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

Life as an expat in Riyadh can come as a culture shock to some people. If you check our previous post often, you’d have seen our post on living in Saudi Arabia as an expat. While the overall quality of life is great in this city, some aspects are very different from other parts of the world. But don’t be scared!

Gender segregation will be part and parcel of your day. And you’ll mostly live in the bubble of your compound with other expats. So, worry less and read through the living in Saudi Arabia as an expat. This will surely give you an edge on what to expect. So, you might love the city if you’re from a Muslim background.

Overall, Saudi Arabian schools teach exclusively through Arabic and might not admit non-citizens. So, an international school may be the best option for your children in Saudi Arabia. But before you begin your search, you need to consider some important points. Are you sure you want to know it?

If that sounds like a yes, we’ve got you covered. In fact, be aware that the majority of the school in Riyadh teaches through the English language. Not only that, but they also follow the American school system and curriculum. More so, you’ll find a large selection of schools in this capital city with excellent Islamic, Australian, Indian, and even French curricula.

However, if you’ve been surfing the internet to get the right information about the best international schools in Riyadh, you’re on the right platform. Here, we will walk you through the benefits of studying in Riyadh. Not only that, but you’ll understand more about the pros and cons of living in the capital city.

Pros of Living in Riyadh in 2021

Before we walk you through the best international schools in Riyadh as of today, you must know what living in the capital city entails. Of course, moving abroad is an exciting concept, and there are many reasons to consider taking this step. But let’s quickly walk you through the pros now.

Attractive Salaries in Riyadh

This is one of the major reasons why expat would love to live in this city. Riyadh is known for its healthy salaries with the prospect of no income tax, unlike other cities in the world. In addition to this, most of the contracts also come with the company’s cars, education allowance, and medical covers. Meanwhile, some sectors that can afford to offer these opportunities include banking, medicine, IT, and more.

Safety and Security Measures

The safety and security measures in Riyadh cannot be overemphasized. And since safety needs to be a concern in a new country, laws and extremely hard punishments are strongly in place in this city. This way, there are many strong security measures in areas, such as high walls around living compounds, and guards are also prevalent.

Excellent Education Options

Just as we’ve said earlier, the benefits of studying in Riyadh cannot be inundated. In fact, expats that move to this city with their family and children will be pleasantly be surprised with the education options. Also, due to its large expat community and population, there are many international schools around the city. Even so, there’s a high level of competition to gain a place, and school fees are pricey.

Comfortable Compounds in Riyadh

Typically, all expats in Riyadh live in compounds of apartments and villas that are found in the eastern and northern suburbs of the city. These gated communities offer expats a comforting place to enjoy a relaxed and enjoyable lifestyle. Meanwhile, most of these compounds have all the home comforts that expat would need to enjoy their lifestyle.

Exclusively New Shopping Experience

Apart from finding home comfort, Riyadh can also be a shopping destination for you. This is solely because; many of the leisure activities common to western tastes aren’t present. However, Riyadh certainly has a huge array of shops to counter this, with their thriving indoor and outdoor malls.

Cons

Expensive Accommodation

Expensive accommodation can be a problem if you’re moving to this city for the first time. Although the expat compound offers security and comfort, but you must work for it if you want safety and security measures. However, rent within this compound can be expensive, not to mention as well a 10% deposit.

Expect Culture Shock

Since Riyadh is the capital city, culture shock is something you can’t do without in Saudi Arabia. Expats are expected to respect this and show some level of understanding of the cultural expectations. Not only that, but the treatment of women in the country often shock expat coming to the country for the first time. More so, wives of expats may not be able to work in the city on their husband’s visas.

Ramadan Business

Since the country is a notable Islamic nation, you should be aware of business ethics during Ramadan. This is because; business can be slow during Ramadan, and you don’t need to expect to get much done during this time. Therefore, western expats are advised to treat it like the Christmas holidays, but lasting for an entire month.

Benefits of Studying in Riyadh

If you’ve decided to study abroad but can’t decide where to put your head, Saudi Arabia is the best. Perhaps you might have considered some of the biggest international destinations in the UK, USA, and others, but none of them has quite captured your imagination. Worry less, and check below for more.

Growing in Prominence

It’s no doubt that Saudi Arabian universities or institutions are growing in prominence. With a steady increase in government spending on higher education, the country has taken active steps over the past decade to develop its educational system. With 29 Saudi Arabian universities ranked in the top 100 institutions of the world, the benefits of studying in this country cannot be overemphasized.

Amazing Travel Opportunities in Saudi

One of the many perks of living in Saudi Arabia is just how much traveling you can get done whenever you have a spare bit of time in the country. This means a short stay to study in Riyadh can allow you to have a short drive to the red sea and an hour or a half’s flight from Dubai or Oman.

