✅ Expat Relocation Checklist for Saudi Arabia

Your practical, no-nonsense guide to getting settled in the Kingdom

Moving to Saudi Arabia? Whether you're heading to Riyadh, Jeddah or Dhahran, this checklist will help you stay organised, calm, and one step ahead—from paperwork and packing to playgrounds and phone plans.

📄 Before You Go

✔️ Paperwork & Visas

•  Confirm your work or residency visa (Iqama) process

•  Gather all official documents (certified + translated): – Passport (with at least 6 months’ validity) – Marriage & birth certificates – Academic/professional qualifications – Medical checks (as required by your visa sponsor)

  
  

✔️ Employment & Contracts

•  Review your employment contract thoroughly

•  Check what's included in your expat package: – Housing – School fees – Healthcare – Flights/home leave

•  Clarify probation periods, notice periods & end-of-service benefits

  
  

✔️ Schools & Education

•  Research and shortlist international schools (waiting lists can be long)

•  Submit applications early – some require assessments

•  Prepare transcripts and vaccination records

  
  

✔️ Finances

•  Set up a Wise or similar international money transfer account

•  Notify your home bank of your move

•  Budget for upfront expenses (compound deposits, school fees, car, etc.)

  
  

✔️ Cultural Prep

•  Read up on local customs and laws (yes, even the dress code)

•  Learn basic Arabic greetings – it goes a long way

•  Join expat forums or Facebook groups for tips and real talk

  
  

📦 Packing & Shipping

✔️ Shipping Essentials

•  Arrange air and sea freight (label boxes by room/use)

•  Make an itemised list for customs

•  Pack key documents and valuables in your carry-on

  
  

✔️ What to Bring

•  Seasonally appropriate clothes (yes, bring a coat – it gets cold in winter!)

•  Medications with prescriptions

•  Adapters, tech, and SIM-unlocked phones

•  Favourite pantry items or creature comforts (tea, Marmite, oatcakes…)

•  Kid supplies: favourite toys, uniforms, books

  
  

🛬 After Arrival

✔️ Admin To-Do List

•  Activate your Iqama (residency permit)

•  Set up a Saudi bank account (you’ll need your Iqama first)

•  Get a local SIM card (STC, Zain or Mobily)

•  Register on Absher (for digital services like permits and appointments)

  
  

✔️ Housing & Transport

•  Finalise your accommodation (compound or apartment)

•  Set up utilities and internet (your compound may help)

•  Decide whether to buy or lease a car

•  Hire a driver or arrange transport if needed

  
  

✔️ Healthcare

•  Confirm your medical insurance details

•  Register with a clinic or hospital

•  Download health apps if provided by your insurer

  
  

✔️ Family & Lifestyle

•  Explore local play areas, gyms and cafés

•  Book weekend trips to explore your new home

•  Join community groups, hobby clubs or fitness classes

•  Schedule downtime – it’s a big transition!

  
  

📌 Top Tips

• Keep digital copies of every important document

• Expect admin to take longer than you're used to—patience is a virtue

• Don’t compare your experience to Dubai or Doha—it’s different, and that’s okay Downloadable PDF version coming soon!

  
  

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