Expat Housing Services in Saudi Arabia

It is illegal under Saudi law for foreigners to purchase or own land, which means they have to rent a villa or an apartment. Housing can be in either the cities or in suburbs, since the desert region is mostly populated by Bedouin. Many construction projects are being funded in Saudi Arabia at this time, so finding accommodation isn't too hard. Native Saudis would rather live in villas with their extended families, but foreign workers tend to rent in distinct compounds or in apartments. The larger compounds for expats usually include a shop, gym, restaurant, swimming pool, tennis court, play area, and a majlis or place for meeting with visitors.

 

Most rental properties won't be furnished, but they could include some kitchen equipment like a fridge, and complementary satellite TV access that includes both CNN and BBC. Rent prices begin at about $750 a month for a cheap one bedroom apartment. A furnished apartment is some 25 percent more expensive, and a serviced apartment that includes the cleaning, linen, and laundry service is around 30 percent higher than an un-serviced apartment. Air conditioning might or might not come in the rent. A longer term rental contract will be for a year, shorter term contracts in months. A foreigner will also need to have his or her employment sponsor sign the rental contract.

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• Renting in Saudi Arabia