Important Updates
Important Updates
October 22, 2025 | SwedenSweden: New EU Blue Card Rules Forthcoming
October 22, 2025 | ChinaChina: Updated Online Visa Application System for U.S. Applicants Launched
October 22, 2025 | United KingdomFinancial Times: Scientists Charged Too Much to Come to Work in UK, Says Royal Society
October 22, 2025 | HungaryHungary: Change of Residence Permit Practice Relaxed
October 22, 2025 | 🌐Minimum Salary Changes Announced
October 22, 2025 | SwedenSweden: New EU Blue Card Rules Forthcoming
October 22, 2025 | ChinaChina: Updated Online Visa Application System for U.S. Applicants Launched
October 22, 2025 | United KingdomFinancial Times: Scientists Charged Too Much to Come to Work in UK, Says Royal Society
October 22, 2025 | HungaryHungary: Change of Residence Permit Practice Relaxed
October 22, 2025 | 🌐Minimum Salary Changes Announced
October 22, 2025 | SwedenSweden: New EU Blue Card Rules Forthcoming
Subscribe
Fragomen.com home
Select Language
  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German

Select Language

  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German
ContactCareersMediaClient Portal
Search Fragomen.com
  • Our Services
    For EmployersFor IndividualsBy IndustryCase Studies
  • Our Tech & Innovation
  • Our People
  • Our Insights
    Worldwide Immigration Trends ReportsMagellan SeriesImmigration AlertsEventsMedia MentionsFragomen NewsBlogsPodcasts & Videos
  • Spotlights
    Navigating Immigration Under the Second Trump AdministrationFragomen Consulting EuropeImmigration Matters: Your U.S. Compliance RoadmapCenter for Strategy and Applied InsightsVietnamese ImmigrationView More
  • About Us
    About FragomenOfficesResponsible Business PracticesFirm GovernanceRecognition

Our Services

  • For Employers
  • For Individuals
  • By Industry
  • Case Studies

Our Tech & Innovation

  • Our Approach

Our People

  • Overview / Directory

Our Insights

  • Worldwide Immigration Trends Reports
  • Magellan Series
  • Immigration Alerts
  • Events
  • Media Mentions
  • Fragomen News
  • Blogs
  • Podcasts & Videos

Spotlights

  • Navigating Immigration Under the Second Trump Administration
  • Fragomen Consulting Europe
  • Immigration Matters: Your U.S. Compliance Roadmap
  • Center for Strategy and Applied Insights
  • Vietnamese Immigration
  • View More

About Us

  • About Fragomen
  • Offices
  • Responsible Business Practices
  • Firm Governance
  • Recognition
Select Language
  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German

Select Language

  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German
ContactCareersMediaClient Portal
  • Insights

Understanding the Saudi Real Estate Market: What Expats Need to Know

July 2, 2025

Understanding the Saudi Real Estate Market: What Expats Need to Know

Country / Territory

  • Saudi ArabiaSaudi Arabia

Related contacts

Photo of Ali Sikandar

Ali Sikandar

Destination Services Manager

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Email

[email protected]

T:+966 53 426 0193

Related offices

  • Riyadh

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Photo of Ali Sikandar

Ali Sikandar

Destination Services Manager

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Email

[email protected]

T:+966 53 426 0193

Related offices

  • Riyadh

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Photo of Ali Sikandar

Ali Sikandar

Destination Services Manager

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Email

[email protected]

T:+966 53 426 0193

Related offices

  • Riyadh

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

By: Ali Sikandar

Relocating to Saudi Arabia comes with exciting opportunities, but navigating the local real estate market can be one of the most complex and overwhelming parts of the journey. Whether supporting relocating employees or preparing for an international move, understanding the rental landscape is key to a smooth transition.

This blog outlines the key elements of the Saudi housing market, highlights common challenges and explains how Fragomen’s destination services can provide essential support throughout the process. 

Where Do Expats Typically Live in Saudi Arabia?

Riyadh: The Heart of Government and Business

      • Popular expat areas include Al Nakheel, Al Malga, Al Olaya, Diplomatic Quarter and Al Narjis.
      • Housing types range from residential compounds to standalone villas/apartments.
      • Annual rent ranges from SAR 80,000 to SAR 500,000 annually depending on location and property type.

Jeddah: Coastal City with a Relaxed Lifestyle

      • Popular residential districts include Al Shati, Rawdah and Andalus.
      • Known for proximity to the Red Sea and easier access to international schools.

Dammam/Khobar/Dhahran (Eastern Province): The Oil Hub

      • Preferred by expats working in energy and petrochemical industries.
      • Popular compounds in Khobar include Dana, Nada, Dhahran Tower and Euro Village.

Compound Living vs. Open Market: What is the Difference?

Feature

Compounds

Open Market Apartments/Villas

Privacy & Amenities

High (swimming pool, gym, community)

Varies; often limited

Social Environment

Expat-centric, family-friendly

More local or mixed

Cost

Premium pricing

More affordable options available

Lease Flexibility

Less flexible, often annual upfront payments

Some room for negotiation

Tip: Compounds offer a sense of community, especially for families new to the region. However, open market rentals are increasingly attractive for those seeking more space or affordability.