Diverse International Community

With many institutions offering generous scholarships to international students and most courses taught in English, many institutions in Riyadh have large numbers of international students already enrolled and catering to many expats families in the city.

This means, if you study in Riyadh, you’ll have the chance to make friends with both the locals and students from all over the world. And if you decide to work in the city after your studies, you’ll most likely cross paths with young professionals from a host of different cultural backgrounds.

Opportunity to Save Money

Keen to become more international, many institutions in Saudi Arabia is eager to attract international students and offer various funding incentives and scholarships to ex-pat. Aside from this fact, the costs of living in the capital city are relatively low compared to many parts of the world. Again, renting a one-bedroom apartment in Riyadh will cost you around US400 per month. This means you can rent a house while schooling as an expat.

Opportunities to Study and Work

Development in the country’s economy has opened up opportunities for international graduates to work for a fixed number of years in different sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, banking, and many others, to mention a few. Meanwhile, you’ll need a sponsor to help you secure your employment visa, but this could be your employer in the long run.

Enhancing Your International Experience

As a parent, if you choose to enroll your child in any international school, there are more opportunities to boost their curriculum vitae in the long run. Perhaps with a short period of work experience in Riyadh, you’ll have the opportunity to speak within your field broadly. Moreover, the broad range of soft skills gained from studying abroad will undoubtedly help you impress recruiters in all kinds of roles.

International Exposure

Studying in the best international school in Saudi Arabia will give you or your children international exposure. This is because; it helps you learn new approaches to handle different situations, experience international methods, manage time between your studies, and help you handle different situations.

Best International Schools in Riyadh

Religion, or Islam, to be specific, has been a big part of life in Saudi Arabia since its inception. During the holy month of Ramada, those who practice Islam fast. This way, there are many restrictions to normal daily life too, including the school day. Without further ado, below are the best international schools in Riyadh.

1.    SEK International School in Riyadh

SEK-Riyadh is a co-educational, multilingual international school in Saudi Arabia. They offer locals and expatriate community advanced learning to become helpful people. The school languages of instruction are the English language.

However, students aged 3 to 13 years can enroll in the school with ease in the admission process. Aside from this fact, SEK international schools have a rich tradition of pedagogical innovation and leadership in Spain and worldwide.

2.    Advanced Learned Schools

The advanced learning schools are private, international day schools that offer a full instructional programme, from Kindergarten to Grade 12, for boys and girls who meet the school requirements and conditions. Not only that, but the school year consists of two semesters while the calendar is aligned with the state. This means that, while local students maintain and develop their place, students from other countries are able to gain first-hand experience of the culture of Saudi Arabia.

3.    King Faisal School

The King Faisal School offers the IB primary year’s programme, IB middle years programme, and IB diploma programme. KFS aims to raise intellectual students using the national and international educational programme to develop students mentally, physically, and intellectually in the country.

4.    British International School, Riyadh

The British international school is another place to enroll your kids if you’re looking to get a quality education in the country. The BISR follows the National curriculum for England to the end of year 9 and many others. Also, this school benchmarks itself against private and leading states, and it has a good standard. Moreover, it has a long link with British universities and a strong relationship with the RGB.

5.    Al Faris International School

Al Faris international school aims to foster an understanding, intercultural, and highly effective learning environment that inspires students to become knowledgeable, compassionate, and a better version of themselves. Again, they are one of the fully certified IB World Schools that follow the philosophy and teaching methodology of the IB Programme, which centers on inquiry-based learning whereby students actively guide the learning process through inquiry and discovery.

6.    My Little School International

This is also one of the best schools in Riyadh that has the vision to become the leading elementary school in Saudi Arabia. They focus on fostering a stimulating environment tailored to meet the needs of every child’s mind, empowering them emotionally, physically, morally, and intellectually. Aside from this fact, they also offer a trilingual program and a unique learning environment where children are encouraged to be useful, functional, and creative.

7.    Manarat Al Riyadh International School

Manarat Al Riyadh international school has a very long history when it comes to education. This school aims to widen the creativity and innovation horizons of a child using internationally recognized standards. Also, it’s at the forefront of the national and international contests in terms of results and participation. So, if you’re looking to enroll your child in one of the best schools in Saudi Arabia, consider Manarat.

8.    Al Forsan International School

Al-Forsan international school is unique in international education, and they’re creative in qualifying the future generations to meet their era demand, being committed to their culture and identity. Aside from this fact, the school is dedicated to providing international education while ensuring that students remain firmly rooted in their own language and culture.

