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The Pros and Cons of Living in Major Cities of Saudi Arabia

Understanding Life in Major Cities of Saudi Arabia

Major cities in Saudi Arabia, such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, offer a unique blend of tradition and modernity, characterised by towering skyscrapers, bustling markets, and historical landmarks. Compared to other countries, Saudi cities offer a distinct lifestyle, with lower living costs due to government subsidies on utilities and tax-free income1. However, the hot desert climate and strict adherence to Islamic laws may pose challenges for some individuals. Key considerations when deciding to live in these cities include the strict dress code, the ban on alcohol, and the segregation of genders in public places. However, societal norms are gradually transforming under Vision 2030, making Saudi cities more open and attractive to expatriates. The cities boast modern amenities and facilities, with a high standard healthcare system and improving education options. Despite a low crime rate, high security measures are in place due to geopolitical risks. The economic landscape is rapidly evolving, with efforts to diversify the economy beyond oil, creating opportunities in sectors such as tourism, entertainment, and technology2.

Pros and Cons

Living in major Saudi cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam offers significant economic benefits. These urban hubs provide diverse job opportunities in sectors like oil and gas, finance, IT, and healthcare, attracting talent nationwide3. The average monthly salary in Riyadh is around SAR 16,300, higher than many other countries. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia’s tax-free income policy enhances these financial benefits.

However, these cities also present economic challenges. The cost of living, particularly housing, is high. Mercer’s 2020 Cost of Living Survey ranked Riyadh as the 31st most expensive city globally4. Additionally, the government’s Saudization policy, which prioritises hiring Saudi nationals, may limit job opportunities for expatriates.

Saudi Arabia’s heavy reliance on oil revenues also makes its economy vulnerable to global oil price fluctuations, impacting job security and living costs. As Dr. Fahad Al-Turki, Chief Economist at Jadwa Investment, highlights, “The challenge for Saudi cities is to create a more diversified and sustainable economy that can withstand global economic shocks.” Therefore, individuals should carefully consider these factors before deciding to live in a major Saudi city.

Cultural and Entertainment Opportunities

Saudi Arabia, renowned for its rich heritage, offers a myriad of cultural and entertainment opportunities in its major cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam5. In Riyadh, the National Museum and King Abdulaziz Historical centre provide insights into the country’s past, while the annual Janadriyah Festival celebrates Saudi heritage. Jeddah’s coastline offers a blend of modern and traditional entertainment, with the historic Al-Balad district and the Jeddah Season Festival being key attractions. Dammam, known for its vibrant arts scene, hosts art exhibitions, film screenings, and culinary events.

These opportunities not only enrich residents’ lives but also contribute to the economy, aligning with the “Economic Aspects: Pros and Cons” section. The Saudi government’s Vision 2030 initiative aims to diversify the economy, with the cultural and entertainment sectors playing a pivotal role6. The establishment of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA) has been instrumental in organising and developing the entertainment sector. The private sector, with companies like AMC and Vox Cinemas, has also contributed significantly by opening multiplexes and investing in luxury tourism projects. These initiatives have boosted the cultural landscape, created job opportunities, and attracted foreign investment.

Housing and Sustainability Measures

Major cities in Saudi Arabia, including Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, offer a diverse range of housing options, catering to various lifestyles and budgets7. These cities blend traditional and modern elements, creating a unique living environment rich in cultural and convenience. Housing options vary, from traditional villas to modern apartments and compounds. According to the General Authority for Statistics, urban housing units increased by 47.5% from 2004 to 2018, reflecting growing demand8.

The living environment in these cities is closely tied to the social life, cultural, and entertainment opportunities available. For instance, Riyadh is home to the King Abdulaziz Historical centre and the National Museum, while Jeddah offers a vibrant social scene with numerous cafes, restaurants, and shopping centres. Dammam, the capital of the Eastern Province, boasts beautiful parks and shopping centres.

The government’s Vision 2030 initiative plays a significant role in shaping the living environment in these cities. The initiative promotes cultural and entertainment activities and sustainable development, including the construction of eco-friendly housing and preservation of cultural heritage sites.

