Digital Nomad Life in Saudi Arabia

"There were many expatriate clubs before the 2004 security incident which caused most westerners to leave. Everything from knitting and drama to golf and scuba diving. They all vanished, but are just startign to come back due to the huge influx of westerners to Yanbu because of the gigantic industrial expansion. There are only two western expatriate compounds - Arabian Homes and The Cove. If you live on either, there are many social activities," remarked one member in Yanbu.

"Yanbu is an industrial 'new city', but it is very clean and tidy, unlike most Saudi towns. The western housing area of the Royal Commission is very like parts of America. Most westerners in Yanbu are there to work - but it's a great place to socialise and great for things like scuba diving, sailing, dune-buggies etc," said one expat who made the move to Yanbu.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Saudi Arabia can be quite an adjustment, as the conservative culture and adherence to Islamic traditions can be unfamiliar for newcomers. Expats find there is a wide range of activities to do, from outdoor pursuits like hiking and bungee jumping in the Red Sea to cultural activities such as the Al-Ula festival. Expats and digital nomads will find that access to the internet and strong communication networks in the country make it an ideal destination to continue working. While there are restrictions on dress and religious activity, Saudis generally welcome expats and are friendly and hospitable. The cost of living in Saudi Arabia is much lower than in other more popular expat destinations, making it an attractive destination for a more affordable living option," explained one foreigner living in Saudi Arabia.

"People lives are surrounded by their families and GrandParents which means much socialising," said one in Jeddah.

"My husband chose this place because it is close to his office, and the house is large enough to accomodate us," remarked one member in Riyadh.

"Finding an appropriate place to live in Saudi Arabia can be a daunting task. Depending on your budget and the area you are looking to live in, there are a variety of ways to find the best place for you. Consider browsing online real estate portals such as Tamleek.sa or Ekar.sa, which feature a variety of housing options for rent or for sale within certain cities and towns. Another option is to contact a local real estate agency, which can help you find suitable properties in and around the city of your choice. You may also consider joining expat and local social media groups in the city that you plan to live in, to help you get advice and tips on finding the right place. Lastly, leveraging the power of social networks in finding a suitable home is also beneficial, as you can be connected with people who have recently moved to the city and can provide helpful insights," explained one expat living in Saudi Arabia.

"Expats considering retiring in Saudi Arabia should be aware of the religious and cultural practices in the country, such as Islamic laws and customs including restrictions on certain activities, for example drinking alcohol is strictly prohibited. Expats should also familiarize themselves with the local language, Arabic, as it is the official language, although many also speak English. When living in Saudi Arabia, it is important to be aware of the rules regarding gender segregation and dress code, as these are strictly enforced. Expats should also be aware that they will require a valid residency permit, obtained through employment or sponsorship, to stay in the country over a longer period. Lastly, retirees should take into consideration the cost of living and availability of medical care, as these can vary depending on the region," said one person in Saudi Arabia.

"You will have great fun. Just make sure you get housed on Arabian Homes or The Cove. Arabian Homes is an open compound, a bit out in the sticks (17Km from Royal COmmission) and is a mature compound i.e. a bit faded. The Cove is westerners only, in the Royal Commission and is brand-new. But it's very popular and not easy to get into. May be a waiting list," said one expat who made the move to Yanbu.

"I loved the fact that these people had a lot of time for me, if I liked something they would give it to me and I was often treated like royalty a lot too as I was the only woman who worked amongst the men. I was treated with a lot of respect and also I found that these people were great hosts. The owner of my apartment building and I became good friends and he would often get his manservant to bring me up a plate of every dish he would serve down in his Ramadan tent over Ramadan just so I didn't miss out as I could not enter his enter tent because it was a male only event. But like a good host, I was given a lot of respect by the males in the Kingdom and I will never forget that. It was their kindness and appreciation for me as a westerner that made them do this and I was rather sad when I left because of this," said one person in Al Khobar.

"Probably that it's so totally opposite what I knew and was used to, so I learn something new everyday. I know I've grown a lot since being here, in many ways," said one expat who made the move to Riyadh.

"Expats in Saudi Arabia appreciate the hospitality, respect, and generosity of the local culture. They also value the country's rich history of art, architecture and literature, as well as its commitment to religious observance and traditions. Additionally, Saudis are known for their strong sense of family and community and expats appreciate the importance they place on relationships and gathering together. They also appreciate the diverse and vibrant cuisine that is enjoyed in the country," explained one foreigner living in Saudi Arabia.

"Living expenses are fairly low here and varieties are available, shopping is real fun," said one in Riyadh.

"Many expats in Saudi Arabia find the local culture very different from their own and may struggle with cultural expectations. One of the biggest challenges for expats is the stringent gender segregation in Saudi society, including being segregated from the opposite sex when in public. Additionally, the conservative dress code can be difficult to get used to, as women are expected to wear a ‘hijab’ or veil which covers all of the hair and body except for the hands and face. Finally, conservative religious values and laws are a large part of Saudi culture, with rules specific to religious holidays, modest behaviour and restrictions on alcohol consumption," explained one expat living in Saudi Arabia.

"Abnormal (lack of) male/female interaction that led to a huge number of homosexual advances being made by the obviously sexually frustrated men," said one person in Dammam.

"If you plan to stay in Saudi Arabia for a while, you will need a valid passport, a Saudi Arabian visa, and a residency form. Depending on the length of your stay, you may also need to take a medical examination and obtain a residence permit. Additionally, you might have to apply for a work permit if you plan to take up employment in Saudi Arabia," said one expat in Saudi Arabia.

"Yes, my first day there I urinated in the urinal only to find that was where men sat to wash their feet," said one expat who made the move to Dammam.

"In Saudi Arabia, it is important to remember to dress conservatively, obey local laws and customs, and to always defer to the wishes and decisions of the local host. Greeting should be done in a respectful and formal manner, with a shake of the hand for men and a small nod of the head for women. Refrain from physical contact with members of the opposite sex and avoid making any negative remarks about the Saudi Arabian government or Saudi customs. Additionally, eating, drinking, and smoking should only be done in private, and family relationships should be respected at all times," explained one foreigner living in Saudi Arabia.

"If you need medical care, go back to the US or to Europe, if you can afford it. Both medical and dental care are substandard. If you can find doctors trained in the US, that is no assurance that they are qualified. The licensing program and qualifications are sketchy, at best," explained one expat living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

"Healthcare services in Saudi Arabia are provided by both public and private sectors. The public healthcare system is managed by the Ministry of Health and is funded by the government. It provides free or low-cost healthcare services to citizens and foreign residents. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with modern facilities and well-trained staff. Foreign residents have access to the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Saudi Arabia can use the public healthcare system by registering with the Ministry of Health and obtaining a health card. They may also be able to access private healthcare services, depending on their visa status," said one digital nomad in Saudi Arabia.

"I've been living in Saudi Arabia for 4 years now, in overall is very good experience, my husband and I work for Interval Plus Crossfit, the company is very responsable, we got a very good offer including housing, transportation, health insurance... Saudi people is super welcoming, they will take care of you when you come here. We had the change to make some road trips and the roads are in very good conditions, many new heritage places to discover. I will recommend to anybody to come here to enjoy and embrace the culture," explained one digital nomad living in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

"Expats and digital nomads living in Saudi Arabia appreciate the country's rich culture and history, as well as its modern infrastructure and amenities. They also enjoy the low cost of living, as well as the fact that the country is a tax-free zone. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the country's strict laws and regulations, as well as its conservative culture, to be restrictive. Additionally, the lack of nightlife and entertainment options can be a downside for some," said one member in Saudi Arabia.