Saudi Arabia Expat Glossary

Saudi Arabia's primary government digital identity and e-services platform. Manages Iqama issuance and renewal, exit/re-entry visas, dependent Iqama applications, traffic fine payment, and family management. Your gateway to Nafath digital ID and virtually all government portals. Register the day your Iqama is issued — without Absher you cannot renew, transfer employer, or apply for dependent permits. Available at absher.sa and as a mobile app. See apps guide →

The UK's Criminal Records Office. Issues UK Police Certificates (PCC) — a document required as part of the attestation chain for Saudi work visas and international school enrollment from UK nationals. Processing time: 4–6 weeks. Apply at acro.police.uk. US equivalent: FBI Background Check (8–12 weeks via FBI or IdentoGO). See documents checklist →

The world's largest Islamic bank by assets. Widely used by expats for its extensive branch and ATM network, fast Iqama-linked account opening, competitive international transfer rates, and full-featured English-language mobile app. Supports Mada, Apple Pay, and Samsung Pay. See banking guide →

A UNESCO World Heritage region in northwest Saudi Arabia, home to Hegra (Madain Salih) — the Kingdom's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring over 100 Nabataean tombs carved directly into rose-red sandstone mountains. Rapidly growing as a heritage tourism and archaeology employer under Vision 2030's AlUla development programme. See AlUla guide →

Municipal authority. Each major Saudi city has an Amanah (e.g., Amanah Riyadh) responsible for urban planning, commercial licensing, building permits, and local infrastructure services. In Riyadh, accessed digitally via the Tamm app.

An international document authentication stamp issued under the Hague Convention (1961). Required as part of the attestation chain for foreign documents used in Saudi Arabia — degrees, birth certificates, police clearances. Your home country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (or a designated authority) issues the Apostille. Processing time: 4–8 weeks. Countries not party to the Hague Convention require full legalisation instead (add 4–6 weeks). See attestation chain →

The afternoon prayer, third of the five daily Islamic prayers. Businesses briefly close at each prayer time throughout the day. Prayer times shift daily with the sun's position. All five prayers — Fajr (pre-dawn), Dhuhr (midday), Asr (afternoon), Maghrib (sunset), Isha (night) — are broadcast via mosque loudspeakers across all Saudi cities.

The multi-step document legalisation process required before foreign documents are recognised in Saudi Arabia. Mandatory order: (1) Certified Notary in home country → (2) Home Ministry of Education or relevant ministry → (3) Home Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Apostille) → (4) Saudi Embassy/Consulate in home country → (5) Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Riyadh, via a local PRO. Total timeline: 6–14 weeks depending on nationality and document type. Missing any step makes the document invalid for Noor portal school registration, MISA applications, or employment contracts. See checklist →

Municipality / local government body. The Baladiya oversees food safety inspections, commercial premises licensing, building permits, and signage approvals. Businesses need Baladiya clearance in addition to their central government licences (MISA, CR). Also responsible for waste management and public health enforcement.

One of Saudi Arabia's major Islamic banks. Known for competitive home finance (Sharia-compliant mortgage) products. Popular among holders of Premium Residency (Iqama Mumayaz) who can purchase property in Saudi Arabia. Good English-language digital banking.

Saudi Arabia and GCC's leading online property portal (bayut.sa). Primary platform for searching apartments, villas, compounds, and commercial space for rent or sale. Lists both agent and direct landlord properties. Use alongside Propertyfinder and expat Facebook groups for full market coverage. See housing guide →

British International School Riyadh. One of the most sought-after British curriculum schools in Saudi Arabia, with significant waitlists (often 2+ years). Requires CAT4 admissions assessment and full document attestation. Annual fees approximately SAR 55,000–85,000. Apply the moment your job offer is confirmed. See schools guide →

A collective work visa quota granted by MHRSD to an employer, authorising recruitment of a specified number of foreign workers in defined occupational categories. Your employer must hold an active block visa in your exact profession before applying for your individual work visa at the Saudi Embassy in your home country. Also called a block quota or work permit quota.

One of Saudi Arabia's two Class A health insurers under CCHI. Alongside Tawuniya, Bupa Arabia is the premium-tier insurer most commonly included in expat employer healthcare packages. Widely accepted at private hospitals (HMG, Saudi German, Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib). Pre-authorisation typically required for specialist referrals — allow 1–3 business days. See healthcare guide →

Cognitive Abilities Test, 4th edition, produced by GL Education (UK). Required by most British curriculum, IB, and many American international schools in Saudi Arabia as part of the admissions process. Assesses verbal, non-verbal, quantitative, and spatial reasoning abilities. Some schools administer the test on campus; others accept results from licensed test centres in your home country. Results inform teaching group placement, not simply pass/fail admission. See schools guide →

Council of Cooperative Health Insurance (Arabic: مجلس الضمان الصحي التعاوني). Saudi Arabia's health insurance regulatory authority. Mandates that all private sector employers provide compulsory health insurance for all employees (and optionally their dependents) from the first day of employment. Sets minimum coverage standards and approves insurance providers. Bupa Arabia and Tawuniya are its Class A (premium) approved insurers. See healthcare guide →

Ride-hailing and delivery super-app, now fully owned by Uber. Operates across all major Saudi cities — Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Mecca, Medina. Offers ride-hailing, Careem Food delivery, and grocery delivery. Preferred by many expats for its Arabic language support and local driver familiarity. Typical airport run: SAR 45–80. See apps guide →

Corporate Income Tax. Levied at 20% on the foreign-entity share of income generated in Saudi Arabia. Saudi-owned business portions are subject to 2.5% Zakat instead of CIT. In a company with mixed Saudi and foreign ownership, each ownership portion is taxed under its applicable regime separately. Saudi-only companies pay no CIT. Administered by ZATCA. See tax guide →

