Moving Services in Saudi Arabia

It isn't normally legally possible to move to Saudi Arabia from a different country permanently, or to become a Saudi citizen, unless maybe by marrying a Saudi. Non Saudis are additionally banned from purchasing or owning property in Saudi Arabia.

 

It is easy for Muslims to enter Saudi Arabia to fulfil their religious Hajj obligations of making a pilgrimage to visit the holy places of Islam in Arabia by getting a special visa for this purpose, which is given to a set number of Muslims from each country every year. All other foreigners also need a visa before entering Saudi Arabia. This requires documentation, and not having any Israeli stamps or visas in one's passport, because these will disqualify entry.

 

Tourist visas are rarely given out as Saudi Arabia is not yet a major tourist destination. Those coming to work in Saudi Arabia need to have sponsorship from a Saudi company that has offered them work to get a residence visa. Visa recipients also have to pass a health exam, which includes a test for HIV. The residence permit must be carried at all times, as the Saudi Arabian government tracks its large immigrant working population.

See our guides

• Moving to Saudi Arabia