Visas & ResidencyRiyadh
How to Obtain Residency in Saudi Arabia
Understand the Iqama, the Premium Residency programme and the newer talent and investor visa options.
8 min readUpdated 24 Oct 2026
City guide · Saudi Arabia
Living in Riyadh
The capital and corporate centre of Saudi Arabia, home to new regional headquarters.
Cost of living
Compare with another city| Item | SAR | USD |
|---|---|---|
| 1-bed apartment (city centre) | SAR 5,063 | $1,350 |
| 3-bed apartment (family area) | SAR 10,875 | $2,900 |
| Utilities (monthly) | SAR 563 | $150 |
| Groceries (single, monthly) | SAR 2,100 | $560 |
| Dinner for two (mid-range) | SAR 1,238 | $330 |
| Transport (monthly) | SAR 1,125 | $300 |
| International school (yearly) | SAR 4,875 | $1,300 |
| Private health insurance (monthly) | SAR 713 | $190 |
Neighbourhoods
Al Malqa
midNewer northern district with villas, cafes and schools.
Best for: Families
Schools: Kingdom Schools, Al Hokail International
Family friendly88Lifestyle76- Studio / mo
- $900
- 1-bed / mo
- $1,300
- 3-bed / mo
- $3,200
- To centre
- ~25 min
Al Nakheel
midEstablished district near King Saud University and the metro.
Best for: Value near the centre
Schools: Manarat Al Riyadh, Riyadh Schools
Family friendly82Lifestyle70- Studio / mo
- $750
- 1-bed / mo
- $1,050
- 3-bed / mo
- $2,500
- To centre
- ~15 min
Al Olaya
midCentral business district with apartments and malls.
Best for: Professionals
Schools: International schools nearby in Al Malqa and Al Nakheel
Family friendly66Lifestyle84- Studio / mo
- $1,000
- 1-bed / mo
- $1,400
- 3-bed / mo
- $3,000
- To centre
- ~10 min
Diplomatic Quarter
premiumGreen, secure district with embassies and compounds.
Best for: Families and diplomats
Schools: British International School Riyadh (DQ), American International School
Family friendly94Lifestyle70- Studio / mo
- $1,400
- 1-bed / mo
- $2,000
- 3-bed / mo
- $4,200
- To centre
- ~20 min
Riyadh guides