The official business registration certificate issued by the Ministry of Commerce (MOCI). Required for: opening corporate bank accounts, signing legally binding contracts, employing staff, renewing MISA licences, and registering for VAT with ZATCA. Think of it as the Saudi equivalent of a company registration number. Must be renewed annually. See company setup →

A gated residential community designed primarily for Western expats. Provides amenities including swimming pools, gyms, restaurants, children's play areas, tennis courts, and 24-hour security. Social rules within the compound gates (mixed-gender pools, entertainment events, alcohol in some compounds) differ from Saudi public norms. Typical monthly rents: villa SAR 7,000–15,000; apartment SAR 4,000–8,000. Most landlords require 1–4 post-dated cheques covering the full year upfront. See housing guide →

An international credential verification service mandated for healthcare professionals seeking to practise in Saudi Arabia. The Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS) requires Dataflow verification of all medical degrees, professional licences, and employment history before issuing a Saudi professional licence. Processing takes 6–12 weeks — initiate before departing your home country. See healthcare guide →

A residence permit issued to family members (spouse, unmarried children) sponsored by the primary Iqama holder. Annual fee: SAR 100–400 per person. Eligibility requirement: the sponsoring employee must earn a minimum of SAR 4,000/month. Managed via Absher under the "Family Management" section. Children over 18 typically require their own independent Iqama unless enrolled in Saudi education. See Iqama guide →

The historic birthplace of the Saudi state, located on the outskirts of Riyadh in the At-Turaif district. A UNESCO World Heritage Site. Now the centrepiece of the Diriyah Gate giga-project, being developed into a premier cultural tourism destination with museums, restaurants, hotels, and performance venues. An increasingly desirable premium residential address in Riyadh.

A traditional Saudi gathering space — a formal reception room within a home used for hosting male guests. Also refers to informal social gatherings among friends and colleagues. Understanding Diwaniya culture is important for navigating professional relationships in Saudi Arabia: being invited to a Diwaniya is a mark of respect and genuine acceptance.

The integrated bus and public transport network operating alongside the Riyadh Metro. Provides feeder bus routes extending metro coverage to areas between stations and into residential neighbourhoods. Tickets purchased via the Darb app. Expanding route network as the Riyadh Metro reaches full operational capacity. See transport guide →

Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement. Bilateral tax treaties between Saudi Arabia and 50+ countries including the UK, France, China, India, South Korea, and most EU member states. DTAAs can significantly reduce or eliminate Withholding Tax (WHT) rates on cross-border payments (dividends, royalties, management fees). Always verify whether your home country has a DTAA with Saudi Arabia before structuring any cross-border payment arrangement. See tax guide →

A statutory lump sum paid by employers to employees upon departure after 2+ years of service. Formula under Royal Decree M/51: 0.5 month basic salary per year of service for years 2–5; 1 month basic salary per year for years 5 and beyond. Calculated on basic salary only — not on housing, transport, or other allowances. Cannot be contractually waived. Budget approximately 1 month's basic salary per employee per year of employment from day one. See labour law →

The Saudi government's electronic procurement and contracting platform. Used by government ministries and entities to issue public tenders and by registered businesses to submit bids and register as approved government vendors. Essential for any company seeking Saudi public sector contracts.

Previously, all expats required employer permission (an exit visa) to leave Saudi Arabia. Since the 2021 Kafala reform, most employed workers can exit without employer consent after completing 12 months of service. For those still requiring it: single exit/re-entry SAR 200; multiple exit/re-entry SAR 500. Apply via Absher. Family visit visas for dependents are still managed separately. See visa guide →

Expatriate. Any foreign national residing in Saudi Arabia on a residence permit (Iqama). Expats constitute approximately 38% of Saudi Arabia's total population and over 75% of the private sector workforce. The largest expat communities are Indian, Pakistani, Filipino, Bangladeshi, Egyptian, Yemeni, and Western nationalities.

Invoice. "Fatoorah Iliktroniyya" is an e-invoice. ZATCA mandates e-invoicing compliance for all VAT-registered businesses in Saudi Arabia. Phase 1 (digital invoice generation, replacing paper): live since December 2021. Phase 2 (real-time ZATCA system integration with cryptographic stamps): rolling out by sector from January 2023. Non-Phase-2-compliant invoices are not VAT-deductible for the buyer. Freelancers must include their Qiwa permit number on all invoices. See freelance guide →

The pre-dawn prayer — first of the five daily Islamic prayers. Prayer times shift daily throughout the year based on sunrise and sunset. The Adhan (call to prayer) is broadcast from mosque loudspeakers across Saudi cities at each prayer time. Friday (Jumu'ah) midday prayer is particularly significant: many businesses close from approximately 11:30 am to 1:30 pm on Fridays.

