What’s the most exciting part of one’s career? We bet it is an opportunity to move overseas and get work experience in a foreign country. Out of all the countries in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia is one of the most favored and sought-after destinations for expats. The stable economy, room for growth and development, and refined infrastructure are all contributing factors that make the country appealing to expats.
Moving to a new nation is often thrilling and intimidating for most individuals. Particularly it’s more of an adventure when that nation is as distinctive and culturally diverse as Saudi Arabia. In this blog post, Kingdom International Movers, one of the leading international movers in Saudi Arabia, is sharing a detailed guide of some of the major cities in the kingdom. Regardless of whether you are relocating to Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, or another large city, our comprehensive guide will make the process easier for you. So read this blog post until the end without skipping any part.
Related Read: 5 Biggest Changes in the Last Ten Years: Expat Life In Riyadh.
Step 1
Research About the City
In today’s times, the easy availability of the internet has made even normal things like buying a t-shirt a mini research project. The same is true when it comes to planning for a move. Your first step towards relocation begins with researching different cities in a country. Every major city in the kingdom has its unique features. Kingdom International Movers shares a short description of some of them below:
Riyadh
The capital city, also known as the center of the economy, Riyadh is renowned for its cutting-edge facilities and commercial prospects. In fact, it is one of the most popular cities in the kingdom across the globe.
Jeddah
Opposite Riyadh, Jeddah is a relaxed and chilled seaside city. It is well-known for its Red Sea beachfront and thriving cultural scene. If you want to benefit from the thriving economy of Saudi Arabia yet want to have a laid-back life, then Jeddah is the right place for you. You will find many packers and movers in Saudi Arabia providing services to this wonderful beach city.
Dammam
If your interest in moving to the Middle East is making a fortune in the oil sector, then Dammam is the place for you. It is an important city in the Eastern Province and is globally well-known for its oil sector and closeness to Bahrain.
Mecca and Medina
If you are moving to Saudi Arabia intending to set up a business in the tourism sector or get a job in the industry, then Mecca and Medina are the best cities for you. These two are the biggest Muslim spiritual centers across the globe. Tourists from around the world come here to offer their prayers. The cities have a distinct ambiance fueled by religious tourism.
You can adjust to these cities more quickly if you are aware of the environment, way of life of the locals, and cultural customs of the city.
Do read our blog titled “Basic Guide About International Moves from Saudi Arabia.”
Step 2
Getting a Visa
To have an opportunity to work in Saudi Arabia, you will need to get a proper visa. Once you get a visa, you can then go ahead and hire one of the top moving companies in Saudi Arabia and get ahead with your relocation formalities. Below we share some of the popular visa types:
Work Visa
This is the most popular type of visa for foreigners. This visa is usually sponsored by your employer.
Family Visa
If you already live in the kingdom, then your immediate family members, like your kids, parents, and spouse, can get a family visa to visit you or stay with you.
Investor Visa
An investor visa is a good option for business owners who intend to launch or finance a venture in Saudi Arabia.
Step 3
Finding Accommodation
Finding a house is another crucial aspect of relocation. Many movers and packers in Riyadh and Saudi Arabia, such as Kingdom International Movers, offer assistance to find a home. Saudi Arabia has a range of housing options you can pick from. The options include villas in gated communities and contemporary apartments. Compounds are preferred by many foreigners because of their facilities, sense of community, and loose dress codes.
Important Tip: Before signing a lease, Kingdom International Movers suggests that you look into rental prices about the place where you plan to go and haggle over terms. Be mindful of extra expenses such as utility bills and maintenance fees.
Step 4
Education and Healthcare Facilities
Healthcare
If you are moving with elderly parents or have a medical condition, then you don’t need to be worried about anything. All the major cities in the Kingdom have a robust healthcare system, with both public and private hospitals. Expats often prefer private healthcare for shorter wait times and English-speaking staff. Ensure you have health insurance, often provided by your employer.
Education
For families, finding quality education is a priority. Major cities have international schools offering various curricula, such as American, British, and IB.
Here is a list of a few “Objects That Are Likely To Get Damaged During a Relocation.”
Step 5
Setting Up Utilities
From basic to advanced, utilities are essential. When you hire reliable movers in Riyadh, such as Kingdom International Movers, you get assistance with all these crucial factors.
Crucial Facilities
We suggest before you move, at least a week in advance, to install services like internet, water, and power when you have found a place to live. These services are often included in the leasing agreement for many compounds.
Banking
To ensure smooth financial transactions, open a local bank account. Riyad Bank, NCB, and Al Rajhi Bank are major banks. Proof of address and your Iqama (residency permit) are required.
Step 6
Explore Attractions
Every city has its landmarks and points of interest. All the major cities of Saudi Arabia have one or multiple attractions that both locals as well as expats visit.
Riyadh: Diriyah, Kingdom Center, and Edge of the World.
Jeddah: Red Sea scuba diving, Al-Balad, and King Fahd’s Fountain.
Dammam: King Fahd Park and Half Moon Bay.
When you visit these places, you can enjoy regional food, explore traditional marketplaces (souks), and attend festivals to fully immerse yourself in Saudi culture.
Conclusion
With proper planning, moving to Saudi Arabia can be a fulfilling experience. You may make the most of your new journey in the Kingdom and have a seamless relocation by sticking to these guidelines shared above and by partnering with one of the leading moving companies in Riyadh.