Moving to Saudi Arabia
from Australia

Moving and Living in Saudi Arabia

For those looking for something new and exciting, living in Saudi Arabia is the perfect choice. With delicious food scenes and a diverse culture that welcomes all newcomers, you can be sure that your move here will be nothing short of an enriching experience.

Sitting in the heart of the Middle East on the Arabian Peninsula, Saudi Arabia has a healthy population of 35 million residents. Major cities include Jeddah, Dammam and Mecca, with Riyadh being the capital. Jeddah and Riyadh come with all the modern amenities you expect from a Western city. Saudi Arabia is mostly desert, with the population distributed in the eastern and western coastal towns. There is a small population in the interior oases, however, much of the country remains an empty desert due to the hot climate. Expect extremely hot summers and mild winters, with very little rainfall.

Life in Saudi Arabia is surprisingly social. Immigrants often form strong bonds, and weekends are centred on compound gatherings, trips into the desert and diving excursions.

Sharia Law and Islam are closely interwoven in daily life. Foreigners are permitted to practice their religion of choice in private, however preaching is strictly forbidden. Bear in mind that you are a guest in their Kingdom, so it is advised to respect Islamic laws and customs. For women living in Saudi Arabia, you are not required to wear an abaya (a long and flowing black rope) but it is advised to blend in when out in public. This can be worn over your everyday clothing. To comply with public decency laws, women should cover their knees and shoulders in any public setting.

Although Arabic is the official language spoken, English is widely spoken and understood in businesses. The SAR (Saudi Arabian Riyal) is the currency of the Kingdom, and they appreciate a 10 percent tipping rate. Affordability in Saudi Arabia is for foreigners varies depending on your lifestyle and chosen city to reside in. Housing and food are reasonable, whereas luxury items and imported goods can be pricey. Accommodation such as simple apartments to lavish villas for all budgets are available. Electricity, water and gas is relatively low in cost; however, transport costs can vary depending on mode and distance travelled. The minimal expense of petrol and purchasing a car makes driving and taxis affordable. You may choose to either drive yourself or have a personal driver.