Foreign Earned Income Exclusion. A US tax provision allowing American citizens working abroad to exclude a portion of their foreign employment income from US federal income tax — up to approximately $126,500 in 2024, adjusted annually for inflation. US citizens in Saudi Arabia must still file annual US tax returns despite Saudi Arabia having 0% personal income tax. Take specialist cross-border tax advice before relocating. See tax guide →

Saudi Arabia's two main low-cost domestic and regional airlines. flynas (part of Air Arabia group) and flyadeal (a Saudia subsidiary) dominate budget domestic travel. Routes include Riyadh–Jeddah from SAR 79 (1.5 hrs) and Riyadh–Dammam from SAR 69 (1 hr). Most expats fly rather than drive for intercity travel given Saudi Arabia's distances. See transport guide →

Special Economic Zones offering reduced corporate tax rates, simplified customs clearance, 100% foreign ownership, and streamlined licensing for qualifying businesses. Saudi Arabia's operational and planned SEZs include: Ras Al-Khair Industrial City (mining/industrial), King Salman Energy Park (SPARK, Dammam — oil & gas), Jazan Economic City (manufacturing), and Cloud Computing SEZ (Riyadh — tech). Administered by SEZA (Special Economic Zones Authority). See free zones guide →

Gulf Approved Medical Centres Association. The network of clinics in workers' home countries authorised to perform the mandatory pre-departure medical examination required for a Saudi work visa. Screens for tuberculosis (TB), HIV, and Hepatitis B — a positive result for any of these disqualifies the visa application. GAMCA certificate validity: 3 months. Fee equivalent: SAR 200–400. Failure to pass means returning home for re-screening after treatment. See documents checklist →

Gulf Cooperation Council. The political and economic union of Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman. GCC nationals enjoy significantly simplified employment and residency processes in Saudi Arabia: streamlined driving licence conversion, simplified property ownership rights, and preferential treatment under many Nitaqat calculations. Not to be confused with expat benefits — GCC rules apply to GCC citizens only.

Saudi Arabia's flagship Vision 2030 mega-development programmes: NEOM (futuristic city complex, Tabuk), Diriyah Gate (heritage tourism, Riyadh), Red Sea Project / Red Sea Global (luxury eco-resort, Red Sea coast), ROSHN (national residential communities), Qiddiya (entertainment city, southwest Riyadh), and AMAALA (ultra-luxury wellness resort, Red Sea). Collectively employing tens of thousands of expat professionals in engineering, architecture, technology, hospitality, and project management.

A UK-based educational assessment company. Producer of the CAT4 (Cognitive Abilities Test) widely required for international school admissions across Saudi Arabia, and the Progress Test Series used by many British curriculum schools for annual benchmarking. See schools guide →

General Organization for Social Insurance (Arabic: المؤسسة العامة للتأمين الاجتماعي). Saudi Arabia's social insurance authority. Saudi national employees contribute 21.5% of salary (split between employer 12% and employee 9.5%) toward pension and unemployment (SANED) coverage. Expatriate employees do not contribute to the pension portion but are covered for occupational hazards — employer pays 2% of expat salary to GOSI. All employers must register all staff on the GOSI portal from day one. See hiring guide →

The annual Islamic pilgrimage to Makkah — one of the Five Pillars of Islam, mandatory for all Muslims who are physically and financially able. Takes place during Dhul Hijjah (the 12th Islamic month). Non-Muslims are prohibited from entering Makkah or Madinah. Riyadh and Jeddah slow significantly during Hajj week as millions of pilgrims transit. Government operations run on reduced schedules.

Permissible under Islamic law. All food sold publicly in Saudi Arabia must be halal. Pork and pork-derived products are prohibited throughout the Kingdom. Alcohol is illegal and unavailable in shops or restaurants. Halal certification from the relevant Saudi authority is required for all food businesses and all imported food products.

The Haramain High Speed Railway connecting Mecca, Jeddah (King Abdulaziz International Airport), King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC), and Medina. Operates at up to 300 km/h. Key journey times: Jeddah–Mecca 30 minutes; Jeddah–Medina approximately 2 hours. Non-Muslims may only use the Jeddah–KAEC section — access to Mecca and Medina stations is restricted to Muslims. Tickets via the Haramain Railway app. See transport guide →

The Islamic lunar calendar (AH — Anno Hegirae), approximately 11 days shorter than the Gregorian year. Used for all religious observances (Ramadan, Hajj, Eid), some official documents, and government contract dates. Saudi government-issued documents often show both Hijri (H) and Gregorian (G) dates. The current Hijri year is approximately 1446H (2024–2025 G).

Saudi German Hospital Group (Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group). A leading private hospital group operating across major Saudi cities. HMG Olaya Medical Complex in Riyadh is particularly well-regarded by expats for its 24/7 English-speaking pediatric emergency room. HMG Women and Children Hospital provides specialist maternity and pediatric care. Accepts Bupa Arabia and Tawuniya insurance. HMG Dammam serves the Eastern Province expat community. See healthcare guide →

A specialist therapy centre with locations in Riyadh and Jeddah providing ABA (Applied Behaviour Analysis) therapy and other support services for children with autism spectrum disorder. English-speaking therapists available. Waitlists of 6–14 weeks are typical — register immediately upon arrival in Saudi Arabia. Accepts some CCHI-regulated insurance plans. See healthcare guide →

Saudi Arabia's dominant food delivery platform, part of the Delivery Hero group. Covers food, HungerStation Dmart grocery delivery, and pharmacy delivery across all major cities. Available in Arabic and English. Alongside Jahez and Careem Food, it is one of the three dominant delivery apps expats rely on. See apps guide →

International Bank Account Number. Required for all WPS-compliant salary transfers. Saudi IBANs are 24 characters long, starting with SA. Every employee must have a Saudi bank account with a valid IBAN registered with their employer before the first WPS payroll cycle. Without a Saudi IBAN, you cannot receive your salary through the Wage Protection System.

