Saudi Arabia

Monthly cost of living

Visa processing time (days)

Rent index (2020 = 100)

Tax on average salary (€60,000)

Savings by experience level

Income Tax Brackets (Single Filer)

0% personal income tax

+ 2.0% social contributions on gross income

Source: GAZT (Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority) · 2026

Tax Notes

• Zero personal income tax for individuals.
• GOSI (social insurance): 2% employee contribution for expats (occupational hazards only).
• Saudi nationals pay 10% GOSI (pension + hazards).
• 15% VAT on goods and services.
• 20% corporate tax on foreign-owned businesses.
• Zakat (2.5%) applies to Saudi/GCC-owned businesses instead of corporate tax.

• Riyadh, Jeddah, and NEOM are major growth centers.
• Tech, construction, healthcare, and entertainment expanding rapidly.
• Saudization quotas affect hiring in some sectors.

Mandatory employer-provided insurance

English common in business; Arabic helpful

• Compounds popular for expat families.
• Annual rent payment common (negotiable to quarterly).
• Ejar platform for rental contract registration.

• Foreign ownership now allowed in designated areas.
• Mortgage market developing but still limited.
• Off-plan projects carry completion risk.

• Fake recruitment agencies charging visa fees.
• Unlicensed housing agents.
• Counterfeit qualification verification services.

• Verify employer through HRSD portal.
• Use official university admissions channels.
• Check agent licensing with relevant ministry.

Utilities to set up

• 1SEC (electricity) connection
• 2Water authority registration
• 3Internet (STC, Mobily, or Zain)
• 4Absher account setup

First 30 days

• 1Complete Iqama (residence permit) process
• 2Open Saudi bank account
• 3Register on Absher platform
• 4Get Saudi driving license
• 5Set up mobile phone and internet