My Life in Saudi

Getting your Iqama (residency permit) is one of the most important steps after arriving in Saudi Arabia. Whether you’re an employee or a dependent, this card is your legal identity in the Kingdom — you’ll need it for almost everything, from opening a bank account to signing a mobile contract or renting an apartment. If you’re new to Saudi Arabia and waiting for your Iqama, you might be wondering: Has it been issued yet? In this complete guide, we’ll show you how to check your Iqama issuance status online , what the results mean, and what to do if there’s a delay. 🪪 What Is an Iqama and Why It’s Important The Iqama is a residence permit issued to expatriates living and working in Saudi Arabia. It proves that you’re legally allowed to stay and work in the country under your sponsor (Kafeel) or employer. Without a valid Iqama: You cannot work legally in the Kingdom. You cannot access online government services like Absher or Tawakkalna. You cannot open a bank account ...

 Owning property in Saudi Arabia was once a dream for many expatriates — something out of reach due to strict local laws. However, in recent years, the Kingdom has gradually opened up its real estate sector, making it possible for some foreigners to own or invest in property under specific conditions. In this guide, we’ll explain the rules, eligibility, and process for expats who want to buy property in Saudi Arabia in 2025. 🏡 Can Expats Own Property in Saudi Arabia? Yes, expatriates can own property in Saudi Arabia , but only under certain conditions and with official approval from the relevant authorities. The ownership rules depend on your residency status , location , and type of property . Let’s look at the major categories: 1. For Residents with Iqama (Legal Expats) Expats with a valid Iqama (residency permit) are allowed to own one residential property in Saudi Arabia, provided they meet the following conditions: They live in the Kingdom legally. The propert...

 Owning a car in Saudi Arabia is almost a necessity. Public transportation is improving, but most expats and locals still rely on private vehicles for daily commuting, weekend trips, and desert adventures. Buying a used car can be a smart choice: you avoid steep depreciation on new cars and can often find well-maintained vehicles at competitive prices. This guide walks expats through every step of buying a used car in Saudi Arabia in 2025 —from research and inspection to paperwork and registration—so you can drive away confidently and legally. 1. Understand the Saudi Used Car Market Saudi Arabia has a robust secondhand car market because vehicles generally last longer thanks to dry weather and excellent road conditions. Popular platforms include: Haraj.sa – The biggest Arabic online marketplace. Opensooq and Expatriates.com – Popular among expats for English listings. Showrooms and dealers – Offer certified pre-owned cars with some warranty. Before you start br...