining citizenship

Having moved to the KSA on one of the immigration visas, a foreigner draws up a residence permit valid for 1-2 years with subsequent prolongation. At the stage of obtaining permanent residence, immigrants pass tests on knowledge of legislation, religious traditions, and Muslim life (in English or Arabic).

After 10 years of permanent residence (5 with a residence permit + 5 with a permanent residence), you can apply for a Saudi Arabian passport through naturalization. All applicants pass a point assessment, additional benefits:

• 10 years of permanent residence in the country – 10 points;
• bachelor’s education – 5, master’s – 8;
• the presence of Saudi children – 2 points;
• high medical or engineering qualifications – 13.

In addition, the applicant collects a voluminous package of documents, confirms his religious affiliation and knowledge of the Arabic language. The petition is addressed to the Prime Minister, who is advised by the Foreign Ministry.

Applications are considered on an individual basis, but the application may be rejected without explaining the reasons for the rejection. Dual citizenship in Saudi Arabia is prohibited.

Required documents

The package of documents for Saudi Arabian citizenship will vary, depending on the immigration category of the applicant. In the general list of required securities:

• passport and photo;
• police clearance certificates;
• family composition documents;
• papers on income and place of residence;
• test results in Arabic;
• recommendations from local religious institutions;
• documents confirming the legality of stay in the state;
• Residence permit or permanent residence, with the calculation of the required 10-year period of residence;
• medical certificates with notes about the absence of certain diseases.

Additional documents and reputational characteristics may be required. All papers are translated into Arabic. The term for consideration of applications is 6-12 months.

What does Saudi Arabia citizenship give?

The status of a citizen of Saudi Arabia makes it possible to live in a state with an excellent level of medical care and low crime. The country has high salaries and low taxes, cheap gasoline, and excellent retirement benefits.

The capital of the Kingdom of Riyadh is one of the safest cities in the world to live in. With a Saudi Arabian passport, you can freely travel to 79 countries of the world, and the country’s location in the very heart of the Middle East makes it easier for travelers and contributes to the democratic cost of international travel.

However, it can be difficult for immigrants to get used to the hot, harsh continental climate, rigid norms of public behavior, gender restrictions, and a conservative dress code. Not everyone is able to live with the mores and customs of the Saudis, formed under the influence of Islam.

Foreigners deciding to move to KSA should carefully study local regulations and make sure they are ready to follow strict rules. Saudi Arabian citizenship is very rarely given to foreigners from states with a different religion, so those wishing to move to a country in the Middle East should prepare for the difficulties of immigration and serious changes within themselves.

To conclude this article, let’s see a few short points that prove the real advantages of being a Saudi Arabian citizen:

• Indefinite stay on the land of Mecca and Medina.
• Opportunity to obtain a piece of land in Mecca and Medina.
• Enough good job offers.
• Ease of starting a business.
• Ease of accessing to many countries around the world.
• Pension benefits.
• The absence of dependent commission or any other commission.
• Free education and health-related services.

Being a Saudi Arabian citizen will give you many benefits, but first of all, you have to be familiar with their culture, country’s traditions, and their religion restrictions on many things.

We hope this detailed guide on how to become a Saudi Arabian citizen or resident helped you somehow on orientating on your further steps. The good news is that Saudi Arabia allows foreigners to become their citizen, unlike the UAE, where you have no chances. If you are a good specialist, or you have money and want to invest, or you are a talented student, the country will welcome you with pleasure.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

Foreigners living in Jeddah benefit from moving to Saudi Arabia’s quietest major city. However, it is not always easy to navigate the daily life of the Saudi Kingdom. This moving to Jeddah guide will help you with all the information you may need as an expat.

Life in Jeddah

• Culture shock in Jeddah can be tricky to overcome, but if you research your options carefully, you will see that there are many opportunities for foreigners to escape the strict local traditions.
• Saudi Arabia’s public health system is of a high standard – just make sure you research health insurance and vaccinations to prepare for your arrival.
• Jeddah still does not have a developed public transport system, and the easiest way to get around is by car, be it a taxi or with a personal driver.

