Riyadh is the largest and the capital city of Saudi Arabia. It is part of a hot desert called an-Nafud desert of the Arabian Peninsula. The climate here is a typical hot desert type. The capital city caters to the needs of 5 million people every year, making it the 49th most visited city in the world and 6th in the Middle East.
Riyadh is densely populated and is considered to be among the most popular cities present in Saudi Arabia sheltering close to 7 million people as of 2022. The population mostly comprises migrants (40%) from all over the world.
With such geography and demography, the influx of migrants in the city has been steadily increasing. Also, the student population forms a major share as the city hosts some of the best education institutions in the world. So, if you are considering moving to Riyadh here’s a useful and simple guide that will help you plan your journey.
Benefits of living in Riyadh
- Riyadh provides ample employment opportunities for skilled as well as unskilled workforce. Thereby promising a secure livelihood.
- The city has a number of international schools as well as excellent healthcare facilities to cater to the needs of academia and medical tourists.
- The infrastructure is modern and well-equipped to easily provide for a large population.
- The city has stringent laws that have ensured lower crime rates.
- The city of Riyadh is an amalgamation of diverse cultures making it a vibrant society.
- The prices of petrol and automobiles are comparatively less.
- The population traditionally speaks Arabic, however, with the influx of diverse groups of population from across the globe, people are fluent in English as well. This ensures that the language barrier in communication is negated.
These perks of living in Riyadh thus make it an attractive location for your residence.
How to Move to Riyadh?
If you are sure about moving to Riyadh, then there are a few things that you should be aware of. At ISS Relocations, the best movers packers Riyadh, we provide you with all the help that you will need. We provide personal guidance and 24-hour support alongside all the resources that will make the relocation easier for you.
The first step involves determining if you are eligible to immigrate to Riyadh or not. You will need to go through dedicated procedures depending on the nature of your residency and the purpose of relocation. Example: For the worker population Emigration Clearance (EC) granted by the Ministry of External Affairs is necessary, alongside the sponsorship from the sponsor/employer (Kafeel) under Kafala System in Saudi Arabia.
Once you have figured out eligibility and emigration clearance, the next step is to search for accommodation, a job, and other miscellaneous paperwork (all of which will be handled by our team).
Moving to Riyadh – Visa requirements:
Unless you do not belong to one of the following countries- Bahrain, UAE, Qatar or Oman, you will need a visa to visit Saudi Arabia. The type of visa will depend on your reason and duration of stay.
List of Visas:
1. Business Visa
A Business Visa is required for business travelers and not the employees indulged in paid employment. The business visa is valid only for business talks, deals, negotiations, and investments. For a business visa, you require:
- A valid passport
- Completed application form
- Letter from the employer, a Saudi company, a foreign chamber of commerce in Riyadh, etc. to prove your position and purpose of the visit.
- Visa fee
- Online visa request number
2. Employment Visa
Employment Visa is for people who are planning to take up paid employment in the country. This runs along the lines of the sponsorship (Kafala) system. For the Employment visa you will require-
- A valid passport
- Completed application form
- Letter from your sponsor certified by the Ministry of External Affairs and the Chamber of Commerce in your country.
- Reference note with the number and date of your employment permit.
- Certified and notarized diplomas
- Job contract
- Medical examination results
- Up-to-date criminal record
- Visa request number
3. Residence Visa
Residence Visa is required in cases where you are planning to accompany your expat spouse living in Saudi Arabia. In this case, your spouse living in Saudi Arabia becomes your sponsor and guardian. Saudi Arabia generally does not allow for the male spouse with a working wife as a sponsor. For a residence visa you will require-
- A valid passport
- Completed application form
- Letter from your sponsor certified by the Ministry of External Affairs and the Chamber of Commerce in your country.
- Reference note with the number and date of your employment permit.
- Certified and notarized diplomas
- Job contract
- Medical examination results
- Up-to-date criminal record
- Visa request number
(All of the requirements for Employment Visa)
Some Additional Requirements:
Official proof of kinship (notarized marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.)
Note: All these regulations are subject to change and shall vary for the country you are applying from. Saudi Arabia does not allow for dual citizenship, so if you are planning to acquire citizenship you must consult your legal advisor. After receiving the visa, you must tally it with your local calendar as the duration mentioned is the visa is for the Islamic calendar.
Cost of Living in Riyadh:
Housing:
A wide range of housing options is available in Riyadh from 1-2-3 bedroom flats, apartments, and townships. You may choose your best option according to your budget, necessities, and location. As the best moving company Riyadh, we will guide you throughout this process as well and provide you with the best accommodation with respect to your preferences.
| Housing Type | Average Cost (SAR) |
|---|---|
| Rented studio | 2500 SAR |
| 1BHK | 2800 SAR |
| 2BHK | 3200 SAR |
| 3BHK | 4000 SAR |
| Buying an apartment | 3000000- 9000000 SAR |
Healthcare System:
Saudi Arabia has a world-class healthcare system. It provides free health care services to the nationals. The expatriates may require a fee but it can be reduced against the medical insurance. The quality of services is good, the hospitals are well-equipped and have a highly trained workforce.
Education:
In Saudi Arabia, primary education throughout high school is open and free to nationals. There are private international schools and universities that provide world-class education. The city greatly attracts medical students from across the world.
Taxation:
The Saudi Arabia government does not impose any personal income tax. However, non-Saudi and non-GCC residents are liable to pay 20% tax on their income.
Employment:
The city has become the economic and commercial hub for Saudi Arabia as well as the Middle East, hosting a large workforce. The people are engaged in all sectors of the economy- primary, secondary, and tertiary. In this aspect too, we shall be helping you find your best fit based on your requirements.
Best Areas to Live in Riyadh:
Al-Olaya and As-Sulaymaniyah: These areas form the business districts in Riyadh located to the north of the city. For people who have their offices in the center of the city, this is an ideal location. The houses here are smaller and less spacious, mostly suitable for single young professionals. The facilities of recreational spaces are less.
Al-Muhammadiyah: This is a prestigious and highly sought-after location. The houses are usually large, spacious, and luxurious. This location is largely known for top-end restaurants. All other facilities are closer to the area.
Al-Nakheel: It is another popular expat neighborhood. It has a dense presence of international schools and preschools. This location is suitable for small as well as large families.
General Advice
The climate in Saudi Arabia and mostly in the region of Riyadh is hot. The rains and winters are usually for short spells with little to no relief. The culture here is vibrant with large ethnic diversity.
Final Overview
If you still have any questions about whether or not to relocate to Riyadh, any other tips and general advice for Riyadh Movers, and need any service or guidance for your plan, feel free to reach out to us. You can contact us through the contact numbers and email IDs available on the official website. At ISS Relocations, the best International movers and packers in Riyadh, ensure that all your moving requirements are addressed to perfection. The primary objective of ISS is to simplify the aspect of moving. Be sure to join hands with the ISS team if you are looking for the best moving solutions at affordable pricing points.
