Your First 90 Days in Saudi Arabia

1. Week 1

   Get connected and get legal

   • Buy and register a SIM (stc, Mobily or Zain)

     Take your passport and border number to the airport kiosk. Move it to your Iqama later.

   • Register your National Address

     Done through Saudi Post (SPL) online. Banks and government services ask for it.

   • Activate Absher

     Register online, then confirm at a self-service kiosk with your fingerprint once your Iqama is issued. Full guide

2. Month 1

   Become a resident

   • Collect your Iqama from your employer

     Your employer issues it after your medical and biometrics, normally within 90 days of arrival. Full guide

   • Set up Nafath

     Install it and link it to your Absher login. Banks and Ejar use it to approve you.

   • Open a bank account (Al Rajhi, SNB or Riyad Bank)

     Most banks allow this in the app using your Iqama. Your salary then lands here. Full guide

   • Convert your foreign driving licence

     Check whether your country qualifies for direct exchange, then book through Absher. Full guide

   • Confirm your health insurance is active

     Ask HR for your policy card and the approved hospital network. Full guide

3. Months 2 to 3

   Set up your home and family

   • Choose a compound or an apartment

     Compounds can cost two to three times as much, but they include community and security. Full guide

   • Register your lease on Ejar

     Without a registered Ejar contract, your lease has little protection. Full guide

   • Move electricity into your name (SEC)

     Link the meter to your contract through the SEC app or website.

   • Apply to international schools

     Popular schools run waiting lists, so apply as soon as your move is confirmed. Full guide

   • Bring your family and register dependants

     Budget for the dependant fee of SAR 400 per person per month. Full guide

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Guides in this section

• Iqama, Absher and visas From work visa to Iqama, Absher and exit-re-entry.
• Housing, compounds and Ejar Where to live, compounds or flats, and registering a lease.
• Banking and money Opening an account, mada cards and sending money home.
• Driving licence Converting a foreign licence, and when you need a test.
• Healthcare and insurance Employer insurance, Sehhaty and emergency numbers.
• International schools Curricula, fees, waiting lists and when to apply.