Sometimes future expats are a little skeptical about life in Jeddah. Both the extreme climate and the rules governing social behavior make life there somewhat repulsive to outsiders. However, while Jeddah can indeed be a little quiet, it is far from boring.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is located on the Arabian Peninsula and is washed by the waters of the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea. This country has the largest oil reserves. It is difficult to obtain Saudi Arabian citizenship, but under certain conditions it is possible.

What you need to know about the country?

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, or KSA, is the largest state in the Arabian Peninsula and one of the most influential in the entire Middle East. The country is mainly engaged in the extraction and processing of oil.

All power in the kingdom is concentrated in the hands of the Al Saud clan, which founded the state at the beginning of the 20th century. Saudi Arabia is formally ruled by King Salman, whose power is limited only by Sharia law (Sharia is the name of Islamic legal norms closely related to religion).

In fact, the country is ruled by the king’s son – Crown Prince Mohammed, who is the youngest defense minister in the world, he is 35 years old. Now Muhammad is busy with reforms and modernization of the laws of Saudi Arabia. He seeks to return moderate Islam to the country, which is why he is popular among Saudi youth.

It was Prince Mohammed who initiated the Vision-2030 program in the country in 2016. Actually, it is a plan to reduce the dependence of the KSA on oil prices.

To do this, the Saudi authorities need to diversify the economy, attract foreign investment and develop health care, education, infrastructure, and tourism. The program became the reason for numerous changes and provoked a kind of religious “thaw” in the country.

Saudi Arabia is often mentioned in the world media as a country where the death penalty is actively used. It can threaten for premeditated murder, rape, homosexuality, terrorism, as well as possession, distribution and use of drugs.

According to Amnesty International, about 149 people were executed in 2018. From January to April 2019, 104 more people were executed, and most of them were executed for drug-related crimes. Public executions, through the beheading of an Arab saber. Nowhere else in the world is this done.

Saudi Arabia is far from the most desirable country for expats. Nevertheless, of the 26 million population of the country, 10 million are foreigners for whom emigration was an opportunity to change their lives for the better. But, before deciding to move, you need to be prepared for a number of negative moments of life in Arabia.

• The country has a rather hot climate. The average July temperature is plus 30 degrees. In summer, the thermometer often rises to fifty degrees.
• It is a religious country where the observance of external norms of behavior is controlled by special police. In addition, public display of any religion other than Islam is severely persecuted.
• In Saudi Arabia, there are serious gender restrictions; women are significantly limited in their rights.
• In terms of its political structure, this is an absolute monarchy, in which there is no place for parties and public organizations.

It is difficult for a European to adapt to the manners and customs of Saudi Arabia; it is easier for people from Muslim countries to do this.

Moving to Saudi Arabia for permanent residence, as a rule, is associated with purely pragmatic considerations, since here:

• high salaries;
• low crime rate;
• cheap gasoline;
• low taxes;
• good pension provision;
• high level of medical care;
• there is an opportunity to get a good medical education.

Saudi Arabia citizenship is possible for people who invest in the country and conduct their business here, as well as for specialists in the most demanded sectors of the economy (oil refining, information technology, telecommunications, banking).

It also welcomes promising students who wish to study at local universities and those who have married a citizen of Saudi Arabia.

Despite the closed nature of the kingdom, there are still several ways to immigrate to one of Saudi Arabia’s cities called Jeddah.

Main methods to move to Jeddah

Method one: marriage

Aboriginal Arab men are allowed to marry a woman of another faith. However, after marriage, the wife must accept to become a Muslim. After marriage, the spouse, with the permission of the spouse, is issued a residence permit for 5 years.

After a five-year period, at the request of the husband and a positive testimony from the abbot of the temple, a woman can obtain Saudi Arabian citizenship. However, it is worth considering that women in the kingdom have very few rights.

A woman cannot drive vehicles. It is forbidden for a woman to go out unaccompanied by a male relative. It is necessary to walk the streets in black national dress, with a covered head and, in some cases, a covered face.

Method two: education

There are medical, humanitarian, technical universities here. However, the quality of education in Arabia does not quite meet international standards. The inhabitants of the kingdom themselves prefer to send their children to receive education abroad.

The exception is the spiritual higher institutions. They occupy leading positions in the education system of the Islamic world and are quite prestigious. In order to become a student of a spiritual university, you can pass the entrance exams remotely or by arriving in person on a tourist visa.