Indian Certificate of Secondary Education. The curriculum operated by the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE), used by Indian-affiliated international schools across Saudi Arabia alongside the CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education). Schools using ICSE/CBSE curricula have the lowest annual fees (SAR 12,000–35,000/year), the largest expat community enrolment in the Kingdom, and typically no CAT4 admissions requirement. See schools guide →

A long-term Saudi residency visa available to foreign investors who hold a valid MISA investment licence and active Commercial Registration (CR). Renewable alongside the CR. Grants the right to reside in Saudi Arabia and operate a business without requiring standard Kafala employer sponsorship. Since 2021, 100% foreign ownership is permitted in most business sectors, removing the previous requirement for a Saudi co-shareholder. See visa guide →

Residence permit. The identity card that legally authorises a foreign national to reside and work in Saudi Arabia. Must be carried at all times (or stored digitally in the Absher app). Annual renewal fee: SAR 650, paid by the employer. Overstay fine: SAR 100 per day. Your Iqama number is your civil ID across all Saudi government portals, banks, utilities, and the GOSI/ZATCA systems. Required for: opening a bank account, obtaining a driving licence, enrolling children in school, accessing healthcare, signing a lease, and registering a SIM card. See full Iqama guide →

Saudi Arabia's long-term residency permit granting near-citizen rights: property ownership, business setup without a Saudi partner, access to most government services at citizen rates, and freedom of movement. Available in two forms: permanent (SAR 800,000 one-time fee) or renewable annual (SAR 100,000/year). Applications via the Premium Residency Centre. Particularly attractive for high-earning professionals planning a long-term Saudi stay. See visa types →

Vehicle registration card. Must be kept in the vehicle at all times and produced at police checkpoints. Renewed annually via the Muroor app or Absher. An expired Istimara results in an automatic fine via the Saher camera system. Driving with a long-expired Istimara may result in vehicle impoundment pending payment of fines and fees.

Saudi food delivery app and direct competitor to HungerStation. Strong coverage across Riyadh, Jeddah, and major cities. Particularly popular for local Saudi restaurant chains and authentic regional cuisine. Publicly listed on Tadawul (the Saudi Exchange). See apps guide →

The General Directorate of Passports (part of the Ministry of Interior). Responsible for issuing and renewing Iqamas, processing family visit visas, handling exit/re-entry permits, and managing dependant residence permits. Now largely digitalised — most routine processes handled via Absher. Physical Jawazat offices handle complex cases, biometric capture, and first-time Iqama issuance. See Iqama guide →

King Abdullah Economic City. A planned city on the Red Sea coast north of Jeddah, developed by Emaar Economic City. Hosts the Haramain Railway's KAEC station — the non-Muslim-accessible stop on the Jeddah–Medina line. Growing as an industrial, port, and residential hub. King Abdullah Port at KAEC is one of the largest ports in the region.

King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh. The Kingdom's premier financial business address — a cluster of skyscrapers, Grade-A offices, hotels, and retail, all served by a dedicated Riyadh Metro Blue Line station. Headquarters for many multinational firms, Saudi Exchange (Tadawul), and major financial institutions. Developed specifically as part of Vision 2030's economic diversification agenda.

The employer sponsorship system that traditionally tied an expat's legal status entirely to their employer (kafeel). Reformed significantly in 2021: employees can now change employers after 12 months without employer consent (via a Qiwa transfer), exit the country without an employer exit permit, and transfer their Iqama more freely. Full abolition has not occurred — the 12-month threshold still applies. The 2021 reforms are among the most significant changes to expat life in Saudi Arabia's modern history. See visa guide →

Sponsor. Under the Kafala system, your employer is your kafeel and is legally responsible for your residency status. Post-2021 reform, a kafeel's practical control over your movement and job change is significantly diminished — but the word remains in common use in everyday conversation and some official documents.

Saudi Arabia's specialised employment dispute courts, operating under the Ministry of Justice. Cases are referred from MHRSD mediation if a settlement is not reached within 21 days. Proceedings are conducted entirely in Arabic — expats are strongly advised to retain a licensed Saudi lawyer. Labour Court decisions can be appealed to the Court of Appeals within 30 days of judgment. Arbitrary dismissal compensation: 2 months' salary per year of service, over and above EOSG. See labour law →

NEOM's flagship linear city — a 170 km-long, 500-metre-tall mirrored structure with no roads, no cars, and 100% renewable energy. Planned to house 9 million residents in a compressed urban environment. One of the world's most ambitious and controversial infrastructure projects. A major employer for international architects, engineers, urban planners, and project managers. See NEOM guide →

Saudi Arabia's domestic interbank payment network. All Saudi debit cards are Mada-enabled. Functions at all Saudi ATMs and virtually all POS terminals, including tap-to-pay (NFC). Integrated with Apple Pay and Samsung Pay for contactless payments. Required for WPS-compliant salary receipt. Mada payments are processed domestically, avoiding international card fees. See banking guide →

A woman's close male relative (husband, father, brother, son) acting as a guardian under traditional Islamic interpretation. Most formal Mahram restrictions for women in Saudi Arabia were removed from 2019 onward — women can now obtain passports, travel internationally, work, rent property, and live independently without a Mahram's permission. Cultural expectations around family involvement in major decisions vary by individual family background.

Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (Arabic: وزارة الموارد البشرية والتنمية الاجتماعية). The key ministry for all employment matters in Saudi Arabia: enforcing Royal Decree M/51 (Labour Law), issuing work permits, running the Qiwa platform, overseeing Nitaqat/Saudisation compliance, monitoring WPS salary payments, and mediating labour disputes. All employer-employee disputes pass through MHRSD before reaching the Labour Courts. Portal: hrsd.gov.sa. See labour law →

Ministry of Investment Saudi Arabia (formerly SAGIA — Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority). Issues MISA investment licences required for foreign companies to establish any legal entity in the Kingdom (LLC, branch, RHQ). Sets permitted activities, foreign ownership rules, and minimum capital requirements. Issues Investor Visas linked to active business licences. The primary government contact for all foreign direct investment into Saudi Arabia. Portal: misa.gov.sa. See company setup →

Saudi Arabia's second-largest telecommunications operator (after STC), owned by Etisalat (e&). Offers competitive mobile, home broadband, and enterprise connectivity services. Popular among expats for strong data plans and eSIM options. SIM card registration requires a valid Iqama. See apps guide →

Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Arabic: وزارة الخارجية). Oversees Saudi Arabia's diplomatic relations, embassy affairs, and foreign document authentication. The Saudi MOFA is the final step in the document attestation chain — after your home-country apostille and Saudi Embassy stamp, a Saudi PRO submits documents to Saudi MOFA for final authentication before they are valid for use in the Kingdom. Not to be confused with your home country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which issues your Apostille.

