KSA Expats Blog
Practical Saudi guides, news updates and explainers for expats living and working in the Kingdom.
Saudi Arabia Iqama Fees 2026: Complete Guide
If you’re an expatriate living and working in Saudi Arabia, having a valid Iqama (residence permit) is essential. Without it, you cannot legally live, work, or access most…
What to Explore in Global City Dammam: A Complete Guide for Expats
If you’ve been living in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province, you’ve probably noticed that entertainment options haven’t always matched the variety found in Riyadh or Jeddah. That’s changing in…
Short Address in Saudi Arabia: How to Read and Get Your 8-Digit Code
If you’ve registered your Saudi National Address, you might have noticed a compact alphanumeric code alongside your full address details. This is your Short Address – a simplified…
How to Find Out How Many SIMs Are Registered Under Your Iqama
When did you last check how many SIM cards are registered under your Iqama? If the answer is “never,” you’re not alone — but it’s worth doing. Unauthorized…
Why Is Gold So Expensive Right Now? Expert Forecasts for 2026
Gold just had its best year since 1979, surging 66% in 2025. As of January 13, 2026, gold has reached over $4,600 per ounce—up 73% from this time…
Expatriates Working for Their Own Account Face Jail, Fine, and Deportation in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Public Security has announced that expatriates working for their own account in violation of residency and labor regulations face strict legal penalties under…
How to Register a National Address in Saudi Arabia Using the SPL App
What Is the National Address in Saudi Arabia? The National Address is an official address system in Saudi Arabia that uniquely identifies every residence and building using standardized…
Public Holidays in Saudi Arabia 2026
Saudi Arabia’s public holiday calendar in 2026 includes a mix of national days, religious festivals, and cultural observances. Religious festival dates are tentative and will be confirmed closer…
Driving in Saudi Arabia With an International or Foreign License: What Visitors Should Know
Visitors to Saudi Arabia are allowed to drive using an international or foreign driving license, provided specific conditions are met. The Saudi traffic authority has reiterated these requirements…
Gasoline Types in Saudi Arabia: What 91, 95, and 98 Mean for Your Vehicle
Fuel stations across the Kingdom currently offer two gasoline types—91 and 95—with 98-octane fuel launching soon to expand options based on vehicle needs and engine performance. This range…
Saudi Aramco to Introduce Gasoline 98 for High-Performance Vehicles
Saudi Aramco has announced plans to introduce a new fuel product, Gasoline (98), into the domestic market beginning early 2026. The move is part of efforts to meet…
Saudi Arabia Raises Saudization Rates in Engineering and Purchasing Jobs
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development said it has issued two decisions to raise localization (Saudization) rates across a number of specialized professions, according to…