Training lasts from five to seven years. Initially, a residence permit is issued only for a year, after, on the recommendation of the leadership of the theological university, until the end of the training.

Permanent residence can be obtained after 5 years of study. With a permanent residence permit, you can already apply for citizenship.

Method three: employment

The kingdom requires narrow specialists in the field of medicine, oil refining, bankers, teachers of foreign languages, programmers.

The employer inviting the employee bears all the costs associated with obtaining a visa and the arrival of the employee in the country. Also, the employer must provide housing or compensation for its cost.

Entry for an employee is provided on a work visa. With this visa, you can stay in the country for a year. Then you can get a residence permit for a year, and then for five.

Method four: investing and starting your own business

If there is a desire to invest money in the industry of Arabia, then it must be borne in mind that projects from 300 thousand dollars are being considered. An investment application is considered remotely.

If the project is of interest to the General Directorate of Investment of the Kingdom, then an investment visa is opened for a year. After the interview and approval, a temporary residence permit is given for two years.

After that, if the project has justified itself, a residence permit is given for five years. And then you can stay for permanent residence. Starting a business or buying a share of an existing one is similar to investing.

The only condition is at least 33% of the shares owned by the businessman. A commercial visa is opened, a residence permit is obtained for a year, and then for 5 years. After that there is a chance to obtain citizenship. Family members can enter Saudi Arabia with an investor or entrepreneur.

Stages of paperwork for immigrants

Visa opening. Visas are tourist, commercial, investment, work, student. The visa is opened at the Saudi Arabian Embassy or Visa Application Center after receiving permission to enter the kingdom. The residence permit is given by the Saudi Arabian Immigration Service. The initial term is 1-2 years. After that, you can get a residence permit for 5 years.

Permanent residence. Available after living in the kingdom for five years. To obtain permanent residence, you must pass the test in English or Arabic. The questions in the test relate to religion, laws, traditions and life of Muslims. It is also necessary to have grounds for obtaining such a status.

Citizenship. After 10 years (5 with a residence permit and 5 with a permanent residence), provided that you are absent from the kingdom for no more than 6 months, you can become a citizen of Arabia. For the wives of the Aryans, this period has been reduced to 5 years.

To do this, you need to score a certain number of points, which are awarded for education, type of activity, knowledge of the language, belonging to the Muslim faith and much more. If a male applicant does not score 23 points out of 33, then citizenship will be refused. It is worth considering that there can be no dual citizenship in the country.

Thus, the dream of an amazing East and the transportation of personal belongings to Saudi Arabia, in certain cases, can become a reality. However, one should not forget that the way of life and traditions of Muslims are significantly different from those familiar to citizens of other states. Therefore, before migrating to a sunny country, it is necessary to take into account all the “pitfalls” that you will have to face when moving.

Getting Saudi Arabian citizenship

It is believed that it is impossible to obtain Saudi Arabian citizenship, but this is not the case. The country has a specially executed law that describes the rules on how to get Saudi Arabian citizenship and regulates the entire process of the Saudi Arabian Citizenship System.

The application of getting citizenship can be submitted by both men and women who have been born in the country or have family ties with the Saudis, as well as foreigners who have lived in the KSA for a long time and are suitable for all conditions: long-term permanent residence, knowledge of the Arabic language, permanent place of work, no criminal record etc.

A point system is used to evaluate candidates. The maximum can be scored 33 points, while the papers will be accepted for consideration if the applicant managed to score at least 23 points.

For example, a doctoral degree in medicine or engineering will immediately receive 13 points, and for a degree in other sciences only 10. A master’s degree will add 8 points, and a bachelor’s degree – 5.

For 10 years of permanent residence in the country, 10 points are given. The Saudi father or Saudi mother (if her father is also a citizen of the KSA) will add 3 points, two or more Saudi children – 2 points.

In addition, you need to collect an impressive package of documents, confirm your religious beliefs, knowledge of the language, and much more. An important condition for obtaining citizenship of the KSA is the renunciation of the citizenship of any other country. Every application is reviewed on an individual basis, and the applicant can be refused without any explanation. In general, in practice, citizenship of the KSA is really very rare.

Jobs and salaries in Jeddah

In Saudi Arabia, there have been discussions over the past few years about setting a minimum wage. You can find regularly posted news about the government’s plans to fix or increase the salary amount for both Saudis and foreign workers.

