Saudi Arabia is home to a thriving and increasingly diverse expatriate community, including a significant number from Western nations. Many are drawn by the Kingdom’s appealing financial benefits, such as tax-free income, and the expanding career prospects, particularly in the healthcare sector. With one of the fastest-growing and most ambitious healthcare systems in the region, the country offers professionals a unique opportunity for career advancement, cultural immersion, and personal development.
Expatriates typically reside in a range of housing options, from modern apartments and villas to secure residential compounds, some of which are conveniently located near hospitals and clinics. These compounds often provide lifestyle-focused amenities, including gyms, swimming pools, grocery stores and communal recreational areas – creating a comfortable, community-oriented environment.
Under the ambitious Vision 2030 initiative, Saudi Arabia has undergone significant social and economic transformations. Reforms have expanded rights and freedoms, particularly for women, who can now drive, travel without a guardian’s permission, and engage fully in professional life. These changes have fostered a more inclusive and progressive environment, while still maintaining the Kingdom’s deep-rooted cultural and religious identity.
Daily life follows a rhythm shaped by prayer times, during which many businesses briefly pause operations. Public attire remains modest in line with local customs: while the traditional abaya is no longer compulsory for women, modest dress is still expected in public settings. Head coverings are optional for expatriate women, except in religious contexts or where specifically required.
Saudi Arabia is widely considered one of the safest countries in the region, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public order. Social life for expatriates is diverse and evolving, with access to cultural festivals, desert adventures, sports clubs, and active international school communities. Social gatherings within expatriate circles are also a key part of daily life.
Expatriates working in the Kingdom should carry their Iqama (residency ID) at all times and take the time to understand local laws and customs. Respect for societal norms, such as modesty in behavior and dress, and avoiding public displays of affection, is essential for a positive experience.
In summary, Saudi Arabia offers healthcare professionals and other expatriates a dynamic and enriching living environment, marked by strong infrastructure, expanding opportunities, and a vibrant cultural landscape that continues to evolve with global engagement and national transformation at its core.
PE Global