Why You Need a Saudi Arabia Moving Checklist in 2026
Moving to Saudi Arabia is no longer just about oil jobs and short-term contracts. In 2026, the Kingdom is attracting professionals, families, digital specialists, and long-term expats under Vision 2030.
But Saudi Arabia still operates differently from Western and Asian countries.
Missing one document, misunderstanding one rule, or delaying one registration can create serious problems later.
This Moving to Saudi Arabia Checklist (2026) is designed to:
- Prevent costly mistakes
- Help you relocate legally and smoothly
- Save weeks of confusion after arrival
- Prepare individuals and families
This is not theory — it’s built on real expat experiences.
Before You Move to Saudi Arabia (Critical Planning Stage)
Before booking tickets, answer these honestly:
- Are you coming alone or with family?
- Is your job finalized with contract & visa type?
- Is housing provided or self-arranged?
- Is your employer’s company legitimate?
- Is your employer giving you family benefits?
Saudi Arabia does not allow visa switching easily once inside the country.
Key Decision Checklist
✔ Confirm job offer letter
✔ Verify visa category (Work / Family / Business)
✔ Ask employer about family sponsorship
✔ Understand dependents fees
✔ Confirm medical insurance coverage
Saudi Arabia Visa & Legal Checklist (2026 Rules)
Your visa type controls everything — work, banking, driving, family stay.
Common Visa Types
- Work Visa (Most expats)
- Family Residence Visa
- Premium Residency (Golden Visa)
- Business Visit Visa
After entry, your Iqama (Residence Permit) is mandatory.
Your employer processes this through Jawazat.
🔗 Official reference: https://www.my.gov.sa
Document Checklist Before Arrival (Non-Negotiable)
Bring originals + digital copies.
Personal Documents
✔ Passport (valid 12+ months)
✔ Visa stamped passport
✔ Birth certificate (children)
✔ Marriage certificate (attested)
✔ Passport-size photos
Professional Documents
✔ Degree certificates (attested by the University, Saudi Cultural Mission, MOFA, Saudi Embassy)
✔ Experience letters
✔ CV & contract copy
⚠ Attestation Tip:
Saudi Arabia requires embassy, Saudi Culture Mission & MOFA attestation — skipping this delays family visas. Usually this will be handled by the travel agent who has been assigned your visa, who will provide you with the whole country spesific information.
Financial Preparation Checklist (Very Important)
Saudi Arabia is cashless but bank-dependent.
Before arrival:
✔ Inform your home bank
✔ Carry international debit card
✔ Emergency cash (SAR + USD)
✔ Clear home-country liabilities
✔ Make sure to bring the home country SIM with roaming
After arrival:
✔ Open a Saudi bank account
✔ Link salary account
✔ Activate SADAD payments
Banks require:
- Iqama
- Absher account
- Local mobile number
Housing & Accommodation Checklist
Most new expats stay temporarily first.
Options
- Company accommodation
- Hotel apartment
- Expat compound
- Private apartment
⚠ Never pay full rent in advance without seeing the unit.
Rental contracts are registered via Ejar.
Family Relocation & School Planning
If relocating with family:
✔ Family residence visa approved
✔ School research done before arrival
✔ School fees confirmed
✔ Vaccination records prepared
School Types
- International schools (British, Indian, American)
- Private Arabic schools
- Ministry schools (limited expat access)
💡 Waiting lists are long — apply early.
Healthcare & Medical Insurance Checklist
Healthcare is insurance-based.
✔ Employer-provided insurance (check coverage)
✔ Family insurance added
✔ Register hospital network
Medical insurance is mandatory under Council of Cooperative Health Insurance.
After Arrival Checklist (First 30 Days)
Week 1
✔ SIM card & internet
✔ Absher registration
✔ Medical check (Iqama)
Week 2
✔ Bank account
✔ Housing finalization
✔ School admission
Week 3–4
✔ Driving license conversion
✔ Vehicle registration (if applicable)
✔ Local orientation
Cultural & Lifestyle Adjustment Checklist
Saudi Arabia is welcoming — but structured.
✔ Dress modestly
✔ Respect prayer times
✔ Avoid public confrontation
✔ Follow traffic laws strictly
Saudi law is enforced digitally via Absher and government systems.
Common Mistakes Expats Make
- Entering on wrong visa
- Not attesting documents
- Renting without Ejari/Ejar
- Ignoring family dependent fees
- Delaying Absher activation
FAQ: Moving to Saudi Arabia Checklist (2026)
Is Saudi Arabia safe for expats?
Yes. Saudi Arabia is one of the safest countries for expats.
Can I bring my family immediately?
Only after Iqama issuance and salary eligibility.
Is alcohol allowed?
No. Strictly prohibited.
Can women drive in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, legally since 2018.
How long does Iqama take?
Usually 2–4 weeks after arrival.
Is life expensive in Saudi Arabia?
Costs vary by city and lifestyle.
Final Moving to Saudi Arabia Checklist Summary
✔ Correct visa
✔ Attested documents
✔ Financial readiness
✔ Housing plan
✔ Family & schooling prep
✔ Healthcare coverage
✔ Cultural awareness