Ministry of Health (Arabic: وزارة الصحة). Oversees Saudi Arabia's public healthcare system, regulates private hospital standards, manages GAMCA medical screening requirements, and runs the national immunisation programme (Saudi EPI vaccination schedule). MOH-licensed clinics must carry out the Iqama medical screening. The Saudi EPI vaccination record is required for Noor portal school registration. See healthcare guide →

Sole proprietorship or individual establishment. The simplest business structure in Saudi Arabia — a business legally owned and operated entirely by one individual. Available to Saudi nationals and, in approved NEC categories, to expat Iqama holders who hold a Qiwa freelance permit as their legal basis for self-employment. See freelance guide →

The Saudi government's domestic labour management and payroll platform. Used by households and small employers to hire, manage contracts, and pay domestic workers (housekeepers, drivers, nannies) through a regulated, traceable WPS-equivalent system. Integrated with Musaned for international domestic worker recruitment and with GOSI for occupational hazard registration.

Resident. The Muqeem portal (muqeem.sa) is the official government platform for tracking and managing expatriate residency data. Used by employers to: register their foreign workforce, verify Iqama validity, check work permit status, process visa matters, and manage employee departures. An essential compliance tool for any company with expat staff.

The General Directorate of Traffic (Saudi Traffic Police). Responsible for: issuing and converting driving licences, vehicle registration (Istimara), enforcing traffic fines via the Saher camera system, and managing traffic accidents. Most Muroor services are now available via the Muroor app and Absher. Physical Muroor service centres handle first-time licence conversions and complex cases. See transport guide →

The government platform for recruiting domestic workers (housekeepers, drivers, nannies, cooks) from abroad. Families use Musaned to initiate visa applications, review worker profiles from source countries, and handle recruitment fees through a transparent, regulated process. Integrated with Mudad for ongoing payroll management after arrival.

Saudi Arabia's national digital identity verification platform. Linked to your Iqama number, Nafath provides a secure, biometric-verified digital identity used to log into all government e-services: ZATCA, GOSI, court portals, MHRSD, and more. Activate via the Absher app after receiving your Iqama. Without Nafath, accessing most online government portals is not possible. See Iqama guide →

Saudi Arabia's controlled substance and prescription medication import approval system, managed by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA). Travellers and residents wishing to bring certain controlled or prescription medications into the Kingdom must obtain Nar'ah pre-approval before travel. Some medications legal in home countries are classified as controlled substances in Saudi Arabia — check the SFDA drug registry at sfda.gov.sa before packing. See checklist →

Saudi Arabia's standardised addressing system. Every residence and commercial property has a unique national address — a "short address" of 4 letters + 4 numbers (e.g., RHGA1234) plus a full structured address. Required for: opening bank accounts, government registrations, Absher address updates, utility connections, and deliveries. Register via the Saudi Post (SPL) app or the Saudi Post website. Without a registered national address many banking and government services are inaccessible.

National Employment Code. A standardised profession and job title classification system used by MHRSD and the Qiwa platform. Your NEC code determines your work permit category and which Qiwa freelance permit subcategories you can apply for. Selecting the wrong NEC code on a Qiwa application causes an automatic rejection — the application must be resubmitted. Verify your exact NEC code on qiwa.sa before applying. See freelance guide →

A multi-project mega-city development in the Tabuk region of northwest Saudi Arabia, on the Red Sea coast and Hisma Desert. Comprises: The Line (170 km linear city), Oxagon (floating industrial island), Trojena (mountain resort and ski destination, host of 2029 Asian Winter Games), and Sindalah (island luxury resort). One of the world's largest construction projects and a major Vision 2030 employer for international professionals. See NEOM guide →

Saudi Arabia's Saudisation workforce quota compliance system. Companies are classified into four performance bands based on their ratio of Saudi to non-Saudi employees: Platinum (significantly exceeds quota — maximum hiring flexibility), Green (meets quota — normal work permit processing), Yellow (below quota — restricted new work permit issuance), Red (significantly below — frozen work permits and potential fines). Minimum Saudi national ratios vary by sector: construction 6%, retail/hospitality 20–30%, tech/professional services 15–25%. Managed via MHRSD and the Qiwa platform. See hiring guide →

No Objection Certificate (Arabic: خطاب عدم الاعتراض). A formal letter from your current employer permitting the transfer of your Iqama sponsorship to a new employer. Under pre-2021 Kafala rules, an NOC was required for any job change. Since the 2021 reforms, an NOC is only required during the first 12 months of employment — after that, the Qiwa platform handles the transfer digitally without employer involvement.

The Saudi Ministry of Education's student enrollment and academic records management system. All children attending school in Saudi Arabia — in both public and international schools — must be registered on Noor. Registration is performed by the school and requires: attested and Saudi-Embassy-stamped birth certificate, parent Iqama copy, Saudi EPI vaccination record, and school placement letter. Missing any single document delays enrollment by 4–8 weeks. See schools guide →

Public Relations Officer. A company's designated person (or outsourced PRO service) who handles all government-facing paperwork on behalf of the company and its employees: Iqama renewals, work permit applications, MHRSD filings, document notarisation, attestation, and ministry visits. Essential for any company with more than a handful of expat employees. Many individuals and small businesses hire PRO service firms to navigate bureaucracy rather than handling it themselves.

