محتويات المقال

First 30 Days in Saudi Arabia: A New Expat's Complete Checklist

Moving to Saudi Arabia comes with several practical steps after arrival. For a new expatriate, the first month is a good time to get your mobile number, residency documents, government accounts, address, banking, insurance and housing arrangements in order.

This checklist focuses on the main services and procedures that apply to expatriates in Saudi Arabia. Requirements can vary depending on your visa, employment and family situation.

1. Get a Saudi mobile number

A local mobile number is one of the first practical things to arrange after arriving in Saudi Arabia.

Your mobile number is used with services such as Absher. Absher's registration system requires an ID, Iqama or border number and a mobile number. It also states that the mobile number should be your own and that an incorrect number can cause registration to fail.

If you arrive before your Iqama is issued, the type of SIM and identification required will depend on your status and the telecom provider's current requirements.

2. Complete your Iqama process

For employees, the employer issues the resident identity, or Iqama, electronically through Absher Business.

The official Absher requirements include the worker being inside Saudi Arabia, a valid passport, completion of the required medical examination, registered fingerprints and photographs, and health insurance for the worker and accompanying family members where applicable. Some occupations also require a valid work permit.

Your employer normally handles the issuance process, so follow up with your HR or employer if you are waiting for your Iqama.

3. Register for Absher

After you have the required identification information and mobile number, register for an Absher account.

The official registration page requires an ID, Iqama or border number, mobile number, username and password. Absher also states that the mobile number used for registration should be your private number.

Absher provides access to a range of government services for residents, including services related to residency and traffic.

4. Register your National Address

Saudi Arabia uses the National Address as a standardized address for individuals and establishments.

The official National Platform allows individuals to register their National Address electronically. The process uses the National Single Sign-On, and the service states that activation is ready within 24 hours.

The National Address is also used to identify locations for services such as deliveries and government-related document services.

5. Check your health insurance

If you are covered by Saudi health insurance, check your policy after arrival.

The Insurance Authority's official Health Insurance Information Inquiry service allows residents to check the status and validity of their health insurance and identify the insurance company using their Iqama or Saudi National number. The service is free.

6. Arrange your Saudi bank account

Your banking options depend on your residency and employment status.

For expatriates with a valid Iqama, Saudi Central Bank rules govern the opening and maintenance of bank accounts.

There is also a specific provision for expatriates entering Saudi Arabia on a temporary 90-day work visa. Under stated conditions, an account may be opened at the employer's request to receive salary and other financial entitlements before the Iqama is issued. The account is subject to specific restrictions and must be updated once the Iqama is issued.

Ask your employer and bank which procedure applies to your situation.

7. Keep your employment documents

Keep a copy of your employment contract and important employment information.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development publishes a dedicated Guide to Services Provided for Expatriates covering expatriate rights and government services, including healthcare, education, housing, legal procedures and important assistance numbers.

If you have questions about your employment rights or obligations, use the Ministry's official information rather than relying on informal advice.

8. Arrange your housing

If your employer does not provide accommodation, you may need to arrange a rental property.

Saudi Arabia's Ejar platform is designed to regulate the rental sector and protect the rights of tenants, landlords and real estate brokers.

For residential lease registration, the official process includes the contract details, information about the parties, financial details, terms and conditions, and property information. Both the landlord and tenant are required to have valid identification and a mobile number registered with Absher for the stated service.

Review the rental agreement before completing the contract and keep a copy of the registered lease.

9. Arrange transportation

Transportation depends on where you live and work.

If you plan to drive, check the Saudi driving-license requirements that apply to your situation through the official government channels.

If you do not drive, arrange the transportation option that suits your work and housing location.

Transportation does not need to be finalized on your first day, but having a reliable way to reach work and essential services is important during your first month.

10. If your family is joining you

Family arrangements depend on the family's visa and residency status.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development's expatriate guide covers services and information relating to areas including healthcare, education and housing.

If your spouse or children are accompanying you, check the requirements that apply to each family member rather than assuming that the same process applies to everyone.

Your first 30 days checklist

☐ Get a Saudi mobile number
☐ Complete your Iqama process
☐ Register for Absher
☐ Register your National Address
☐ Check your health insurance
☐ Arrange your Saudi bank account
☐ Keep your employment documents
☐ Arrange housing and review the Ejar contract
☐ Set up reliable transportation
☐ Complete relevant family arrangements

Official sources

شارك هذا المقال

ساعد الآخرين في الوصول إلى هذه المعلومات.