KSA Expats Blog
Practical Saudi guides, news updates and explainers for expats living and working in the Kingdom.
Saudi Arabia’s 5 Busiest Domestic Air Routes Revealed
Saudi Arabia’s domestic air travel is booming, with millions of seats offered every year on popular routes between major cities. According to Aviation enthusiasts (عشاق عالم الطيران @AviationWG) on X,…
Buying or selling a car in Saudi Arabia? Marjea now helps you know its real value
Buying or selling a car in Saudi Arabia just got easier. The Saudi Authority for Accredited Valuers (Taqeem) has launched “Marjea,” a new digital platform that helps people know the…
GCC to Launch Single Tourist Visa in Q4 2025 for All Gulf Countries
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) will roll out the pilot phase of its long-awaited unified tourist visa — officially called the GCC Grand Tourist Visa — in the fourth quarter of 2025. Modeled after Europe’s Schengen…
HRSD Allows Workers Reported “Absent from Work” to Transfer Sponsorship
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) has introduced a new initiative, effective September 18, 2025, through the Qiwa platform, enabling professional workers who were previously reported as “absent from work” to…
What to Do If Your Insurance Claim Is Denied: A Complete Guide
In today’s fast-moving world, insurance plays a crucial role in safeguarding both people and their belongings. Whether it’s health insurance, car insurance, or property insurance, people rely on…
Saudi Arabia launches fourth phase of wage transfer service for domestic workers
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) has announced the launch of the fourth phase of the electronic wage transfer service for domestic workers through officially…
Crown Prince Orders 5-Year Freeze on Rent Hikes in Riyadh
In a major move to stabilize the rental market, Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman has directed the implementation of new regulations that freeze rental…
SAMA Announces Official Holidays and Working Hours for Banks Until 2029
The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) has published the official holidays and working hours for financial institutions under its supervision, as well as for the Saudi Instant Payment System…
Fine of Up to SAR 20,000 for Unlicensed Passenger Transport and Soliciting Passengers
The Saudi Transport Authority has announced strict penalties against individuals engaged in unlicensed passenger transport and soliciting passengers in public places. The move comes under the provisions of…
Saudi Arabia to Deport Expats for Serious Traffic Violations Under New Law
Key Points Saudi Arabia’s Council of Ministers has approved amendments to the Traffic Law that introduce deportation for expatriates who commit serious traffic offenses. Under the new regulations,…
Saudi Arabia public decency laws and penalties: Complete guide for residents and visitors
Saudi Arabia has established comprehensive public decency laws that apply to all residents and visitors in public places. These regulations cover everything from dress codes and behavior standards…
Commercial concealment violations in Saudi Arabia: What expats need to know
Saudi Arabia’s Anti-Commercial Concealment Program, known as Tasattur in Arabic, targets illegal business arrangements between Saudi citizens and foreign nationals. Understanding these violations is crucial for expats to…