Measures and Crime Rates

Major cities in Saudi Arabia, including Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, have implemented stringent safety measures to ensure public security. These include advanced surveillance systems, well-trained police forces, and strict law enforcement. As security expert Dr. Ahmed Al-Salim notes, “Saudi Arabia’s security infrastructure is one of the most advanced in the region.”9

The Global Peace Index 2020 ranks Saudi Arabia 97th out of 163 countries, indicating a moderate level of safety. The country’s crime index of 26.18 is significantly lower than the global average of 47.61, a testament to the effectiveness of these measures.10

In addition to safety measures, Saudi Arabia’s cities also prioritise housing and sustainability initiatives, which indirectly contribute to safety. Affordable housing reduces socio-economic disparities, often linked to crime. Sustainability measures like waste management and green spaces contribute to societal well-being.

Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, a renowned Saudi expert, emphasises the importance of both safety measures and housing initiatives in maintaining a high standard of living. However, residents and visitors are advised to remain vigilant as petty crimes may still occur.

Health and Wellness Opportunities

Major cities in Saudi Arabia, including Riyadh and Jeddah, are witnessing a surge in health and wellness opportunities, driven by both government and private sector initiatives11. The government’s Vision 2030 plan, aimed at transforming the country’s economy and society, places a strong emphasis on promoting physical activity and improving overall health. This is evident through programmes like the “Healthy Cities” initiative, which seeks to improve residents’ well-being by providing accessible healthcare services and promoting healthy living.

Private sector participation is robust, with fitness centres, wellness clinics, and health food stores emerging to cater to the growing demand for fitness and wellness services. Companies like Fitness Time and Gold’s Gym have expanded their operations, offering state-of-the-art facilities and specialised programmes12.

These initiatives correlate significantly with safety and security measures. A healthier population is generally associated with lower crime rates, as individuals with good physical and mental health are less likely to engage in criminal activities. Furthermore, the presence of wellness facilities and the promotion of outdoor activities contribute to community safety by encouraging social interaction and community engagement.

Opportunities and Challenges

Major cities in Saudi Arabia, including Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, offer a diverse range of education options, from public and private schools to international schools and universities13. However, these opportunities must be juxtaposed with the challenges students face, particularly when compared to the ‘Quality of Life: Health and Wellness Opportunities’ section.

Despite Saudi Arabia’s 26th rank in the Global Health Security Index, only 5% of GDP is spent on education, compared to 8% on health. Overcrowded classrooms, with a student-teacher ratio of 12.3 in primary schools, and a heavy reliance on rote learning inhibit the development of critical thinking skills. Furthermore, only 13% of schools have sports facilities, contributing to sedentary lifestyles among students14.

The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed a digital divide, with 14% of students lacking access to a computer at home. This disparity exacerbates educational inequalities. Moreover, cultural norms and societal pressures limit female students’ opportunities, despite government efforts to increase female participation in education. These challenges need to be addressed to ensure equal opportunities for growth and development.

Housing, Transportation, and Food

Living in major cities of Saudi Arabia, such as Riyadh and Jeddah, can be costly, with housing, transportation, and food being the primary expenses. Housing costs can be high, with the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranging from SAR 1,500 to SAR 3,00015. Outside the city centre, the cost drops to around SAR 1,000 to SAR 2,000.

Transportation costs are relatively low due to subsidised fuel prices, with gasoline costing around SAR 2.18 per litre. Public transportation options are also available, with a monthly ticket costing around SAR 100.

Food expenses are moderate, with a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costing around SAR 30, and grocery costs for a single person ranging from SAR 300 to SAR 500 per month.

Dr. Abdullah Al-Mansour, a sociologist at King Saud University, states, “The cost of living in major cities can pose a challenge to accessing education, especially for those in the lower income brackets.”16 This highlights the direct impact of living costs on educational opportunities and challenges.

Industries and Job Prospects

Saudi Arabia’s major cities, including Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, are hubs for various thriving industries, offering a plethora of employment opportunities17. The government’s Vision 2030 initiative is instrumental in driving this economic diversification.

