If you’re planning removals to Saudi Arabia, one of the first questions you’ll face is: Which city should I live in? Saudi Arabia is a vast country, and the lifestyle can vary greatly depending on where you settle.
In this blog, we’ll explore the best cities in Saudi Arabia for expats, highlighting what makes each one unique. Whether you’re moving for work, family, or retirement, this guide will help you choose the right destination.
👉 For a complete relocation guide, including customs, shipping, and visas, see our main page: Removals to Saudi Arabia.
🏙️ Riyadh – The Business and Administrative Hub
- Capital city and largest urban area in Saudi Arabia.
- Home to government ministries, multinational corporations, and embassies.
- Popular with expats working in finance, IT, construction, and oil & gas.
- Lifestyle: modern shopping malls, international schools, and new housing developments.
- Downsides: strict cultural environment, traffic congestion, and extreme summer heat.
🌊 Jeddah – The Gateway to the Red Sea
- Located on the western coast, Jeddah is Saudi Arabia’s most cosmopolitan city.
- Known for its proximity to Mecca and Medina, but also popular for its Red Sea beaches and diving spots.
- More relaxed in lifestyle compared to Riyadh.
- Expats working in trade, logistics, and tourism often prefer Jeddah.
- A good choice for families due to its seaside location and diverse expat community.
⚓ Dammam – The Oil Industry Capital
- Part of the Eastern Province, alongside Khobar and Dhahran.
- The region is the heart of Saudi’s oil industry, attracting thousands of expats in engineering and energy.
- Connected to Bahrain via the King Fahd Causeway – great for weekend getaways.
- Lifestyle: modern infrastructure, expat compounds, and easy access to the Gulf coast.
🏖️ Al Khobar – The Family-Friendly Choice
- Another Eastern Province city, popular with families due to its high standard of living.
- Expat compounds offer Western-style housing with pools, gyms, and schools.
- Good mix of work opportunities, especially for professionals in oil, healthcare, and education.
- Shopping, waterfront dining, and proximity to Dammam and Bahrain make it a strong choice.
🌆 Medina & Mecca – Religious Cities
- These holy cities are less common for Western expats, but foreign workers in hospitality, healthcare, and construction are often based here.
- Strict religious environment – non-Muslims cannot enter certain areas.
✅ Choosing the Right City
When planning your relocation to Saudi Arabia, consider:
- Work opportunities (Riyadh = business, Dammam = oil, Jeddah = trade).
- Lifestyle preferences (beach life vs. city life).
- Family needs (schools, housing, expat compounds).
📌 Related Reading
- How Much Do Removals to Saudi Arabia Cost in 2025?
- Customs Clearance in Saudi Arabia: What You Need to Know
- A Step-by-Step Guide to Shipping Your Belongings to Saudi Arabia
👉 Wherever you decide to live, Advance Moves can help make your relocation smooth and stress-free. Get started today with an instant quote: Removals to Saudi Arabia.