Relocating to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) in 2025 offers an exciting opportunity for professionals looking to grow their careers and experience a unique culture. Whether your destination is Riyadh, Jeddah, or Dammam, moving abroad takes planning, flexibility, and the right support. Here’s what to consider before you go, from visas and housing to lifestyle and logistics.
What to expect from this blog:
- Planning your move and setting priorities
- Securing visas and understanding sponsorship
- Managing costs and budgeting for living in Saudi Arabia
- Choosing the right city and neighbourhood
- Adapting to local culture and customs
- Moving with family and schooling considerations
- Preparing logistics for a smooth relocation
Before Your Move
Before anything else, be clear on why you’re actually moving.
- Is it for career growth, financial stability, or a long-term lifestyle change?
- Will your family be joining you?
- How long do you plan to stay?
Understanding your priorities for your move can help you to make decisions about contracts, housing, and the kind of life you want to build in Saudi Arabia.
Work Visas and Sponsorship
Employment in Saudi Arabia operates under a sponsorship system. Your employer will typically arrange your work visa and residence permit (Iqama), and may also assist with dependents’ documentation.
Key checks before you go:
- What visa and relocation support does your employer provide
- Legal residence requirements under the Iqama system
- How your UK tax and National Insurance obligations will change
Ready to move?
Cost of Living and Finances
While salaries in Saudi Arabia are often tax-free, your expenses can vary depending on your lifestyle and the city you reside in.
| EXPENSE | TYPICAL CONSIDERATIONS |
|---|---|
| Housing | Compound housing offers Western-style amenities but comes at a higher cost; local districts are more affordable. |
| Utilities & Internet | Around £100-300/month, depending on usage. |
| Groceries | Generally comparable to UK supermarket prices. |
| Transport | Petrol is inexpensive; car ownership is common. |
| Healthcare | Often covered by employers, but confirm full family coverage. |
It’s wise to keep a relocation fund covering flights, shipping, and two to three months of living costs until fully settled.
Choosing Where to Live
| CITY | LIFESTYLE | BEST FOR |
|---|---|---|
| Riyadh | Modern capital, excellent schools, strong job market | Families and professionals |
| Jeddah | Coastal, relaxed, multicultural | Expats and those seeking a seaside lifestyle |
| Dammam / Eastern Province | Industrial and logistics hub, quieter | Energy sector workers and long-term residents |
When choosing your home, consider commuting times, schools, healthcare access, and local amenities.
Adjusting to Culture and Daily Life
Saudi Arabia has modernised quickly, but its traditions remain strong.
- Dress modestly and respect public customs.
- Be mindful of prayer times, Ramadan, and public holidays.
- The weekend is Friday – Saturday, and the work culture can be more formal than in the UK.
Joining expat communities, social clubs, or professional networks can make adjusting easier and help you feel at home faster. See Simone’s blog about settling down in Saudi Arabia as a Brit.
Moving with Family
If your family is joining you, research international schools early. Many follow the British or IB curriculum, but places can be competitive. Verify that your employer’s healthcare plan covers dependents, and consider purchasing private top-ups if necessary. For a balanced lifestyle, consider exploring local parks, beaches, and family-friendly leisure options. Saudi Arabia’s family-friendly infrastructure continues to grow rapidly.
Preparing for the move
If your family is joining you, research international schools early. Many follow the British or IB curriculum, but places can be competitive. Verify that your employer’s healthcare plan covers dependents, and consider purchasing private top-ups if necessary. For a balanced lifestyle, consider exploring local parks, beaches, and family-friendly leisure options. Saudi Arabia’s family-friendly infrastructure continues to grow rapidly.
Plan early, stay organised, and make use of relocation support where possible.
- Research your chosen city and neighbourhoods
- Create a timeline for visas, shipping, housing, and school enrolment
- Pack appropriately for the climate, essentials first, luxury items later
- Learn basic Arabic phrases and social etiquette
- Connect with current expats online before arrival
Give yourself time to adapt. Moving abroad is both a professional and personal milestone, one that offers growth, opportunity, and perspective. From shipping your belongings to relocating vehicles or pets, our dedicated removals team and Move Managers make international moves simple, safe and stress-free.