A leading online property portal (propertyfinder.com.sa) operating across Saudi Arabia and the wider GCC. Lists apartments, villas, townhouses, compounds, and commercial properties with agent contact details and pricing. Use alongside Bayut and expat Facebook groups for a full view of the rental and sales market. See housing guide →

Traditional Saudi/Arabic coffee. A lightly brewed beverage made with cardamom, saffron, and often rosewater, served in small handle-less cups (finjan). Offered at meetings, social gatherings, ceremonies, and as the opening gesture of Saudi hospitality. Accepting qahwa graciously — and using your right hand — is an important cultural norm. Shaking the cup gently side-to-side signals you have had enough.

A massive entertainment, sports, and arts giga-project planned southwest of Riyadh. Will include a Formula 1 circuit, Six Flags theme parks, water parks, golf courses, a performing arts district, esports arena, and residential communities. One of the core Vision 2030 projects aimed at providing domestic entertainment and reducing entertainment spending abroad. A major employer in hospitality, construction, and entertainment management.

MHRSD's integrated digital employment platform. Employers use Qiwa to: register employment contracts, manage work permit quotas, track Nitaqat compliance, process job transfers, and manage the Wage Protection System. Employees use Qiwa to: view their registered contract, file labour complaints (employer has 21 days to respond), initiate employer transfers (after 12 months), and apply for freelance permits. Access at qiwa.sa using Absher credentials. See labour law →

Royal Commission for Riyadh City. The government body overseeing Riyadh's urban masterplan, infrastructure development, and strategic projects. Also operates the RCRC International Schools Program — a corporate partnership scheme (with providers including King's College London) to expand international school capacity for companies relocating large numbers of families to Riyadh. Companies partnering with RCRC may access priority school placement through corporate channels. See schools guide →

A luxury eco-tourism giga-project on Saudi Arabia's Red Sea coast, north of Jeddah, now rebranded as Red Sea Global. Encompasses 50+ islands, coral reef preservation zones, and coastal resort developments. A significant employer in hospitality, marine ecology, aviation, architecture, and construction. Designed to be fully powered by renewable energy with zero single-use plastics.

A Saudi visa category for foreign nationals who work remotely for companies based outside Saudi Arabia. Allows residence in the Kingdom without local employer sponsorship. Applicants must demonstrate active employment with a foreign-incorporated company and sufficient income. Annual cost: approximately USD 650. Does not convert to a standard work Iqama — holders cannot take up local Saudi employment. See visa types →

See Iqama.

Real Estate Transaction Tax. A 5% tax levied on the value of all real estate sales and ownership transfers in Saudi Arabia. Replaced VAT on real estate transactions from October 2020. The buyer typically bears the RETT cost, though it can be negotiated. Administered and collected by ZATCA. Applies to both residential and commercial property. See tax guide →

Regional Headquarters. A specific legal entity structure where a multinational company establishes its regional management hub for the Middle East and Africa (MENA) in Saudi Arabia. The Saudi government mandated that multinationals seeking Saudi government contracts must establish an RHQ in the Kingdom. RHQs require: MISA licence, CR, minimum staffing levels, and genuine decision-making functions in Saudi Arabia (not purely a letterbox). See company setup →

A mass rapid transit system serving Riyadh, fully operational since late 2024. 6 lines, 85 stations connecting King Khalid International Airport, King Abdulaziz Road (the main north-south spine), KAFD, universities, and major residential districts. Integrated with the Doroob bus network. Fares: SAR 4–16 per journey; monthly pass SAR 150–300. Separate family and women's carriages available. See transport guide →

The primary Saudi Labour Law, issued in 1426H (2005) and amended periodically. Governs all employment relationships in the Kingdom: contracts, maximum working hours (48 hrs/week; 36 during Ramadan), annual leave (21 days/yr; 30 days after 5 years), sick leave (30 days full pay, 60 days 75%, 30 days unpaid per year), overtime pay (150%), end-of-service gratuity formula, probation terms (max 90 days, extendable to 180), notice periods, and termination rights. Binding on all employers regardless of nationality. See labour law →

Saudi Arabia's product conformity assessment platform, operated by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO). Importers and manufacturers must obtain SABER certificates for regulated product categories before goods can clear Saudi customs. Applies to electronics, electrical equipment, building materials, children's toys, and other regulated categories. A compliance step that catches many first-time importers off guard.

The national electronic bill payment system. Pay utility bills (SEC electricity, SWCC water), government fees, telephone bills, insurance premiums, and more through your bank's app, ATM, or online portal. Every payable item has a unique SADAD number. Fast, reliable, and universally used by both individuals and businesses across Saudi Arabia. See apps guide →

Saudi Arabia's automated road surveillance and traffic enforcement system, operated by Muroor. Camera-based detection of speeding, red-light violations, illegal parking, and other infractions. Fines are automatically recorded against your Iqama number and must be cleared before Iqama renewal. Speed limits: 120 km/h on highways, 80 km/h on main roads, 60 km/h in urban areas — strictly enforced. Check and pay fines via Absher. See transport guide →

Saudi Central Bank (Arabic: مؤسسة النقد العربي السعودي — Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority). The Kingdom's central banking and financial regulatory authority. Regulates all Saudi banks, insurance companies (alongside CCHI for health insurance), exchange houses, and SAMA-licensed fintech platforms (including STC Pay and digital banks). Manages the SAR/USD peg at a fixed rate of 3.75. Consumer protection complaints against banks are filed with SAMA. See banking guide →

Saudi Arabian Riyal (Arabic: ريال سعودي). The Kingdom's official currency. Pegged to the US Dollar at a fixed rate of 3.75 SAR = 1 USD since 1986 — there is no exchange rate risk on the Saudi side of a USD-denominated salary. Sub-unit: Halalah (100 Halalah = 1 SAR). Widely available as: SAR 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 200, 500 notes.