How Does Renting Work in Saudi Arabia?

Lease Duration & Payment Terms

      • Most contracts are for 12 months.
      • Rent is traditionally paid in one or two installments, though quarterly or monthly payments are becoming more common.
      • All contracts are registered on the Ejar system, a government-regulated rental platform.

Key Lease Inclusions

      • Utilities are usually not included in the rent.
      • Minor maintenance is often the tenant’s responsibility; major repairs are usually handled by the landlord.

Hidden Costs to Consider

      • Agency or broker fee (typically one month’s rent).
      • Municipality taxes (included in some contracts).
      • Compound service charges (if not clearly stated).

Common Housing Challenges for Expats

Despite ongoing improvements, newly arrived expats often face:

      • Limited availability of suitable compound housing, especially during school intake periods.
      • Language barriers during direct lease negotiations landlords or real estate agents.
      • Misunderstandings related to lease terms, deposit returns and maintenance responsibilities.
      • Short timelines for securing housing, especially if Iqama issuance is delayed.

What is Changing in 2025?

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 continues to influence the real estate landscape. Here is what expats should expect:

      • More mixed-use communities: Projects such as King Abdullah Financial District and Qiddiya are reshaping urban living in Riyadh.
      • Increased transparency in rental laws: Government platforms like Ejar are offering better tenant protection and standardized processes.
      • Growth of Digital platforms: Online portals such as Aqar and Bayut are improving access to verified listings—although local expertise remains essential.

Looking Ahead

The Saudi housing market is evolving quickly—what worked five years ago may no longer apply. Understanding available options and getting trusted support on the ground is key to avoiding costly missteps.

How Fragomen Can Help

Fragomen understands that finding the right home is more than a transaction, it lays the foundation for a successful relocation. Fragomen’s destination services are designed to support both employers and individuals by delivering the insight, flexibility and professionalism required throughout the process.

Destination Services in Saudi Arabia include:

      • Pre-arrival consultations to understand housing needs and preferences.
      • Accompanied home search tours, ensuring access to verified and suitable properties.
      • Lease review and negotiation in both English and Arabic.
      • Assistance with Ejar registration, utility setups and move-in coordination.

Fragomen’s experienced consultants based locally provide on-the-ground knowledge that save time, reduce risk, and support a smooth transition into life in Saudi Arabia.

Need to Know More?

For questions related to relocation to Saudi Arabia, please contact Destination Services Manager Ali Sikandar at [email protected].

This blog was published on 2 July 2025, and due to the circumstances, there are frequent changes. To keep up to date with all the latest updates on global immigration, please subscribe to our alerts and follow us on LinkedIn, X, Facebook and Instagram.

Country / Territory

  • Saudi ArabiaSaudi Arabia

Related contacts

Photo of Ali Sikandar

Ali Sikandar

Destination Services Manager

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Email

[email protected]

T:+966 53 426 0193

Related offices

  • Riyadh

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Photo of Ali Sikandar

Ali Sikandar

Destination Services Manager

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Email

[email protected]

T:+966 53 426 0193

Related offices

  • Riyadh

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Photo of Ali Sikandar

Ali Sikandar

Destination Services Manager

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Email

[email protected]

T:+966 53 426 0193

Related offices

  • Riyadh

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Explore more at Fragomen

Blog post

Costa Rica Family Relocation: Understanding Residency for Dependents

Immigration Director Adriana Martínez Garro explains the residency process in Costa Rica for families relocating with dependents, outlining key legal considerations and steps for securing status.

Learn more

Media mentions

Financial Times: Scientists Charged Too Much to Come to Work in UK, Says Royal Society

Fragomen contributed data showing how UK visa and health surcharge costs compare with other leading research nations.

Learn more

Fragomen news

Fragomen Contributes to Migration Observatory Report on Gender and Migration in the UK

Fragomen supported this report, which explores how gender shapes migration patterns, visa routes, employment and settlement in the UK.

Learn more

Blog post

Polish Citizenship Rules Under Review: What the Proposed Amendments Mean

Senior Associate Tomasz Rdzanek or Poland Immigration Strategy Director Tomasz Rogala discuss proposed changes to Poland’s citizenship law aimed at simplifying eligibility and clarifying naturalisation procedures for foreign nationals.

Learn more

Video

Oman Introduces a Golden Visa Program | #MobilityMinute

Manager David Makau discusses Oman's recent introduction of a Golden Visa program.

Learn more

Media mentions

The Stage: Actors, Dancers and Writers Set to Escape Visa Ban

Partner Louise Haycock highlights the inclusion of performing arts occupations on the temporary shortage list and what it means for international talent in the sector.

Learn more

Media mentions

Arts Professional: Creative Sector Must ‘Come Together’ to Give Artists Easier Access to Visas

Partner Louise Haycock highlights opportunities for easier access to overseas talent for the UK creative sector while guiding businesses through evolving visa rules.