9.    Qimam El-Hayat International School

This school has also made it to the best international schools in the country. They adopt a world curriculum that consolidates student’s performance through highly qualified teachers. Not only that, but along with aspiring leaders, the QHIS has set a vision that motivates and ignites student’s talents. More so, the school leaders spare no effort to provide directions and allocate resources to implement curricular and extracurricular programs that take the students to paths of high learning expectations.

10. Dome International School, Riyadh

Dome international school is the last on our list. And why Dome made it to the best schools in Riyadh is because it offers American and British curricula. Also, the American curriculum in this institution is embedded in the international foundation program for grades, orientation programs, and the America diploma program. They provide a diverse community with learners from over 36 nationalities worldwide.

Types of International Schools in Saudi Arabia

Since we’ve explained the best international schools in Riyadh, it’s quite essential to know the types. International schools are the ones that fully educate children between the ages of 2 and above about learning, skills, and more. Without further ado, below are the types of international schools in Saudi Arabia.

International Baccalaureate (IB)

The International Baccalaureate program is an academic structure that emphasizes critical thinking, writing, creativity, and extracurricular service. Moreover, students are able to study literature, math and science, and art at the end of secondary school. Also, the research disclosed that 19 schools offer the IB program.

International GCSE (IGCSE) School

This is another type of international school in Saudi Arabia. The international general certificate of the secondary school follows the British curriculum model, and it’s structured in three stages. However, once a student completes them, they receive an A-level qualification, which allows them to apply to different universities in their given field.

American High School Diploma

The American High School divides its structures into elementary, high school, and middle, but it is generally less structured than other models. In this type of school, students must be good in their academics and must pass their required exams before they can graduate. Meanwhile, this school is convenient because they offer students Advanced Placement courses and exams, which can count as college credit in the US, and SAT preparation classes.

How to Choose the Best Schools

Choosing the best international schools in Riyadh is quite easy. And for the fact that Saudi Arabia has a large local population, there aren’t as many international and private schools as you might find in its more expat-heavy neighbors. Therefore, narrowing down your options is a little simpler. Check the process below.

• Understand the kind of language they speak and consider which curriculum and teaching style would suit your child best
• Know the type of curriculum they use and what your children can benefits from the school in the long run
• Inspect the school to know whether there are competent teachers that’d help your kids grow
• Choose a focus, check out past records, make a list, and trust your gut
• Consider your child, environment, and understand what they want or what would excite them in the school
• Gather information and make your personal research about schools in the country and other cities
• Apply to you choose, check the admission process, and submit paperwork for follow up consultation and all

Frequently Asked Questions about Riyadh Education

Where does Saudi Arabia Rank in education?

When it comes to international education, Saudi Arabia is trying its best to emerge as the top 20 in the world today. Aside from this fact, they have been featured as having the 36^th best higher education system in the world and in the first edition of the QS higher education system strength rankings.

What’s the cultural shock to expect in Riyadh?

Culture shock is something you should expect not only in Riyadh but in Saudi Arabia as a whole. And according to the 1992 Basic Law of Governance, the country’s official religion is Islam, and the constitution is the Quran and Sunna. This way, the legal system is based largely on sharia as interpreted by the Hanbali school of Sunni Islamic jurisprudence.

What is considered rude in Riyadh?

Well, we can definitely walk you through the things that are rude in Saudi Arabia. As a student, there are certain things you’ll need to be wary about in the country.  For example, you can only use your right hand for shaking hands or for handling anything. Here, it is considered rude to use your left hand in Islam. This way, you need to respect the religion and understand that the shops do close during prayer.

Can I bring my bible to Riyadh International School?

Since the country strictly adheres to sharia law, as stated above, it may be quite challenging to bring your bible to this country. On the flip side, bringing a bible for personal use is allowed if you plan not to go against the rule of the constitution or the government. The official form of Islam is Sunni of the Hanbali School, in its Salafi version. So, be careful about the kind of religion you’re bringing to the country while schooling.

How long is a school day in Saudi Arabia?

School hours in Saudi Arabia and international schools are usually from 7 am to 3:30 pm. So, if you’re planning to enroll your child in the best international school, endeavor to check the extra school activities and whether the school opening or closing hours are suitable for you and good for your child.

How can Riyadh improve its education?

There are many ways for the Saudi Arabia government to improve their education. College readiness and assessment strategy, system-wide planning and strategy, career readiness, teacher education, professional development, and many other things to check to improve the city education.

Conclusion

While you might be thinking that choosing the best international school is good, it’s always better to understand the process. Meanwhile, follow the steps in this article to understand better Riyadh and Saudi Arabia’s education system at large. You can refer to our next post to know more about Riyadh.

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

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.