Saudi Arabia Real-Time Interbank Settlement — the Kingdom's instant payment infrastructure, equivalent to the UK's Faster Payments or the EU's SEPA Instant. Enables real-time SAR transfers between Saudi bank accounts 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Integrated into all major Saudi banking apps and required for WPS-compliant salary disbursements.

Saudi Public Transport Company. Operates the national intercity bus network. Key routes: Riyadh–Jeddah (approximately 10 hours, SAR 95), Riyadh–Dammam (4 hours, SAR 60), and other inter-city connections. Air-conditioned coaches with scheduled rest stops. Popular for budget intercity travel when flying is not preferred. Book via the SAPTCO app or official website. See transport guide →

Saudi Arabian Oil Company. The world's largest oil producer and highest-revenue company. State-owned but partially listed on the Tadawul (Saudi Exchange) since 2019. Headquartered in Dhahran, Eastern Province. Saudi Aramco is the largest single employer of expat professionals in the Kingdom, particularly in petroleum engineering, geology, project management, and technical services.

Saudi Arabian Airlines. The Kingdom's national carrier, operating extensive domestic and international routes. Full-service carrier with business and economy classes. Alongside flynas and flyadeal, dominates the Saudi domestic aviation market. See transport guide →

See Nitaqat. The government policy mandating that private sector companies employ a minimum proportion of Saudi nationals in their workforce, enforced via the Nitaqat classification system.

Saudi Electricity Company (Arabic: شركة الكهرباء السعودية). The primary electricity provider across Saudi Arabia. Register a new electricity connection at mysec.com.sa using your Iqama and signed lease contract. Bills paid via SADAD. Residential electricity is subsidised. Most compounds include electricity in the monthly rent — confirm before signing a lease.

Special Economic Zones Authority. The government body administering Saudi Arabia's Special Economic Zones (SEZs), which offer reduced corporate income tax rates, streamlined customs procedures, and simplified business establishment for qualifying investors. Active SEZs include: Ras Al-Khair (industrial/mining), SPARK/King Salman Energy Park (Dammam), Jazan (manufacturing), and Cloud Computing SEZ (Riyadh). See free zones →

Saudi Food and Drug Authority (Arabic: الهيئة العامة للغذاء والدواء). Regulates food safety, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and cosmetics in Saudi Arabia. Check the SFDA drug registry at sfda.gov.sa before bringing any prescription or over-the-counter medication into the Kingdom — some commonly available drugs in other countries are controlled or outright prohibited in Saudi Arabia. Nar'ah pre-approval required for controlled substances. See checklist →

Saudi National Bank (Arabic: البنك الأهلي السعودي). Saudi Arabia's largest bank by assets, formed through the 2021 merger of National Commercial Bank (NCB) and Samba Financial Group. Offers full retail and corporate banking with a strong English-language app, dedicated expat account opening service, and broad ATM coverage. See banking guide →

King Salman Energy Park. Saudi Arabia's Special Economic Zone dedicated to the oil, gas, and energy services sector, located in the Eastern Province near Dammam. Hosts oil field equipment manufacturers, fabrication facilities, engineering companies, and maintenance providers. A key employment hub for expat engineers and technical specialists in the energy sector. See free zones →

Saudi Telecom Company (Arabic: الاتصالات السعودية). Saudi Arabia's largest and longest-established telecommunications provider. Operates the widest mobile coverage network in the Kingdom, fibre broadband (STC Home, with 200Mbps plans at SAR 199–249/month and 1Gbps at SAR 349+), and enterprise connectivity. Parent company of STC Pay and STC Bank. SIM registration requires a valid Iqama. See apps guide →

Saudi Arabia's leading SAMA-licensed digital wallet, operated by Saudi Telecom Company. Functions without a traditional bank account — making it the go-to interim financial tool for newly arrived expats before their Iqama is issued and a bank account opened. Supports peer-to-peer transfers, bill payments (SADAD), and tap-to-pay. Can be upgraded to full digital bank functionality. See banking guide →

The Saudi Exchange. Saudi Arabia's official stock exchange, located in KAFD, Riyadh. Full name: Saudi Exchange (Tadawul). Lists over 200 companies including Saudi Aramco (world's largest listed company by market capitalisation). Expats with a valid Iqama can open a Tadawul investment account through an approved Saudi broker. Also operates the Nomu parallel market for smaller listed companies.