Learn more

Blog post

British Citizenship for Adopted and Surrogate Children: What Families Should Know

Associate Amelia Haynes and Paralegal Clare Macmillan Bell discuss the legal considerations surrounding British citizenship for children born through adoption or surrogacy.

Learn more

Media mentions

Financial Times: Boom Time for Immigration Lawyers as US and UK Tighten Restrictions

Partner Bo Cooper provides insight on how evolving US and UK immigration policies, including recent H-1B changes, are shaping corporate mobility and compliance strategies.

Learn more

Video

Atividades Técnicas sob Status de Visitante | #MobilityMinute

O Diretor Executivo da Fragomen Brasil, Diogo Kloper, destaca uma atualização importante na política migratória brasileira, que muda significativamente o que estrangeiros podem fazer no país sob o status de visitante.

Learn more

Media mentions

Global Mobility Lawyer: Founders Without Frontiers: Navigating Immigration Rules for Start-Ups

Partner Rajiv Naik provides insight on how immigration frameworks across the UK, Europe and EMEA are evolving to support start-ups and entrepreneurial talent.

Learn more

Media mentions

The New York Times: Visiting the European Union? Expect to Give Your Biometric Data.

Partner Jo Antoons discusses the rollout of the EU's new Entry/Exit System.

Learn more

Blog post

Costa Rica Family Relocation: Understanding Residency for Dependents

Immigration Director Adriana Martínez Garro explains the residency process in Costa Rica for families relocating with dependents, outlining key legal considerations and steps for securing status.

Learn more

Media mentions

Financial Times: Scientists Charged Too Much to Come to Work in UK, Says Royal Society

Fragomen contributed data showing how UK visa and health surcharge costs compare with other leading research nations.

Learn more

Fragomen news

Fragomen Contributes to Migration Observatory Report on Gender and Migration in the UK

Fragomen supported this report, which explores how gender shapes migration patterns, visa routes, employment and settlement in the UK.

Learn more

Blog post

Polish Citizenship Rules Under Review: What the Proposed Amendments Mean

Senior Associate Tomasz Rdzanek or Poland Immigration Strategy Director Tomasz Rogala discuss proposed changes to Poland’s citizenship law aimed at simplifying eligibility and clarifying naturalisation procedures for foreign nationals.

Learn more

Video

Oman Introduces a Golden Visa Program | #MobilityMinute

Manager David Makau discusses Oman's recent introduction of a Golden Visa program.

Learn more

Media mentions

The Stage: Actors, Dancers and Writers Set to Escape Visa Ban

Partner Louise Haycock highlights the inclusion of performing arts occupations on the temporary shortage list and what it means for international talent in the sector.

Learn more

Media mentions

Arts Professional: Creative Sector Must ‘Come Together’ to Give Artists Easier Access to Visas

Partner Louise Haycock highlights opportunities for easier access to overseas talent for the UK creative sector while guiding businesses through evolving visa rules.

Learn more

Blog post

British Citizenship for Adopted and Surrogate Children: What Families Should Know

Associate Amelia Haynes and Paralegal Clare Macmillan Bell discuss the legal considerations surrounding British citizenship for children born through adoption or surrogacy.

Learn more

Media mentions

Financial Times: Boom Time for Immigration Lawyers as US and UK Tighten Restrictions

Partner Bo Cooper provides insight on how evolving US and UK immigration policies, including recent H-1B changes, are shaping corporate mobility and compliance strategies.

Learn more

Video

Atividades Técnicas sob Status de Visitante | #MobilityMinute

O Diretor Executivo da Fragomen Brasil, Diogo Kloper, destaca uma atualização importante na política migratória brasileira, que muda significativamente o que estrangeiros podem fazer no país sob o status de visitante.

Learn more

Media mentions

Global Mobility Lawyer: Founders Without Frontiers: Navigating Immigration Rules for Start-Ups

Partner Rajiv Naik provides insight on how immigration frameworks across the UK, Europe and EMEA are evolving to support start-ups and entrepreneurial talent.

Learn more

Media mentions

The New York Times: Visiting the European Union? Expect to Give Your Biometric Data.

Partner Jo Antoons discusses the rollout of the EU's new Entry/Exit System.

Learn more

Stay in touch

Subscribe to receive our latest immigration alerts

Subscribe

Our firm

  • About
  • Careers
  • Firm Governance
  • Media Inquiries
  • Recognition

Information

  • Attorney Advertising
  • Legal Notices
  • Privacy Policies
  • UK Regulatory Requirements

Our firm

  • About
  • Careers
  • Firm Governance
  • Media Inquiries
  • Recognition

Information

  • Attorney Advertising
  • Legal Notices
  • Privacy Policies
  • UK Regulatory Requirements

Have a question?

Contact Us
  • LinkedIn
  • Youtube
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

© 2025 Fragomen, Del Rey, Bernsen & Loewy, LLP, Fragomen Global LLP and affiliates. All Rights Reserved.

Please note that the content made available on this site is not intended for visitors / customers located in the province of Quebec, and the information provided is not applicable to the Quebec market. To access relevant information that applies to the Quebec market, please click here.