An Insight
Saudi Arabia has emerged to be one of the wealthiest nations in the region remarkably because of its vast oil resources. Today it is known as one of the most economically advanced nations in the world.

There are many myths about what it is like to live and work in Saudi Arabia. While it is true that the culture in the Kingdom is very different from what particularly Asians, Europeans or Westerners are accustomed with, and there are rules and laws governing human behavior, Saudi Arabia provides for a safe and ambient working & living environment.

Saudi Arabia is governed through the principles of Shari’ah which are set out in the Qur’an, the holy book of Islam. It is expected that anyone interested in pursuing employment opportunities in the Kingdom understands the basic principles of Islamic Laws.

By understanding the people, religion, culture and society, you will be better prepared for your new experience in the Kingdom. You will get far more out of your stay, and whether you find work yourself in Saudi or are sponsored by your employer to relocate to the Kingdom, you can expect an adventure, a challenge and a completely new way of life during your time in the country.

For an expatriate employee to enter the Kingdom he has to be sponsored by an employer. The low cost of living and no personal taxation are attractions to expatriate employees to pursue employment in Saudi Arabia.

There are between five and six million foreign residents living and working in Saudi. Because there is little for people to spend their money on there is an awful lot of disposable income to go around for spending on social events, shopping, diving trips, tennis lessons, etc. And most of those who come to work in Saudi Arabia find that they enjoy an excellent overall quality of life.

If you have secured employment in Saudi Arabia and have your sponsorship in place, you will be required to present your passport, which must be valid for at least 6 months, your employment visa and also a medical certificate on arrival. Your visa will have a period of validity and you must enter the country within that period.

Further documentation required to enter the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for work include the following, the list is not necessarily exhaustive and is subject to change. Your employer or employment agency will provide you with the most up to date requirement list: -

 Authorization to enter the country from the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs

 A medical certificate from a recognized medical authority

  Your letter of sponsorship from your employer which should be dated and have your visa number on it

 Your employment contract from the Saudi Arabian employer.

 A police clearance certificate

 Copies of all your relevant academic qualifications and any relevant work experience for the job you’re about to accept.

 And if you have been working previously in Saudi Arabia you will have to obtain a “letter of no objection” from your previous employer which basically proves that you have been released amicably from your previous contract.

With all the above requirements met, the in- Kingdom process is fairly straightforward and shortly after entering the country and taking up your assignment you will very well settle into your new life.

Go with the right attitude, accept and embrace the tradition and culture of the country, respect the laws and religion in Saudi Arabia and be prepared to have the time of your life for the duration of your contract. If you go with a completely open mind and a strong resolve, you will get all you can from the experience.