Saudi Arabia is one of the most dynamic locations in the world today. Thanks to elements like Vision 2030 driving investment in key sectors and massive developments in infrastructure, it is a go-to destination for internationally focused individuals looking for the right home for their family. Overall, the Kingdom is making huge strides to attract and support international talent, investment and expertise, so that it can help people from all over the world start a new chapter in one of the world’s most rapidly changing economies. For anyone weighing up relocating to Saudi Arabia, or wondering what moving to Saudi Arabia with a family really involves, there are a few important things to know before you get started.
Life in Saudi Arabia for Expat Families
One of the most appealing aspects of family life in Saudi Arabia is the quality of life incoming residents can expect. Typically expats in Saudi Arabia will find themselves creating lifestyles that can far exceed their expectations, especially in terms of housing, schooling and leisure. In Saudi Arabia, families can expect to find high quality international education, beautiful accommodation options, inclusive communities, exquisite dining, astonishing heritage, engaging art and world-class entertainment. In addition to the bustling cosmopolitan Riyadh and the coastal beauty of Jeddah, the landscape of Saudi itself is varied and impressive, from the luxury resorts of Al Ula to the historical sites of Diriyah, the cool mountain tops of Aseer to the rose farms of Taif, there is always somewhere new to explore. There are also endless ways to spend your off time, from festivals and grand shopping malls to major international sporting events and authentic foodie spots, not to mention the galleries, museums and adrenaline junkie adventures.
Before the Move: Preparing to Relocate to Saudi Arabia
A huge factor into the success of any family relocation to Saudi Arabia is the preparation you do beforehand. Whether you are moving to start a new business or you’ve been offered an amazing role, the more you know will determine how smoothly you can get settled and how much you and your family can get out of the incredible landscape of Saudi Arabia. First off you need to understand what to expect about the lifestyle of the Kingdom and the specific location you are looking to move to. Will your family prefer compound living in Saudi Arabia? Which international schools in Saudi Arabia would best suit your children? What curriculum would be most effective for their educational goals? Can you find the right home that is convenient for work, school and your favourite activities? Do your family have hobbies or beloved treats they can access easily in the new destination? What are your dealbreakers and how will you need to adapt? Working with a trusted relocation partner in Saudi Arabia to answer these questions will go a long way towards helping you all settle in and feel at home. At EER Middle East we often work with assignees relocating to Saudi Arabia on planning preview trips and area orientations, which will typically help you explore many of these elements first hand.
How EER Middle East Supports Families Moving to Saudi Arabia
Our dedicated team in Saudi Arabia, including our expert Country Manager Lizzie Daniell, have decades of experience of living and working in the Kingdom, so they are the ideal resource to lean on when you are relocating to Saudi Arabia with your family. In addition to the work we can do with you before you arrive, we also have an extensive list of relocation services in Saudi Arabia to get assignees and their families settled in, including the family residence visa and iqama process (the official Saudi residency permit) right up to our departure services as well. From finding the right schools, negotiating the lease on your dream home to sponsorship visas, health insurance and opening bank accounts, we make sure you have everything you need. We can even help with pet relocation, hiring domestic staff and shipping your household goods.
But, as anyone who has relocated to a new place will know, successfully settling in as a family is as much about the intangible as it is the tangible administrative features. When everyone feels knowledgeable about what to expect and comfortable with their lifestyle compatibility, things are far more likely to go smoothly. That is why we spend an extensive period on orientation tours, covering everything from communities to where to grab the best coffee, and why our bespoke cultural awareness training is so valuable. We can work with the assignee and their family on business etiquette and social customs, so everyone feels ready to embrace the exciting new environment with its unique culture and traditions.
Saudi Arabia is truly a land of possibilities and it is fast becoming one of the most in-demand destinations for family relocation. From ground-breaking innovations to record-setting mega projects, the opportunities are almost limitless, so there is no better time for those who want to explore just how different life could be when you move to Saudi Arabia. Could it be the right place for you and your family?
If you are interested in finding out more about relocating to Saudi Arabia and any of the relocation, immigration and corporate services we provide in Saudi Arabia, please get in touch today.
