My Life in Saudi

 For expats and residents living in Saudi Arabia, paying bills and government fees used to be time‑consuming. Whether it was settling electricity bills, renewing an iqama, or paying traffic fines, people had to queue at offices or banks. Today, however, the SADAD Payment System has changed that. SADAD is one of the most important financial services in the Kingdom, making it easy to pay bills securely and instantly through your bank’s online services, mobile apps, or ATMs. In this detailed guide, we’ll explain what SADAD is, why it matters, and how to use it effectively as an expat in Saudi Arabia. 📌 What is SADAD? SADAD stands for the Saudi Arabian Electronic Bill Presentment and Payment System . It was launched by the Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority (SAMA) to create a single platform that connects banks with billers, government agencies, and service providers. In simple terms, SADAD is like a digital bridge between: Your bank account , and The company or government...

 If you’re an expat living and working in Saudi Arabia, you've probably heard of GOSI — but what is it exactly, and how does it affect you? Whether you're new to the Kingdom or have been here for years, understanding GOSI (General Organization for Social Insurance) is essential. While it primarily benefits Saudi nationals, it also applies in part to expatriate workers, especially in the event of workplace accidents. This guide covers what GOSI is, why it matters, how it affects your employment, and how to check your registration and benefits online. 📌 What is GOSI? GOSI stands for the General Organization for Social Insurance . It’s a Saudi government agency that manages social insurance programs for both Saudis and non-Saudis working in the public and private sectors. GOSI was established to ensure that employees are financially protected in certain situations like: Old age (pensions) Work-related injuries or disabilities Death (for Saudi workers) Unemplo...

Getting a Driver’s License for Men and Women in Saudi Arabia (2025 Guide) Meta Description: Learn how to get a Saudi driving license as an expat man or woman. Step-by-step guide for new drivers, license exchange, required documents, and tips. Labels: Driving in Saudi Arabia, Expat Life Saudi Arabia, Women in Saudi Arabia, Transportation KSA, Legal Documents Saudi Arabia Who Needs a Saudi Driving License? All residents (men and women) who plan to drive in Saudi Arabia legally must have a valid Saudi driving license . International driving permits are only valid for short-term visitors. Expats with an Iqama are required to obtain a local license. For Men: How to Apply for a Driving License If you're an expat man living in Saudi Arabia and don't have a valid license from your home country, follow these steps: Create an Absher Account: Visit Absher.sa and create an account to manage your appointments. Medical Test: Complete the eye and blood tests at an appro...

Best Mobile and Internet Plans for Expats in Saudi Arabia (2025 Guide) Whether you're new to Saudi Arabia or have been here for a while, staying connected is essential. From communicating with family back home to accessing mobile banking, work emails, and entertainment, a reliable mobile and internet connection is a must. This guide covers everything expats need to know about mobile and internet services in the Kingdom. We’ll compare the major providers, help you choose between prepaid and postpaid plans, and offer tips to save money while getting the best value. --- 📶 Major Telecom Providers in Saudi Arabia There are three major telecom companies offering mobile and internet services: STC (Saudi Telecom Company): The largest and most reliable provider, with excellent coverage even in remote areas. Mobily: Known for competitive pricing and fast internet speeds. Zain: Popular among expats for its affordable prepaid and unlimited data options. Each provider...