The minimum wage in the country has not been officially established. But some media reported a figure of 3,000 SR per month for public sector workers. In the private sector and for foreigners, the minimum wage is also not fixed in any way.

According to the General Department of Statistics of Saudi Arabia, in 2018 the average salary in the country was 6300 SR. At the same time, the Saudis received an average of 10,300 SR, and foreign hired workers – 3700 SR.

At the same time, the real amount of remuneration for similar positions in different companies may differ by several thousand SAR. As in Russia, salaries for different professions in KSA can range from 1,000 to 50,000 SR per month. For example, housekeepers are often paid a little more than 1000 SR, but at the same time they are fully provided with food, housing and other necessary things. And 50,000 SR per month can be received by top managers of oil corporations.

This is how the average salaries for various occupations in Saudi Arabia look like, according to payscale.com:

neurosurgeon – 48,000 SR;

anesthesiologist – SR 25,000;

dermatologist – SR 20,000;

general practitioner – 14,000 SR;

sales manager – 14,000 SR;

internet marketer – 11,000 SR;

English teacher – 10,000 SR;

developer – 11,000 SR;

dentist – 8400 SR;

data analyst – 8400 SR;

civil engineer – 8000 SR;

nurse in dentistry – 3000 SR;

waiter – 1500 SR;

housekeeper – 1400 SR;

cleaner – 1000 SR.

You can find jobs in Saudi Arabia at Linked-in, the Middle East job search sites bayt.com, naukrigulf.com and gulftalent.com, and indeed.com internationally.

Saudisation

There are many expats in Jeddah from Europe, USA, Middle East and Asia. Highly qualified and experienced professionals in various fields – for example, in the oil and gas sector, IT and medicine – come here for high salaries. The service sector is generally occupied by employers from India, Pakistan and the Philippines. According to the same Main Department of Statistics of the KSA, 75% of employees are newcomers. The unemployment rate for Saudis is around 13%.

The government is worried about enough high level of unemployment in the country and that is why they have developed a program to “Saudize” the labor market. Their main purpose is to create more job opportunities for the Saudis. To reduce the number of labor migrants, the country changed the quotas for the number of foreign workers in companies and identified areas in which mainly or only Saudis can work.

Today, job descriptions are increasingly being labeled “For Saudi Arabians only”. In addition, the country is gradually limiting the hiring of foreign employees for some positions.

Pension in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has old age and seniority pensions. Both women and men can retire at 60. Retiring after more than 20 years of work should be agreed with the current employer, but after 25 years of work, the consent will be no longer needed.

The regular old-age pension is calculated using the following formula:

Old-age pension = (Last fixed salary × Service life in months) / 480

If a person retired after 20 years of work and his last recorded salary was 10,000 SR. then his pension should be 5,000 SR. If a person loses the ability to work outside of work, then he will be paid 40% of the last fixed wage. Some people here, continue to work after retirement.

In the public sector, the employer is responsible for the deduction of pension contributions. People employed in the private sector need to make their own payments towards future retirement. All this applies only to official employment. There is no social minimum pension: a person without official work experience can only count on social assistance and only if he himself applies for it and are able to prove that he has no relatives who will support him.

For example, upon reaching retirement age, a woman who did not have an official job and has been engaged in housekeeping and raising children all her life is not entitled to a pension. She must be supported by her husband or adult children. In case she was left alone, only after that, she will have the right to apply for social assistance from the state.

Except for these women, social assistance can also be applied by orphans or disabled people and families who have no income. The amount of payments in each case is individual and is determined after consideration of the documents. Families who have taken into the care of an orphan child are paid SR 2,000 per month for a child under 6 years old and SR 3,000 for a child over 6 years old. Orphan girls can also receive a one-time marriage subsidy from the state – 60,000 SR.

Health insurance for expats in Jeddah

As a foreign resident, you no longer have free access to the national health care system. Since 2005, foreigners living and/or working in Saudi Arabia must have health insurance.

In many cases, their employer offers them and their dependents a health policy, but it is strongly advised to check what is in the small print. Sometimes coverage may not include treatment for pre-existing conditions, dental care, or other medical services.