Riyadh municipality's official digital services app (Amanah Riyadh). Used to apply for municipal permits, commercial licences, report infrastructure issues (potholes, street lights), track service requests, and access local government services specific to Riyadh. Available on iOS and Android. See apps guide →

Work permit. The official MHRSD authorisation permitting a foreign national to be employed in Saudi Arabia. Your employer obtains this via Qiwa and MHRSD before your individual work visa can be issued at the Saudi Embassy in your home country. The term "Tasaheel" specifically refers to the freelance work permit variant issued via Qiwa for the Qiwa freelance permit programme. See freelance guide →

Saudi Arabia's official government digital services app, developed by SDAIA (Saudi Data and AI Authority). Originally launched for COVID-19 health status management, Tawakkalna has evolved into a multi-function e-government app: digital Iqama display, health status records, vaccination certificates, and access to a growing catalogue of government services. Linked to your Iqama and Absher account. See apps guide →

The Co-operative Insurance Company — Saudi Arabia's oldest and one of its largest insurance providers. A CCHI Class A insurer, widely accepted across private hospitals and specialist clinics. Alongside Bupa Arabia, Tawuniya is the most commonly included insurer in expat employer health packages. Offers health, motor, property, and travel insurance products. See healthcare guide →

Tax regulations governing the pricing of transactions between related entities — for example, a Saudi subsidiary paying a management fee or royalty to its foreign parent company. ZATCA applies OECD transfer pricing guidelines requiring arm's-length pricing. Mispriced intercompany transactions can result in tax adjustments and penalties. Relevant for all multinationals with a Saudi presence and cross-border intercompany payments. See tax guide →

NEOM's mountain adventure and tourism destination in the Tabuk highlands (altitude 1,500–2,600m). Will include outdoor ski slopes — the first outdoor skiing facility in the Middle East — alongside an alpine lake, extreme sports park, and mountain residences. Selected to host the 2029 Asian Winter Games. A major employer in construction, hospitality, and mountain sports management. See NEOM guide →

Global ride-hailing platform operating across all major Saudi cities. Also owns Careem. Popular with expats for its familiar interface, English-language support, and reliable coverage. Typical airport run: SAR 45–80. Surge pricing applies during peak hours, holidays, and Eid periods. Both Uber and Careem use the same ride pool in some markets. See apps guide →

The "lesser pilgrimage" to Makkah — a voluntary Islamic pilgrimage that can be performed at any time of year, unlike Hajj which has fixed dates. Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter Makkah or Madinah under any circumstances. For Muslim expats holding a valid Iqama, an Umrah visa is generally not required — Iqama holders can perform Umrah directly. Umrah season (outside Hajj months) is busy but accessible.

Value Added Tax. Standard rate: 15% (introduced at 5% in January 2018, raised to 15% in July 2020). Applies to most goods and services supplied in Saudi Arabia. Mandatory VAT registration for annual taxable supplies exceeding SAR 375,000; voluntary registration from SAR 187,500. Filing frequency: monthly (large businesses) or quarterly (SMEs). Administered by ZATCA via the zatca.gov.sa portal. All VAT-registered businesses must also comply with Fatoorah e-invoicing rules. See tax guide →

Saudi Arabia's national economic and social transformation programme, launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in April 2016. Core goals: diversify GDP away from oil dependency, grow the private sector's GDP share from 40% to 65%, raise women's workforce participation to 30%, increase tourism revenue to 10% of GDP, and attract 100 million tourist visits annually by 2030. Vision 2030 is the driving force behind every regulatory reform, giga-project, social liberalisation, and employment policy change that expats encounter in Saudi Arabia.

Connections, influence, or "who you know." A deeply embedded cultural concept across the Arab world and particularly prominent in Saudi Arabia. Personal referrals from respected individuals, family connections, and tribal networks can significantly accelerate administrative processes, business deal closure, and hiring decisions. Building authentic long-term relationships is not optional in Saudi professional culture — it is the foundation of how business gets done.

Withholding Tax. A tax deducted at source by the paying Saudi entity when making payments to non-resident entities. Rates under standard Saudi law: dividends 5%, interest 5%, royalties and IP licence fees 15%, management fees 20%, technical services 5%, insurance premiums 5%, freight 5%, other payments to non-residents 15%. The Saudi company deducts WHT and must remit the amount to ZATCA within 10 days of the payment month-end. DTAA treaties can significantly reduce applicable rates. See tax guide →

See Tasaheel / Tashgheel. The official MHRSD authorisation for a foreign national to be employed in Saudi Arabia, obtained by the employer before the work visa is issued.

Wage Protection System (Arabic: نظام حماية الأجور). A mandatory electronic salary monitoring system operated by MHRSD. All private sector employers must pay salaries via bank transfer (SARIE) to WPS-approved employee accounts. Salaries must match the amounts registered on Qiwa-filed employment contracts. Payment delays trigger automatic MHRSD alerts; repeated violations result in a ban on new work permit applications and potential legal action. WPS creates an irrefutable digital record — making it the primary evidence used in salary dispute cases. See labour law →

Saudi Arabia's third-largest mobile network operator (after STC and Mobily), part of the regional Zain Group. Offers competitive prepaid and postpaid mobile plans, particularly popular for budget-friendly data packages. Full 4G/5G network across major cities. SIM registration requires a valid Iqama.

The Islamic wealth tax — one of the Five Pillars of Islam. In Saudi Arabia's business context: a 2.5% annual levy on the Zakat base (broadly: net equity plus long-term liabilities) applied to the Saudi and GCC national-owned share of a business. Non-Muslim-owned and foreign-entity shares pay Corporate Income Tax (CIT) at 20% instead. In mixed-ownership companies, each ownership portion is taxed under its applicable regime. Administered by ZATCA. See tax guide →

Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (Arabic: هيئة الزكاة والضريبة والجمارك). Saudi Arabia's unified tax and customs authority. Administers: VAT (15%), Corporate Income Tax (20% on foreign-entity income), Zakat (2.5% on Saudi-owned business income), Withholding Tax (5–20% depending on payment type), Real Estate Transaction Tax (5%), customs duties, and Fatoorah e-invoicing compliance. All businesses with Saudi operations interact with ZATCA. Filing and payment portal: zatca.gov.sa. WHT must be remitted within 10 days of the month-end in which payment to a non-resident was made. See tax guide →