Saudi Arabia

Our Local Guide To Your Career in the Kingdom

About Redpath Partners

Redpath Partners is a global recruitment company dedicated to the property and construction sector. Our focused approach and unmatched knowledge of the industry means we are well placed to offer tailored recruitment solutions that yield quick and successful results. By continually immersing ourselves in the industry, we have built an admirable global network of clients and candidates, enabling us to leverage opportunities and provide valuable connections that no one else can.

Our repeat client base is testament to the trusting, long-term partnerships we forge and the outstanding outcomes we deliver, time and time again

Life in Saudi

Saudi Arabia

offers a mix of modern cities like Riyadh and historical sites such as Al-Ula. The country's diverse landscapes range from Red Sea coastlines to desert dunes, suitable for both urban and nature enthusiasts.



Dammam

is on the east coast and is an important commercial centre. It is quieter than Riyadh and Jeddah, and offers good schools, family amenities, and access to beaches, providing a calm living environment. Near Dammam, Khobar has a significant expat community and a relaxed lifestyle. It offers good schools and neighbourhoods.

Riyadh Season

Riyadh Season, a major winter event in Saudi Arabia, offers global cuisines, exciting activities, and highlights Saudi heritage across 12 themed zones like Boulevard City, Kingdom Arena, and Riyadh Zoo. Key attractions include ROSHN Front with retail and entertainment spaces, and King Abdullah Financial District, a hub of modern architecture. Boulevard World in Hittin is a premier entertainment zone.

For more details, visit Riyadh Season to find out more.

JEDDAH SEASON

Jeddah Season is a cultural festival in Saudi Arabia, featuring international and local performances, culinary delights, art exhibits, and sports activities. It highlights Jeddah's heritage and modern attractions, appealing to residents and tourists. Key locations include Jeddah Corniche with scenic Red Sea views, Red Sea Mall with over 600 fashion stores, and King Fahd’s Fountain, a landmark in the Red Sea.

For more information, visit Jeddah Season

Sports & Events

Saudi Arabia's investment in sports, especially the Saudi Pro League with 16 teams, has enhanced its global profile. Jeddah hosts major events like the Formula One Grand Prix and top boxing matches. The MDLBEAST Soundstorm festival attracts over 100 international DJs and musicians, showcasing the country's vibrant music scene.

Saudi Arabia offers many other large-scale entertainment events, learn more about them here.

Nature Activities

Adventurers can hike Mount Qara or enjoy a 4x4 desert safari with dinner under the stars. Animal lovers will appreciate the horseback safari at Nofa Wildlife Park or the Bird Center. Water enthusiasts can take a scuba diving course, while culture seekers can explore Al Jahel Museum.

For unique views, try a cable car ride or have a picnic at Nofa.

Shopping & culture at local markets

For a taste of local life, visit the souqs, traditional markets that are bustling with activity. Here, you can shop for a variety of items such as spices, textiles, handmade crafts, and jewellery.

Walking through a souq is an immersive experience, giving you a glimpse into the vibrant culture and daily life of the locals.

Exploring history and culture

Saudi Arabia has a rich tapestry of history and culture, much of which is preserved in its museums and cultural centres. These institutions are not just about history; they offer interactive and engaging experiences that bring the Saudi heritage to life.

Whether you're interested in ancient civilizations, Islamic art, or the nation's journey to modernization, there's a museum that caters to your interests.

Shopping malls

Malls in Saudi Arabia are central to social life, offering much more than just shopping. They are complete entertainment hubs with a wide selection of dining options, movie theatres, and indoor play areas for children.

Visiting a mall is a popular way to spend time, providing a comfortable and convenient setting for family outings and social gatherings.

Food and Beverage

Saudi Arabia is becoming a prime market for international food and beverage operators, driven by Vision 2030. Renowned brands like Hakkasan and Nobu are attracted by favourable business reforms and a growing consumer market.

Riyadh and Jeddah are emerging as culinary hubs, catering to sophisticated tastes and highlighting the Kingdom's transformation into a key destination for luxury dining and lifestyle experiences.

Find the best food and beverage spots in Riyadh and Jeddah.

Clothing and Climate

The country observes conservative dress norms; women are encouraged to dress modestly, which doesn't necessarily mean wearing traditional attire like abayas or hijabs but does involve covering shoulders and knees.

Men are expected to wear long trousers and shirts that cover their shoulders, in line with the respect for local customs and Islamic traditions.

Saudi Arabia's climate varies: cool spring nights and rainfall (15- 20°C), hot summers (~45°C), mild autumns, and cool winters with possible northern snowfall.

Pack for varied temperatures and activities.

EDUCATION IN SAUDI ARABIA

For families with children, Saudi Arabia offers a wide range of international schools, featuring American, British, and other international curriculums, ensuring a seamless educational transition. These schools provide high-quality education, modern facilities, experienced international faculty, and extracurricular activities for holistic development.

Many employers, including government and private sectors, offer school fee contributions as part of their packages. For a comprehensive breakdown of school fees by school, the website Ed Arabia is a useful resource, helping expatriate families make informed decisions about their children’s education.

The presence of diverse educational institutions ensures that the needs of the expatriate community are met, allowing children to thrive in a multicultural environment.

Below are a selection of compounds available to expatriates.

Al Nakhla

Family and Children's Facilities: Spacious apartments/villas, pet-friendly area, pools, in-house cinema, VR gaming, professional childcare.

Sports and Fitness: Running/cycling track, gyms, yoga, semi-Olympic lap pool, martial arts, squash, golf, 23 shaded pools.

