Working and Living in Saudi Arabia: A Comprehensive Guide
By: Javid Amin
Saudi Arabia has long been a top destination for expatriates seeking job opportunities in the Gulf region. The Kingdom offers numerous advantages, from tax-free income and a strong Islamic environment to a high standard of living. However, life in Saudi Arabia comes with its unique set of challenges. This comprehensive guide aims to provide valuable insights and actionable advice for those planning to live and work in this fascinating country.
Advantages of Working in Saudi Arabia
1. Islamic Environment
For Muslim expatriates, one of the most appealing aspects of living in Saudi Arabia is the strong Islamic atmosphere. Mosques are ubiquitous, and it’s easy to maintain religious practices, as prayer facilities are readily available in offices, malls, and residential areas.
2. Safety and Security
Saudi Arabia is considered one of the safest countries in the region. The crime rate is low, and stringent security measures ensure a safe environment for families and individuals alike.
3. High Living Standards
The Kingdom boasts modern infrastructure, advanced healthcare facilities, and numerous entertainment options, making it a comfortable place to live.
4. Proximity to Makkah and Madinah
Living in Saudi Arabia offers the unique privilege of being near the two holiest cities in Islam. Depending on your city, you can visit Makkah and Madinah multiple times a year, making it easier to perform Umrah.
5. Cultural Exposure
Saudi Arabia is home to a diverse expatriate population, providing ample opportunities for cross-cultural interactions and broadening one’s outlook.
6. Personal Growth
Living away from home encourages personal and professional growth. It fosters independence and helps individuals value relationships and social connections.
7. Tax-Free Income
The absence of income tax allows expatriates to enjoy better savings compared to many other countries.
8. Employment Benefits
Many employers offer attractive benefits, including paid vacation, annual flight tickets, and end-of-service gratuity.
Disadvantages & Challenges
1. Job Suitability & Pay
Finding a job that aligns with your qualifications and experience is crucial. Unfortunately, some individuals fall victim to fraudulent agents and end up in unsuitable roles.
2. Limited Social Life
Expatriates, particularly bachelors, may face loneliness due to limited social interactions. Families may also miss the presence of extended relatives.
3. Work Pressure & Long Hours
Work hours in Saudi Arabia are often longer than in other regions. Many companies require employees to work 8-10 hours daily, six days a week, with strict deadlines and high-pressure environments.
4. Remote Postings
Some jobs require postings in desert areas far from major cities, making living conditions challenging.
5. Adapting to Lifestyle Changes
Long-term settlement in Saudi Arabia can make it difficult to readjust to life back in one’s home country.
6. Extreme Weather
The summer heat can be intense, with temperatures exceeding 50°C in some regions, limiting outdoor activities.
Work System & Salary Structure
Salary Components
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- Basic Salary: Core component of your earnings.
- Housing Allowance: Typically 25% of the basic salary.
- Transport Allowance: Usually 10% of the basic salary.
Working Hours
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- Standard contracts: 8 hours per day, 6 days a week.
- Some companies extend it to 10 hours daily.
Overtime
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- Paid at 1.5 times the basic salary on an hourly basis.
Vacation
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- Typically 21 to 30 days of paid leave per year.
Medical Insurance
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- Employers provide medical insurance for employees.
- Family medical insurance is included only for family-status contracts.
Annual Air Tickets
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- Employers provide economy-class tickets for employees. Family tickets are included only in family-status contracts.
Job Contracts
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- Single Status: Employer covers only the employee’s expenses.
- Family Status: Employer covers medical insurance and airfare for a spouse and up to two children.
Salary Range
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- Salaries typically range from 1,000 SAR to 40,000 SAR per month, with higher salaries for management roles.
Ideal Salary for a Family
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- A salary of 14K to 18K SAR per month is advisable for a decent lifestyle and savings.
Career Growth
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- Salary increments often come through switching companies rather than internal promotions.
Living Expenses in Saudi Arabia
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- If company accommodation and food are provided, expenses are minimal.
- Clothing and mobile expenses are the main costs.
For Bachelors Renting Privately
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- Flat-sharing with other bachelors helps reduce rent and food expenses.
For Families
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- Renting a decent apartment costs between 10K to 50K SAR per year, depending on size and location.
- Electricity bills typically range from 250 to 600 SAR per month.
- Grocery and miscellaneous expenses: 4,000 to 6,000 SAR per month for a small family.
Transport
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- Taxis are expensive; most people buy cars via installments, averaging 1,500 SAR per month for mid-range cars like Yaris, Elantra, and Corolla.
Internet
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- Monthly internet bills range from 200 to 400 SAR.
Leisure Activities
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- Additional expenses for outings and entertainment vary.
Family Visa Options
1. Visit Visa
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- Short-term (1 year) but renewable annually.
- Cost: Around 15,000 INR per year per person.
- No medical insurance or schooling for kids.
- Must renew every 3 months.
2. Permanent Family Visa (on Iqama)
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- Allows family to stay permanently with access to medical insurance and schools.
- Requires 400 SAR per month per family member in advance as tax.
Medical Costs & Insurance
Medical Treatment Costs
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- Simple doctor visits: 100 to 300 SAR.
- Surgeries can be costly without insurance.
Insurance Coverage
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- Employees receive medical insurance.
- Family insurance is only available with family-status contracts.
Emergency Medical Situations
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- Without insurance, emergency medical situations can be financially challenging.
Maternity Costs
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- Childbirth and prenatal care can be expensive if not covered by insurance.
Impact on Personal Life & Long-Term Considerations
Focus on Career & Family
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- Daily life often revolves around work, career growth, and family responsibilities.
Parents Visiting
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- Parents may visit occasionally but often prefer returning home due to lifestyle differences.
Returning to Kashmir
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- Adjusting back to life in Kashmir can be challenging due to children’s lifestyle preferences and financial liabilities.
Reality Check
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- Some expatriates regret returning to Kashmir and eventually return to the Gulf for work.
Entry into the Saudi Job Market: A Comprehensive Guide
1. Ways to Enter Saudi Arabia for Employment
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- Securing a Job with a Confirmed Work Visa: Apply directly or through reputable recruitment agencies.
- Understanding the Iqama System: Ensure timely payment and renewal to avoid legal complications.
- Buying a Visa from a Local Sponsor: Be cautious as this involves significant financial risks.
- Transfer of Sponsorship: Allows a smoother transition to a better job.
- Visit and Umrah Visas: Not valid for employment.
2. Job Opportunities and Salaries
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- Major industries include Oil & Gas, Healthcare, Education, IT, and more.
- Salaries vary depending on the sector and experience level.
3. Understanding Saudization
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- Companies must maintain a specific percentage of Saudi employees.
- Expats should adapt and trust in Allah’s provision for new opportunities.
Final Thoughts & Advice
- Thorough Research: Understand job requirements and lifestyle changes before moving.
- Financial Stability: Assess your current financial situation before making the move.
- Trust in Allah: Tawakkul is essential; plan wisely and have faith.
- Appreciate What You Have: Instead of comparing yourself to others, focus on nurturing and valuing your current blessings.