Therefore, you can decide to take out top-up insurance or find your own insurance. Notable service providers in Saudi Arabia are Bupa Saudia Arabia, MedGulf Arabia, and Tawuniya. Most large international companies also have an expat policy in Saudi Arabia. Due to the high competition in the Saudi Arabian insurance market, prices should be relatively reasonable.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

Expat life in Saudi Arabia is full of opportunities, and outside adventures. With a hugely ambitious national economic and social reform program currently in implementation, the Arabia kingdom is moving into a new era to favor foreigners. It’s a classic oil-rich state that holds about a fifth of the world’s proven oil.

However, Saudi Arabia is home to Islam’s holiest sites, including the cities of Mecca and Medina. It’s no doubt that religion plays a crucial role in the day-to-day life of the citizens, influencing the culture, working conditions, and even society. In fact, this country is rough twice the size of Western Europe.

The landmass is mainly deserted and there are large distances between villages. Besides, it’s only 1 percent of the land that can support agriculture. That’s why; the Arabia kingdom imports the vast majority of its food. Talking about its geography, it is located in western Asia bordered by the Red Sea.

On top of this fact, Saudi Arabia has developed 13 strategic programs that aim to transform the economy, support a wider role for women, and also create new jobs in the country. Again, work in Saudi Arabia work is underway on the $500 billion NEOM projects, covering 26,500 square kilometers.

In this article, we will walk you through the ultimate guide to living in Saudi Arabia. Aside from that, you’ll understand the facts and figures of relocating to this country. So, as an expat, worry less if you’re just visiting this country for the first time. We got you covered! So, read further to get a glimpse of it.

Reasons to Living and Working in Saudi Arabia

Have you ever asked yourself why you want to live in Saudi Arabia? Do you know the cost and every other expense? Of course, these are the questions you’ll need to ask yourself before planning your relocation process. Without further ado, let’s quickly dive into the reasons to live and work in Arabia.

Financial Prospects

One of the reasons why people move to Saudi Arabia is because of the financial prospect. The earnings are much and at the same time, salaries are tax-free. Considering this factor in many countries, you can expect to pay tax worth up to 40 to 50 percent of your earnings. In Saudi, savings would be easier than you’ve ever thought.

Global Business Skills

Having overseas work experience boosts your CV to employers. Aside from this fact, you’ll also learn to do business in other industries. On the other hand, Saudi Arabia can be one of the hardest places to do business, but it also comes with a rewarding experience. If you demonstrate your skill, employers may hire you, and pay you well.

Climate/Weather

One of the reasons why Saudi Arabia is a unique nation is because of the generous sunlight they get all year round. More so, it may be challenging to go outside for more than two to three months. While in the remaining months, you can enjoy different outdoor activities including beaches, pools, and many more.

Lifestyle and Travel

The standard of living is high in Saudi Arabia since they import nearly all their goods. Moreover, they have a low cost of living and it’s very common for expats to enlist the services of drivers, gardeners, maids, and nannies. While these depend on your preference, many foreigners enjoy a good lifestyle.

Also, Saudi Arabia is a central location for many top destinations. It has the world’s busiest airport, Dubai International Airport, and many others to mention a few. Meanwhile, the national carrier in Saudi Arabia offers world-class standards of comfort and safety.

Food/Drink/Shopping

As an expat, you can enjoy a high-quality dining experience and quality cuisines in Saudi Arabia. They have new malls that open regularly, offering consumers the biggest brands and a modern retail experience. Moreover, eating out in Saudi Arabia is a cultural experience and they are rich and flavorful.

Unique Cultural Experience

In addition to experiencing the Saudi Arabia local cultures, you’ll definitely enjoy its hospitality, and quickly learn how to become friendly. Besides, there are some interesting places to visit in Saudi Arabia. From the desert fortresses and mountain ranges to magnificent outdoor activities, living in Saudi Arabia cannot be overemphasized. Again, if you’d like to start searching for career opportunities, you can browse the available jobs in Saudi Arabia and use your CV to apply directly to the roles you’re searching for. If you’re a client, looking for the next addition to your team, we will provide different job boards (site) in Saudi Arabia to find the right candidates.

Good Transportation Network

A good transportation network connects all the major towns and cities in Saudi Arabia. Not only that, but to all of Saudi Aramco’s major communities, the roads may be congested with heavy traffic, and riving conditions. To help you get around, we’ve compiled the travel cost within the major cities in Saudi.

