Living and Working in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia provides top salaries along with an immersive middle eastern cultural experience. Many expats choose to live in Riyadh, the capital city. There you can find a large selection of busy restaurants, parks, and coffee shops.

Teachers that live in Saudi Arabia can enjoy socializing in large western compounds where many expats live. A healthy work/life balance is important, and teachers living in Saudi Arabia enjoy a quiet life, joining group activities and doing lots of traveling. Many expat families choose Saudi Arabia because it is very family-oriented and a very safe place to live.

Teaching Benefits

Teaching in Saudi Arabia comes along with a wealth of benefits along with a lucrative salary. Most international schools offer:

  • Housing
  • Medical Benefits
  • Annual Return Flights to your home country
  • Tuition for school-aged children
  • A Tax-Free Salary
  • End-of-Contract Bonus

Local Culture

The local religion is Islam. Locals first language is Arabic, though English is widely used. Liquor is completely prohibited and that is a noticeable difference between western culture and life in Saudi Arabia. Also, women should be prepared for dress code restrictions which include covering shoulders and knees at all times. Many expats live in western expat communities, where they can socialize and dress more casually.

Getting Paid (How often, currency, sending money home)

Most schools in Saudi Arabia will offer automated bank payments directly into your local bank account. You will be paid in Saudi Riyal(SR).