Saudi Arabia is a different experience than living anywhere else! KSA is the Middle East’s largest country and boasts a unique culture diversity and beauty that no other country can match. Saudi Arabia has a rich history that spans over 4,000 years. This makes it a great place to explore Arabic culture and heritage ๐ธ๐ฆ ๏ธ โฆ
If you are thinking of moving to Saudi Arabia, here are some helpful hints on living here:
1 ๐ธ๐ฆ ๐ค ๐. Obtain the proper visa:
First and foremost you must obtain the proper entry visa before you can legally live and work in Saudi Arabia ๐ธ๐ฆ. Depending on your nationality you may need to apply for a traditional visa or an online e-visa ๏ธ ๐. A list of eligible countries and the respective procedures for obtaining a visa can be found at the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs website ๐ธ๐ฆ ๏ธ ๐. Additionally you may need to present certain documents for instance, a no-objection letter from your sponsoring organization an invitation letter, and a police report at the time of visa application ๏ธ ๐ฎ.
2 . Comply with local customs:
Once you have obtained a visa and entered the country it is important to keep in mind that Saudi Arabia follows a conservative Islamic culture ๐ธ๐ฆ ๏ธ. It is wise to respect local customs and culture as dress codes and body language ๐ ๐. Women in particular should cover their body from head to toe when in public places; whereas all citizens should avoid public displays of affection and avoid speaking ill of the Saudi Royal Family ๐ธ๐ฆ ๐ช ๐ฉ.
3 . Get a residency permit:
To legally stay in Saudi Arabia you must obtain a residency permit ๐ธ๐ฆ ๏ธ. This permit can be obtained through your sponsoring organization and is valid for a certain period of time, depending on your specific needs ๏ธ ๐. The permit is an important document for foreign nationals as it will allow you to rent property and receive healthcare services in the Kingdom .
4 . Learn Arabic:
Saudi Arabia’s official language is Arabic so it is highly encouraged for all expats to learn this language ๐ธ๐ฆ. Not only will speaking Arabic help you navigate day-to-day life in Saudi Arabia more comfortably, but it can also make your stay much more enjoyable ๐ธ๐ฆ. There are numerous language schools and online courses available that can assist with language acquisition ๐ซ.
5 . Enroll in Saudi healthcare:
If you plan to reside in Saudi Arabia for above six months you are required to enroll in the Saudi health insurance scheme ๐ธ๐ฆ 6๏ธโฃ. This scheme will give you access to healthcare services at all government-approved medical facilities in the Kingdom . Additionally your visit to public health centers and hospitals will be free of charge if you have valid insurance ๐ฅ ๐.
6 . Find suitable accommodation:
Another important concern for expats living in Saudi Arabia is finding suitable accommodation ๐ธ๐ฆ. The countryโs main cities as Riyadh and Jeddah offer a plenty of options for expats to rent depending on your budget and needs. There are also serviced apartments available in some parts of the country which may be more expensive but provide more amenities ๐ก.
7 . Open a bank account:
Finally it is advisable to open a local bank account to make your stay in the country simpler ๏ธ ๐ฆ. Most banks in the country offer good banking services and are very well regulated so you should be able to find a bank that suits your financial needs ๏ธ ๐ฆ. Additionally, having a local bank account will make things like transferring funds and paying bills a lot easier ๏ธ ๐ฆ.
It can be rewarding to live in Saudi Arabia ๐ธ๐ฆ. These tips will make your experience in Saudi Arabia a positive one ๐ธ๐ฆ ๏ธ 1๏ธโฃ. You will easily transition to life in the Kingdom by learning the language and respecting its culture and traditions .
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