Key Facts Expats Need to Know About Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia polarizes expat opinion just like for other nations. While some enjoy living in traditional expat compounds, other emigrants may struggle to live in the country because of the cultures, rule, and Islamic nation. So, what is life in Saudi Arabia, and what do expat need to know. Check it out now!

1.    Sharia Law and Dynamic Islamic Culture

While you’re moving to this country, always know that you can’t resist Sharia law. That’s why it would be better to relocate to this country if you practice the Islamic religion. For decades, Saudis have interpreted their religion rather more conservatively than elsewhere in the world.

As a result of this, the nation’s cultural values have often influenced the way laws were being applied in the country. However, many other countries imbibe the Saudis tradition, which places a great emphasis on the country’s tradition. Also, men and women who weren’t related to each other can relate.

2.    Unique Family Values in Saudi Arabia

In general, Saudi Arabia has a unique private life compared to the western world. This means that their everyday activities revolve around the family, and it’s uncommon for Saudis to live close to their extended family. As the culture proclaimed, they might even drop by their grandparent’s home for dinner.

3.    Cost of Expat Accommodations

Again, Saudi Arabia remains one of the few countries in the world that has continued to offer excellent packages that include accommodation or allowances for expats. That being said, residents also claimed that they are being trimmed as the economic climate remains uncertain to many emigrants.

Furthermore, when it comes to expenses, rent is the major outlay for expats without allowances. As of June 2021, family life in this country may come with other costs. That’s why we advise you to be financially stable before planning to relocate to Saudi Arabia in 2021.

4.    Dating etiquette in Saudi Arabia

Let’s say you’ve found a lover after moving to the country for a couple of months, and you probably would love to go on a date. Well, it’s quite simple, but the fact remains that, Saudis love their first date to be on a low-key affair. As most Saudi Arabia rules don’t apply with the same compound, it would contribute to a more relaxed option for couples.

Outside of these spaces, it pays to remember that romance, dating, and pre-marital sex remain taboo in the country. Therefore, once you do find your prince or princess, be sure to dress conservatively and avoid public affectionate.

1.    Saudi Workplace In 2021

The workspace, especially in the private sector, is quite different from the rest of the world. Outsiders may take a while to appreciate that religious and cultural elements often make their way into the Saudi Arabia workspace. Meetings may take place around prayer times, and women may not choose to handshake a visitor or stranger.

However, most companies now use the Gregorian or international calendar but don’t be surprised if the company still uses the lunar Hijri calendar. Finally, be prepared to work on Sunday as the weekend spans from Friday to Saturday.

Pros and Cons of Living in Saudi Arabia (2021)

Moving abroad is no doubt an exciting concept. There are so many reasons to consider taking the step to live in a new country, especially in this 21^st century. However, there are many pros, and cons to highlight to know what favors you the most. Now, let’s take a look at the pros and cons of living here.

Saudis Attractive Salaries

One of the most appealing things that made Saudi an expat destination is the attractive salaries. In addition, there are no income taxes, and most contracts in this country come with company cars. Some of the sectors that offer opportunities in this country include construction, medicine, banking, and the IT sectors.

Low Crime Rate and Safety

There’s relatively a low crime rate in Saudi Arabia. This is because of the strict laws and extremely harsh punishments given to offenders. Not only that but many strong security measures keep the citizens from committing an offense. For instance, you’ll high walls around living compounds.

Amazing Education Options

Expats that move to Saudi Arabia with their family and friends will be pleasantly surprised with the kind of education options in the country. Due to its large expat population, you’ll definitely see many international schools around the city. Even so, there’s a high level of competition to gain admission.

Home to a Friendly Interpersonal Relationship

Many people who love to take advantage of working in Saudi Arabia shared the citizen’s friendly relationship. In a way, the country’s openness toward cosmopolitan investors encourages more economic growth and more emigrants in a different region. That’s why many expats would travel to this country based on their lifestyle.

Restaurants Food

While talking about the pros of living in Saudi Arabia, a lot of people forget to mention the food given by restaurants. As of today, the foods given by Saudi Arabia restaurants, most times, can be enough for two people to eat. This implies that you can save a huge amount of money while enjoying your stay.

