Housing is one of the biggest factors to consider when planning your living expenses in the Kingdom. Expats have a wide range of choices depending on their lifestyle, family size, and budget when it comes to housing in Saudi Arabia. Whether you’re new to living in Saudi Arabia as an expat or relocating within the Kingdom, understanding your options helps you plan better.
| Type | Description | Common Areas |
| Apartments (Flats) | Most popular
for expat housing in Saudi Arabia; available furnished or unfurnished |
Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam |
| Villas | Ideal for families; more space and privacy | Compounds, residential zones |
| Compounds (Gated Communities) | Include swimming pools, gyms, and playgrounds; highly secure and preferred for expat accommodation in Riyadh | Diplomatic Quarter, Al Khobar, North Riyadh |
| Shared Accommodation | Budget-friendly option for singles or short stays | Central city areas, near offices or industrial zones |
Tip: Check if rent includes utilities and maintenance before signing.
Rental Process (Step-by-Step)
Once you’ve decided on the type of home that fits your needs, the next step is knowing where and how to find it. Finding and renting in Saudi Arabia follows a smooth process if you use these following channels:
- Search: Browse real estate apps or contact local agents (Aqar, Bayut, Property Finder).
- Visit: Inspect the property personally — check water pressure, air conditioning, and security.
- Negotiate: Discuss rent, contract terms, and what’s included (like parking or Wi-Fi).
- Sign Contract: Through the official Ejar System (Saudi government rental registration).
- Pay Rent: Usually yearly or quarterly via bank transfer.
Tip: Never pay cash without a registered Ejar contract — it’s your legal proof of tenancy.
Ejar (Rental Registration System)
Ejar is the official & major online platform of the Ministry of Housing in Saudi Arabia, ensuring legal protection for both tenants and landlords. All rental contracts must be digitally registered under your Iqama.
Visit: www.ejar.sa
Tip: You can access your Ejar details through Absher → Services → Housing → Ejar Contracts.
Average Rent Prices (2026)
| City | 1BHK Rent Range | 2BHK Rent Range | Villa/Compound Rent Range |
| Riyadh | 18,000–30,000 SAR | 25,000–45,000 SAR | 60,000–120,000 SAR |
| Jeddah | 20,000–35,000 SAR | 30,000–50,000 SAR | 70,000–130,000 SAR |
| Dammam/Khobar | 15,000–28,000 SAR | 25,000–40,000 SAR | 50,000–100,000 SAR |
If you’re looking for expat housing in Riyadh, expect slightly higher rent in central areas or compounds, while the suburbs offer more affordable choices.
Tip: Prices vary depending on location, furnishing, and nearby facilities.
Essential Guide to Housing in Saudi Arabia for Expats
Furnished vs. Unfurnished
Apartments that are furnished come ready with furniture, kitchen appliances, and sometimes Wi-Fi — ideal for short-term stays or newcomers adjusting to living in Saudi Arabia as an expat.
Unfurnished homes are cheaper in the long run and suitable for long-term residents.
If you plan a long stay, go for unfurnished — it’s more cost-effective over time.
Utilities & Maintenance
Most tenants handle:
- Electricity: se.com.sa
- Water: City Municipality
- Internet: STC, Mobily, or Zain
Tip: Register utilities in your name after signing the Ejar contract to avoid billing issues — a common oversight among new expats renting in Saudi Arabia.
Rights & Responsibilities
Tenant Rights:
- You have the right to receive a copy of the registered Ejar contract.
- Timely maintenance must be provided for significant repairs.
- Receipts for rent and deposit payments must be given to you.
Tenant Duties:
- Pay rent on time.
- Avoid making structural changes without permission.
- Return the property in good condition when leaving.
Tip: Take pictures before moving in — this protects you when you move out.
Leaving or Changing Accommodation
When ending your rental contract:
- Before moving, make sure to notify your landlord 30–60 days in advance.
- Once notice is given, clear all utility and service bills.
- You should also obtain written confirmation that your Ejar contract is officially closed.
- Finally, remember to cancel or transfer your utility accounts.
If you’re shifting between cities, such as from Dammam to Riyadh, plan early since expat accommodation in Riyadh can be in high demand during peak relocation seasons.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Renting without an Ejar contract (no legal protection)
- Paying a full year’s rent in cash without a receipt
- Ignoring maintenance terms in your lease
- Forgetting to update your Iqama address after moving
Quick Arabic Words Helpful for Housing in Saudi Arabia
| English | Arabic | Pronunciation |
| Apartment | شقة | Shaqqah |
| Villa | فيلا | Feella |
| Rent | إيجار | Ijaar |
| Contract | عقد | Aqd |
| Landlord | مالك | Malik |
Saudi Arabia Reshapes Real Estate: New Ownership Law and Rent Freeze Announced
- New Property Ownership Law (2026): Saudi Arabia will soon allow foreign nationals to own property in designated zones across key cities like Riyadh and Jeddah — a major shift aimed at attracting global investors.
- Five-Year Rent Freeze in Riyadh: To curb rising housing costs, the government has announced a rent freeze for both residential and commercial properties, effective from September 2025.
- Goal: These twin reforms reflect the Kingdom’s effort to balance foreign investment with housing stability, supporting Vision 2030’s push for a modern, investor-friendly real estate market.
Start Your Life in the Kingdom with Confidence and Compliance
Finding the proper expat housing in Saudi Arabia takes a bit of research, but with major platforms like Ejar and professional help, the process is simple. Whether you choose a modern apartment in Jeddah or a gated expat compound in Riyadh, understanding the process helps you settle in comfortably.
- Register your rental through Ejar
- Make sure all contracts and payments are verified.
- Know your rights as a tenant
A well-chosen home makes living in Saudi Arabia as an expat smooth, secure, and enjoyable — your perfect start to life in the Kingdom.