Dining: Majdool Restaurant, Chill & Grill, Starbucks, PIATTO Gelato.

More information on Al Nakhla Residential Resort

antara

Community Heart: Fitness and wellness center, restaurant, poolside café,
interconnected pools.

Location: Peaceful suburbs, near schools, malls, business district, and airport.

Landscapes: Private gardens, parks, tree-lined walkways.

Amenities: Central courtyard, supermarket, Montessori pre-school, sports
facilities.

More information on Antara

Wadi Qortuba

Accommodation: 375 villas, 230 apartments.

Recreation: 10 swimming pools, 70% green/open spaces.

The Wadi: Water-filled park, 4 km walking trail.

Services: 24/7 security, property management, on-site convenience store and schools.

Education: American K-12 curriculum at Modern Global International Schools.

Retail and Religious: Retail strip, mosque complex, shaded plaza.

More information on Wadi Qortuba

ARIZONA GOLF RESORT

Accommodation: Standard/premium villas, condos.

Recreation: Two pools, gym, baseball field, playgrounds,
basketball/tennis/squash courts, game areas.

Golf: Nine-hole course, driving range, Pro Shop with PGA professionals.

Community Services: Saunas, supermarket, dry cleaning, beauty salon.

More information on Arizona Golf Resort

Working in Saudi

Work Visa

To work in Saudi, you must have a work visa. The process involves:
Employer Sponsorship: Your employer in Saudi Arabia must secure a work permit (Iqama) on your behalf.
Application Process: After obtaining the work permit, you apply for the work visa at a Saudi embassy or consulate in your country. Requirements include a valid passport, employer's letter, employment contract, degree certifications, medical and police reports, and a digital power of attorney from the Saudi employer. Your employer’s onboarding team will assist you throughout the application process.

Find more information on working visas here.

Tourist Visa

For short-term tourism (does not permit employment), the Saudi tourist visa is typically a multiple-entry visa valid for 1 year, allowing a 90-day stay per visit. In some cases, single- entry visas valid for 90 days, permitting a 30-day stay, are issued. Tourist visas apply to Umrah (except during Hajj season) and are not extendable.

Find more information on tourist visas here.

Other Visas

For more information on visa types click here.

Working in Saudi

Labour Law

Working Hours: 48 hours/week (8 hours/day), reduced to 36 hours during Ramadan. Overtime is paid extra.

Leave: Minimum 30 calendar days annual leave and sick leave.

Contracts: Fixed-term for foreign employees; unlimited-term for Saudis.

Duties: Maintain confidentiality; employers provide health insurance and safety.

Termination: Requires valid reason and 60 days' notice; invalid termination may lead to compensation.

End-of-service benefits: Lump sum based on salary and service duration.

Garden Leave: Allowed during notice period if in the contract.

The Cost of Living in
Saudi Arabia

The cost of living in Saudi Arabia is generally on par with other destinations in the Middle East, though this varies greatly between cities.  

Fortunately, many expats move to the Kingdom on attractive relocation packages with allowances for medical insurance and their children’s education. Expats who receive cost of living assistance through their employers, usually find living expenses reasonable.

Learn more about the cost of living here.

Income Tax

One of the major financial advantages of living and working in Saudi Arabia is the absence of income tax. This tax-free environment allows residents to retain their entire earnings, significantly boosting their disposable income and savings potential. For expats, this means a higher net income compared to many other countries.

Value Added Tax (VAT): A 15% VAT applies to most goods and services.

Zakat: This is a religious levy for Muslims, not a tax, set at 2.5% on certain assets and savings.

Housing Costs

Expats in Saudi Arabia often choose gated communities with amenities, though they are pricier, ranging from USD 20,000 to over USD 100,000 annually depending on the size and location of property required. Some employers may be able to assist new joiners with a portion of initial rental costs through one-time relocation allowances. This is often dependent on the location a new employee is relocating from.

Experienced expats prefer cheaper accommodations near offices. City development has made gated communities less essential. The King Abdullah Financial District is popular for professionals.

Prices vary by city, with Riyadh being the most expensive. Other cities can be up to 70% cheaper. Remote Giga Projects cover food and accommodation. There are companies locally that offer relocation services.

Learn more about housing costs here.

Additional Costs

Food and Groceries: Prices similar to Europe, with imported items costing more.

Transport: Cheaper petrol, improving public transport.

Utilities: Monthly utilities bills can be high over the summer. Mobile phone packages can be higher compared to other markets. Some employers will offer a mobile allowance for employees.

Healthcare: Private insurance needed. Public hospitals may have long waits.

Childcare and Education: Private school fees in Saudi Arabia can range from SAR 11,000 to SAR 103,509 per year, depending on curriculum and operator franchise, with costs generally increasing as children progress to higher year levels.

Our Team

Meet the team members carrying out our values everyday, at each of our global offices.

Charlie Parish
MANAGING PARTNER
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Ben Hurst
Director
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Nathan minnighan
Director
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STEVE GLITZ
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR
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Edward Davey
Associate Director
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Stefan Moylan-Clifford
PRINCIPAL CONSULTANT
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Cameron Fairweather
Principal Consultant
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Jack Kirby
Senior Consultant
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Lauren Cartmell
Consultant
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Andrius Lucauskas
CONSULTANT
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Ellie Farrell
Consultant
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Sarah Langston
Consultant
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April Sampang
SENIOR EXECUTIVE RESOURCER
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Laura Forde
Operations manager
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