Cons of Living in Saudi Arabia

If you’re planning to relocate to Saudi Arabia, you must have weighed the advantages and the disadvantages to know what exactly would work for you. Saudi Arabia has a total population of 28.7 million people with about 8 million emigrants. Without further ado, below are the cons of living in this country.

High Work Pressure

If you’re planning to work while living in Saudi Arabia, you should prepare for the high work pressure. While several companies are used to a week from Monday to Friday, Saudi Arabia’s work etiquette is different. This is because; their workweek starts on Saturdays and usually ends on Wednesdays.

Strict Immigration Rules

It’s no doubt that the immigration system in Saudi Arabia can be extremely challenging. Moreover, localization criteria also influence immigration, while the government has set a strict quota in Saudi Arabia to recruits nationals. Research also made it know those work visas are hard to obtain in Saudi.

Expensive Rent/Accommodations

While the expats compound offers security and comfort, you should be willing to pay for expensive accommodation. If you want to rent an apartment in Saudi Arabia, you should consider paying a deposit of 10 percent. On top of that, you’ll pay utility bills and could rise during the summer month due to air-con usage.

Cultural Shock and Strict Islam Rules

As aforementioned, Saudi Arabia operates under Sharia law, as it exists as an Islamic state. So, you must abide by these rules and show some understanding of the cultural expectations. Additionally, how the Saudi Arabians treats the women may shock new expats.

Also, wives of expats may not be able to work on their husband’s visas. Besides, it is mandatory to wear an Abaya when they are outside their compound. If you’re coming from a country that practices the Western culture, it might be challenging to adjust to the system as there’s no alcohol and nightlife.

Public Holidays in Saudi Arabia (2021)

Saudi Arabia Visa Requirements for Expats

It is important to remember that the majority of visas available for expats require a company to act as a sponsor. Everyone entering Saudi Arabia will definitely require a visa except if you’re from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states. But, in recent years, the immigration/visa system has experienced a few changes to encourage more foreigners and increase other foreign investment transactions.

Nonetheless, the citizens of the following countries are exempt from visa requirements for Saudi Arabia. This means, if you have only your ID card, you can enter Saudi Arabia with ease.

• Kuwait (as of 2021)
• Bahrain (as of 2021)
• Oman ( as of 2021)
• United Arab Emirates (as of 2021)

Nationality Requirements and Visa Process

To be eligible for a Saudi Arabia visa, you’ll need to have the following.

• You must be at least 18 years old, while the minors would have to be accompanied by an adult)
• Have a valid email address, and your passport has to be valid for at least another six month
• You must enter the country with the same passport with which you applied for
• Ensure you apply for a visa online or on arrival
• Apply at an Embassy or any Saudi Arabia Consulate if you’re not eligible for an eVisa

Common Types of Visas in Saudi Arabia

When you’re planning a trip to Saudi Arabia, chances are that you must first understand the kind of visa you want to apply for. After all, the types of visa you’ll need depend on the purpose of your trip. There are multiple visas for emigrants in Saudi Arabia, but you should only apply for the ones that cover your purpose. As aforementioned, there are many Saudi Arabian visa types, so take a look at them below.

●      Business Visa in Saudi Arabia – This kind of visa is issued for business purposes only. If you’re a businessman, and you choose to do your business in this country, this is the right visa. Meanwhile, it is forbidden to conduct a business visa while you’re in Saudi Arabia on a tourist type of visa. Therefore, you can get this type of visa from your country’s Saudi Arabian Consulate.

●      Hajj Visa in Saudi Arabia – This is one of the most common types of visas in Saudi Arabia. It is a special visa category that’s meant for pilgrims wanting to visit the country. Again, if you plan to obtain the hajj visa, remember that the best time to apply for it is between Mid-Shawwal and the 25^th Dhual-Qa’dah.

●      Tourist eVisa in Saudi Arabia – The country has begun to issue tourist visas to foreigners since 2013. While the government decided to enhance this factor, there are 51 eligible nationalities. If you’d like to be in this category, you can get a Saudi Arabia eVisa online but remember that the visa is for tourism only.

●      Family Visit Visa in Saudi Arabia – unless you have a family member in Saudi Arabia, you can apply to visit your family members in the country. However, many rules come with this type of visa. It is meant for US citizens or people who live and reside in the United States legally. Again, you cannot work while on a family visa, and you’re obligated to abide by the country’s rules and regulations.

