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

Temporary Hajj Jobs: MHRSD Invites Saudis and Residents to Apply
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) has launched the “Hajj Ajeer” or Hajj Worker service, allowing businesses to hire temporary workers during this Hajj season.…

Jawazat Clarifies Iqama Renewal Rules Based on Existing ID Validity
In a recent response to a user query, the Saudi Jawazat (General Directorate of Passports) has provided further clarification on the rules for renewing residency permits, known as…

Iqama Renewal for Expats Outside the Kingdom – Jawazat Clarifies
The General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) in Saudi Arabia has clarified that the residence permits (iqamas) of expatriates outside the kingdom can be renewed through the Absher business…

Saudi Arabia Announces 50% Discount on Traffic Fines
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior has announced a 50% reduction in the payment of accumulated traffic fines incurred before April 18, 2024. This reduction follows the directives of…

Saudi Arabia to Waive Government Fees for Displaced Citizens from Neighbouring Countries
In a significant move aimed at supporting displaced citizens from neighboring countries, Saudi Arabia has announced a groundbreaking decision to cover government fees for individuals permitted to stay…

Smart Golf Carts Introduced for Tawaf at the Grand Mosque During Ramadan
The General Authority for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques has unveiled a new initiative to enhance the pilgrimage experience for elderly and special needs pilgrims during…

Saudi Arabia Announces Eid Al-Fitr Holiday for Private Sector
In a recent announcement, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development in Saudi Arabia has declared a four-day holiday for the private and non-profit sectors in the…

Fines Up to 1 Million Riyals for Hiring Workers Without Jobs
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development aims to criminalize the act of recruiting professional and domestic workers without a job with the employer. Those found involved…

Foreign Students in Saudi Can Now Work Part-Time and Invite Family
Saudi Arabia is now permitting those with long-term student visas to engage in part-time employment within the country. This significant change will allow international students to offset their…

Saudi Arabia Reviews Expat Dependent Fee: FM
In a recent interview on the Thamanya podcast, Saudi Arabia’s Finance Minister, Mohammed Al-Jadaan, shared some insightful updates on the government’s current financial policies, particularly about expatriates living…

How to Know If Your Iqama Is Issued and How to Find Your Iqama Number
If you are new to Saudi Arabia and waiting for your first Iqama, you can easily check whether it has been issued online. This guide explains a simple…

Passport and Iqama Validity Requirements for Exit/Re-Entry Visa Issuance
Expat residents in Saudi Arabia need an exit re-entry visa for temporary departure from the kingdom. This type of visa can be obtained electronically through the Absher or…