Riyadh, the capital, is a hotspot for finance, trade, and technology, with a booming IT sector. Jeddah, the commercial capital, offers opportunities in logistics, retail, and tourism, driven by a bustling retail industry and its strategic location as a gateway to holy cities. Dammam, known for its oil industry, provides lucrative prospects in the energy sector.

The cost of living in these cities, particularly housing, is relatively high, but the high salaries in sectors like IT, finance, and oil and gas often offset these costs18. The government ensures the cost of food remains stable across the country.

Healthcare and education are other expanding sectors, creating jobs for medical and educational professionals. The rapid growth of the IT and telecom sectors offer jobs for software developers, network engineers, and cybersecurity professionals. Thus, Saudi Arabia’s major cities present a diverse range of job prospects across various thriving industries.

Laws and Regulations

Saudi Arabia’s Real Estate Ownership Law allows both Saudi nationals and foreign investors to own property, stimulating growth in the construction and real estate sectors19. However, non-Saudi investors face certain restrictions. They must obtain a licence from the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA), aligning the property’s purpose with their licenced activity. Additionally, a minimum investment of SAR 30 million is required, although exceptions exist for GCC citizens.

Foreign ownership is prohibited in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, preserving their religious significance. The impact of these laws is substantial on the country’s job market. As the real estate sector expands, it creates a ripple effect of job prospects in construction, property management, and real estate brokerage.

However, the government’s Saudization policy, aiming to replace foreign workers with Saudi nationals, may deter foreign investment, potentially limiting job growth20. Balancing foreign investment attraction and promoting employment for Saudi nationals is crucial for maximising the real estate sector’s job creation potential.

Key Considerations

When deciding to live in a major city in Saudi Arabia, understanding the country’s real estate laws and regulations is paramount. These laws, recently liberalised, allow foreign individuals and companies to own properties, opening up opportunities for expatriates21. However, restrictions remain, notably for non-Muslims in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, and near military sites. Real estate expert, Dr. Ahmed Al-Sulaiman, advises consulting legal advisors to ensure compliance.

The cost of living, particularly housing, can be high in cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. Economist Sarah Al-Tamimi warns of competitive property markets and steep prices. Yet, the “White Land Tax” law, imposing a 2.5% annual tax on undeveloped urban land plots larger than 10,000 square metres, aims to encourage development and reduce property prices22.

Major cities offer numerous benefits, including access to amenities, job opportunities, and a vibrant social scene. However, potential challenges such as traffic congestion and a fast-paced lifestyle should be considered. Balancing these factors is crucial for making an informed decision.

Weighing the Pros and Cons of Living in Major Cities of Saudi Arabia

Living in major cities of Saudi Arabia, such as Riyadh, Jeddah, or Dammam, presents a unique blend of opportunities and challenges. These cities are economic powerhouses, offering abundant job opportunities in sectors like oil, construction, and finance23. They also boast a rich cultural heritage, high-quality healthcare, and excellent education opportunities. However, the cost of living can be high, particularly housing in popular expat areas. The extreme heat during summer can be overwhelming, and the societal norms may require some adjustment, particularly for Western expats.

When making the decision to move to a major city in Saudi Arabia, it is essential to consider key factors such as lifestyle, cost, and personal values. If career growth and access to top-notch infrastructure are top priorities, these cities can be a great fit. However, if cost of living is a concern or if a quieter lifestyle is preferred, smaller cities or towns may be more suitable.

Thorough research is crucial for anyone considering a move to a major Saudi city. Understanding the lifestyle, culture, and cost of living will help individuals make an informed decision. It is important to weigh the pros and cons, considering personal and professional goals. While data and statistics are valuable, personal preferences and comfort should also be taken into account.

In conclusion, living in major cities of Saudi Arabia offers numerous advantages such as access to top-notch healthcare, educational institutions, and abundant job opportunities. However, it is important to consider the high cost of living, fast-paced lifestyle, and potential challenges like traffic congestion and extreme weather conditions24. Individuals considering a move should carefully evaluate their priorities, lifestyle preferences, and financial capabilities. Researching and understanding the specific city’s culture, climate, and cost of living is crucial in making an informed decision. Each city has its unique charm and challenges, and it is important to find the right fit based on personal and professional goals.

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