Finding Accommodation in Saudi Arabia: The Complete Expat Guide

Finding an apartment in Saudi Arabia isn’t just about checking an app—it’s an endurance sport.

When I first arrived, I thought I could just browse online and sign a lease. I was wrong. Between deciphering listings on the Aqar app to realizing that "Family Only" signs are strictly enforced, the process was overwhelming.

If you are looking for a place to live, you need to know the unwritten rules. This guide covers the 2025 Riyadh Rent Freeze, the Ejar system, and why you should never rent a top-floor apartment without checking the water pressure first.

1. The "Big News" for 2025: The Riyadh Rent Freeze

Before you start looking, know the law. As of September 2025, the government has implemented strict caps on rent increases in Riyadh.

• Why it matters: Landlords can no longer double your rent overnight.

• Legal Status: To sign a contract, you must have a valid residency. (Check your status using our [Ultimate Guide to Checking Your Iqama Expiry]).

2. Where to Live? (Neighborhood Safety)

Safety is rarely an issue in Saudi Arabia, but convenience is.

• Riyadh: The North (Al Malqa) is trendy but expensive. The East (Al Munsiyah) is affordable.

• Jeddah: Al Salamah is popular for expats. (Worried about safety in specific areas? Read our report: [Is Saudi Arabia Safe? Truth About Crime & Neighborhoods]).

3. The Contract: "Ejar" is Non-Negotiable

Ejar is the government’s mandatory digital rental network.

• No Ejar, No Rights: Never pay a landlord in cash without an Ejar contract.

• Digital Payments: Rent is now paid digitally via the Mada or SADAD systems. You will need a local bank account for this. (Don't have one yet? Compare options in our [Best Banks for Expats in KSA Guide]).

4. The "Empty" Apartment Shock

In Saudi Arabia, "Unfurnished" means empty. No kitchen cabinets, no ACs.

• The Cost: Budget an extra 15,000 SAR for appliances.

• The Move: You will need to hire movers. You can find them on the Haraj app.

Final Verdict

Finding a home takes patience. Don't rush. Download Aqar, check the water pressure, and insist on an Ejar contract. Once you are settled, the real adventure begins.

---

2. Topic #20: Driving License Guide (Rewritten with Links)

Links added: Buying a Car (next step), Iqama (documents), Safety (driving culture).

The Complete Guide to Saudi Driving Licenses (2025): New Expats, Swaps & Women

If there is one topic that confuses every single new expat, it is the Driving License.

I have been through the chaos of the Dallah Driving School, and I have watched the system change. Whether you are swapping a UK license or learning from scratch, here is the truth.

Part 1: The "Golden Ticket" (Direct Swap)

If you have a license from the UK, US, EU, or GCC, you can swap it without a test.

• The Requirement: You must have a valid Iqama. (If your Iqama is not issued yet, read [The Ultimate Guide to Your Saudi Iqama] to see how long it takes).

Part 2: The Process for Beginners (Dallah School)

If you are from India, Philippines, or Pakistan, you likely need to take the Assessment Test.

• The Computer Test: You must answer 18/20 questions correctly.

• The Road Test: Watch out for the "S-Parking." It is where most people fail. (Nervous about driving here? You should be. Read our honest take on [Driving Safety and Road Rage in Saudi Arabia]).

Part 3: Women Driving

Since 2018, women have been driving freely. Schools like Princess Nourah University offer world-class training. The rules are the same, but the waiting lists are longer.

Final Verdict

Getting your license is your ticket to freedom. Once you have that plastic card, you can finally stop taking Ubers and buy your own wheels. (Ready to buy? Check out our guide on [Buying a Used Car in Saudi Arabia without Getting Scammed]).

---

3. Topic #11: Buying a Used Car (Rewritten with Links)

Links added: Driving License (transfer requirement), Banking (payment), Safety (insurance).

Buying a Used Car in Saudi Arabia: The Guide I Wish I Had Before I Got Scammed

Everyone told me that buying a car in Saudi Arabia was easy. "Just go to the Haraj," they said. They were wrong. My first trip to the used car market was a disaster.

If you are looking for wheels, this isn't just a list of rules. This is the reality of navigating Expatriates.com and the Fahas inspection.

Step 1: The Requirements

You cannot just buy a car. You need three things:

1. Valid Iqama.

2. Saudi Driving License. (Don't have one? Read [How to Get a Saudi Driving License] first).

3. Insurance.

Step 2: Where to Look (Haraj vs. Apps)

• Expatriates.com: Cheap, but full of scams. Never pay a deposit online.

• Syarah / Cars24: More expensive, but safer and often come with warranties.

Step 3: The Inspection (Trust No One)

A seller might show you a "Fahas" certificate. Do not trust it. Always take the car for a "Computer Test" at a neutral workshop. It costs 250 SAR but saves you thousands. (Driving a lemon is dangerous. Read about [Car Safety and Road Risks in KSA]).

Step 4: The Transfer and Payment

The transfer happens instantly at the showroom via Absher.

• Payment: You must pay via bank transfer or Mada card. Cash is legally restricted for large amounts. (Need a bank with high transfer limits? Check [Best Banks: Al Rajhi vs. SNB]).

Final Thoughts

Buying a car is stressful, but driving down King Fahd Road with your own AC blasting makes it worth it. Just verify everything, and never transfer money until you see the car.

---

4. Topic #7: Iqama Guide (Rewritten with Links)

Links added: Labor Law (sponsor issues), SIM Cards (linked to ID), Family Visa (eligibility).

The Ultimate Guide to Your Saudi Iqama (2025): Status, Fees & Nitaqat Colors

Your Iqama (Resident ID) is your life. You cannot open a bank account, rent an apartment, or even buy a SIM card without it.

In 2025, the rules have changed with Digital IDs and quarterly renewals. Here is everything you need to know.

1. How to Check Expiry

Don't trust the printed date on your card. Check the Absher app for the real digital expiry.

• Why it matters: If your Iqama expires, your bank account freezes instantly. (Read more about the [Bank Account Freeze Nightmare]).

2. Renewal Fees: Who Pays?

• The Employee: You pay for your dependents (Family Levy).

• The Employer: They must pay the Work Permit fees. (Is your employer refusing to pay? You have rights. Read our [Saudi Labor Law Guide: Resignation and Rights]).

3. Linking Your Mobile

Your Iqama is linked to your phone number. If you lose your SIM, you lose access to Absher. (Check how many numbers are under your ID in our [Guide to Ghost SIM Cards & CST Check]).

4. Benefits of a Valid Iqama

With a valid Iqama, you can:

1. Rent a home via Ejar.

2. Get a Driving License.

3. Apply for a Family Visit Visa. (Want to bring your parents? Read [How to Apply for a Family Visit Visa]).

Final Verdict

Keep your Iqama green, keep it valid, and you will have zero issues living your best life in the Kingdom.

The Complete Guide to Saudi Driving Licenses (2025): For New Expats, Swaps & Women