KSA Expats Blog
Practical Saudi guides, news updates and explainers for expats living and working in the Kingdom.

Jawazat: Final Exit Visa Requires 30-Day Iqama Validity
The General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) has clarified the rules for issuing final exit visas to expatriates in Saudi Arabia. A minimum of 30 days of validity on…

How to Start a Business in Saudi Arabia as a Foreigner
Saudi Arabia has become a hotspot for foreign investors, offering a wealth of opportunities across diverse sectors. With its strategic location, strong economy, and the government’s Vision 2030…

Iqama Renewal for Dependents and Domestic Workers Possible from Abroad
The General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) has announced that expatriates’ dependents and domestic workers outside Saudi Arabia can now renew their residency permits (Iqama) through the online platforms…

Saudi Traffic Law Now Penalizes Driving with Expired Istimara
Saudi Arabia has amended its Traffic Law, making it a violation to drive a vehicle with an expired registration (Istimara). The amendment was approved during a Cabinet session…

Where Do Riyadh Metro Trains Go After Midnight?
Have you ever wondered what happens to the Riyadh Metro trains after midnight? Do the trains “sleep”? This question has intrigued many since the launch of this massive…

How to Register for the Tawakkalna App: A Step-by-Step Guide
The Tawakkalna app has become an essential part of life in Saudi Arabia. Originally launched as a COVID-19 tracking tool, the app has now evolved into a complete digital companion…

How to Buy a Riyadh Metro Darb Card
If you’re planning to explore Riyadh using the metro, getting a Darb Card is a must! It’s your key to convenient and hassle-free travel across the city’s public transport system.…

Absher Launches New Service to Report Absconding Visit Visa Holders
The Ministry of Interior’s Absher platform has introduced a new service that enables residents to report cases of visit visa holders absconding after their visas have expired. This…

Riyadh Marathon 2025: How to Register, Race Details, and Key Information
The Riyadh Marathon is back for its 4th edition, set to take place on February 8, 2025 in the vibrant capital of Saudi Arabia. Organized by the Saudi Sports for All…

GOSI Work Injury Benefits for Expats in Saudi Arabia
As an expat working in Saudi Arabia, it’s important to understand what work injuries are and how they are handled under the General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI). Work injuries…

WhatsApp Adds Built-In Document Scanning for iPhone Users
WhatsApp has introduced a new document scanning feature for iPhone users, allowing to scan documents directly using the app’s built-in camera. This eliminates the need for external scanning…

Flyadeal Announces Flights to Karachi Starting February 2025
Saudi Arabia’s low-cost airline, flyadeal, has announced plans to launch scheduled flights to Pakistan’s largest city, Karachi, beginning February 2, 2025. This marks the airline’s first entry into…