●      Work Visa in Saudi Arabia – Saudi Arabia work visa allow you to gain employment opportunities in the country. During this process, your employer has to provide a Saudi work permit for you. And once you receive your work permit, you’re eligible for a residence permit from the Ministry of Labor in KSA.

●      Saudi Arabia Student Visa – Saudi Arabia allows foreigners to study in the country. Before or during this process, you must have secured admission from an accredited institution before traveling to the country. Afterward, your institution will verify your authenticity before you can apply for a study visa.

●      Transit Visa in Saudi Arabia – The Saudi Transit visa is meant for citizens who need to fly to a third country en route to Saudi Arabia. They are not visa-exempt for the KSA but will get the Saudi Arabia transit visa.

Saudi Arabia Visa Fees (Subjected to Change)

It should be noted that the Saudi Arabia visa fees can change anytime without proper notification. Therefore, the analysis above will show an average visa processing fee in the country. On top of that, you’ll need to pay a certain amount of money for VAT at the applicable rates in the KSA.

COVID-19 Related Restrictions in Saudi Arabia

As of June 30, 2021, the authorities in Saudi Arabia have continued to maintain a strict restriction to Covid-19. In response to the spread of a new variant, an entry ban has been placed on many countries including India, Argentina, Egypt, Brazil, Pakistan, South Africa, Lebanon, Turkey, and Indonesia.

Other restrictions affected by the global pandemic include mandate use of protective face coverings, limiting public gatherings, compliance with social distancing, and many others to mention a few. Therefore, abide by the national health and safety measure to enjoy your next visitation.

Conclusion

The standard of living is high in Saudi Arabia. This way, it’s quite okay to be financially buoyant before planning to relocate to Saudi Arabia. Most expats in this country live in Jeddah and Riyadh because of its Western amenities. Nonetheless, if you’re planning to relocate to this country, read this expat guide to understand what it takes to explore the Saudi Arabian community.

Investments for expats in Saudi Arabia – that will be the topic of today’s article. Nothing written on this page should be considered as formal financial advice.

For any questions, or if you are looking to invest, you can contact me using  this form, or email (advice@adamfayed.com).

Introduction – what does an advisor do?

If we talk about money, then we are all involuntarily involved in a constant financial movement. 

After all, every day we perform various monetary transactions. And it depends only on us how conscious this movement will be on the scale of our entire life. To control the future, we need to: 

• Manage our cash flows
• Turn the future into a set of clear, measurable financial goals
• Make a plan to achieve these goals
• Carry out your plan

This is a common situation with which a financial consultant works. 

Along with this, a special case is also possible. A person already clearly understands what tasks he is striving for. 

He only needs a specialist who will help you choose the right strategy for achieving the goal. And he will offer the best tools for solving important tasks. In both of these cases, a personal financial advisor is helpful.

The problem for many people is that they have no control over their cash flows. And as a result, they live chaotically, not understanding where they are going financially.

So shortly, a financial advisor is an investment specialist who knows how to save and increase money. 

He/she assesses the financial condition and resources of his client, develops an investment policy for him, a scheme for working with banks, brokerage and insurance companies, helps him make financial decisions and manage the budget. 

Ideally, a consultant is able to solve all the financial problems of a company or individual. Later in this article we will tell you about financial advisors in Saudi Arabia, and how you can achieve your financial goals with their assistance.

The financial advisors can work both independently and on the staff of a bank, investment, insurance or any large company.

Typically, the main job responsibilities of a financial advisor are:

• information support for clients on investment issues;
• budget development (personal, family, corporate);
• forecasting monthly income and expenses – maintaining a financial plan;
• selection of individual and corporate investment programs;
• participation in the development of the company’s pricing policy;
• preparation of statistical reports (based on the results of the company’s activities, work in the financial markets, etc.).

There are a lot of expatriates living in Saudi Arabia or planning to move there, and probably among them are either businessmen or individuals and many others who are interested in making stronger their finance and need someone who will assist them in further financial decisions.

Let’s see where you can find and how you can contact a financial advisor, and what kind of services he can offer you. To start, let’s say that there are a few types of financial advisory;

• Bank financial advisor
• Local financial advisor
• Online financial advisor

1. Bank financial advisor