Living in Saudi Arabia: Riyadh Housing, School Fees & Cost of Living

Itemized cost of living in Saudi Arabia: North Riyadh compound vs apartment rents, international school tuition fees, CCHI health insurance, and monthly budgets.

Primary Decisions & Pathways

Rent an apartment in Riyadh & model move-in costs

Ejar lease process, 5-year rent freeze rules, broker commission caps, and upfront move-in cashflow planner.

Plan your family’s monthly living budget in Riyadh

Benchmark monthly living costs: compound housing, international schooling, groceries, utilities, and mobility.

Find the right Riyadh neighborhood to live in

Expat district guide comparing Al-Nakheel, Al-Malqa, Diplomatic Quarter, and North Riyadh communities.

Choose between a compound and a private apartment

Compare rental costs, community amenities, lease flexibility, and security between housing options.

Compare international school fees & tuition allowances

Tuition fee benchmarks for British, American, and IB schools in Riyadh, and standard employer allowance packages.

Understand health insurance rules & medical coverage

Mandatory Council of Health Insurance (CHI) regulations, insurance policy classes, and private hospital networks.

How expats can buy real estate in Saudi Arabia

Absher real estate purchase permits, 5% Real Estate Transaction Tax (RETT), and title deed registration.