Moving to Saudi Arabia from the US is an exciting opportunity, but it requires careful planning. From international shipping and customs clearance to documentation and cultural preparation, every detail matters. Earthrelo provides full-service relocation support, ensuring your move is cost-effective, compliant, and stress-free.
Adapting to the Conservative culture of the country is generally the only difficult thing for several expats moving to Saudi Arabia from US. That said, if you are planning for an overseas move to Saudi Arabia from the US, this guide is all you need. Before shipping your belongings and goods, make sure you connect with the leading and professional team of packers and movers to ensure the safe shipping of goods without damage.
If you are planning to relocate to Saudi Arabia, we are here to assist you with every step of your international relocation right from packing to delivering. Having served limitless clients, we are the international US to Saudi Arabia Movers that are committed to providing an incredible set of relocation services. That said, here is a comprehensive country guide for you about Saudi Arabia. Without further ado, let’s delve into Saudi!
For many Americans, moving to Saudi Arabia is both a professional and personal opportunity. The Kingdom has become one of the world’s most dynamic destinations for expats, offering career growth, tax advantages, and a modern lifestyle balanced with cultural traditions. If you are considering moving to Saudi Arabia from the US, here are some of the key reasons people make the transition.
Saudi Arabia’s economy is growing rapidly, with strong demand for skilled workers in industries such as oil and gas, healthcare, construction, and education. Major initiatives like Vision 2030 are also fueling opportunities in technology, tourism, and finance. Professionals relocating from the US often find competitive salaries, long-term contracts, and the chance to work on large-scale projects that can enhance their careers.
One of the most appealing aspects of moving to Saudi Arabia is its tax system. The country does not impose personal income tax on salaries, which allows expats to save a significant portion of their earnings. This benefit, combined with employer-provided housing allowances and other incentives, makes relocating particularly attractive for Americans seeking financial stability and growth.
Adjusting to a new culture is easier when there are established communities to support you. Riyadh, the capital, and Jeddah, the main port city, are home to large expat populations from the US and around the world. These communities provide social networks, international schools, and familiar services, helping newcomers feel more at home while they adapt to Saudi life.
Saudi Arabia’s major cities offer modern infrastructure, high-quality healthcare facilities, luxury shopping malls, and diverse dining options. Expats also benefit from well-developed housing options, ranging from secure compounds with Western amenities to upscale apartments in city centers. For those moving to Saudi Arabia with families, access to international schools and recreational activities further adds to the quality of life.
When planning an international relocation, one of the biggest steps is arranging safe and reliable shipping. Shipping household goods to Saudi Arabia requires attention to detail, as the country has strict customs regulations and specific import requirements. With Earthrelo’s experienced team, the process becomes far less stressful. We handle packing, transportation, and customs paperwork, so your belongings arrive safely at your new home in Saudi Arabia.
Transit times vary depending on whether you choose sea or air freight. Ocean freight is the most common option and typically takes 6 to 10 weeks from the US to ports such as Jeddah or Dammam. Air freight is much faster, often just 1 to 2 weeks, but it is significantly more expensive. Earthrelo provides realistic timelines and tracking updates so you can plan your arrival with confidence.
Earthrelo’s experts help you decide the best option based on your shipment size, budget, and timeline.
The desert climate in Saudi Arabia can be harsh on sensitive items. To protect your shipment:
Earthrelo’s professional packing services use export-grade materials designed for long ocean voyages and extreme temperatures.
Saudi customs enforces strict regulations. Items you cannot ship include:
Attempting to import prohibited items can result in confiscation, fines, or delays. Earthrelo carefully reviews your inventory to ensure compliance and prevent issues at customs.
Planning a budget is one of the most important steps when relocating overseas. The cost of moving to Saudi Arabia from the US depends on several factors, including shipment size, container type, destination city, and service level. While every move is unique, understanding the main cost drivers and typical price ranges helps you prepare with confidence. Earthrelo provides clear, all-inclusive quotes so you know exactly what to expect—no hidden surprises.
Shipment Size and Weight: Larger households that require a full container will cost more than smaller moves using shared space.
Destination City: Shipping to major ports such as Jeddah, Dammam, or Riyadh is generally more cost-effective than inland destinations.
Service Type: Full-service moves with packing, delivery, and unpacking are convenient but add to the overall cost.
Customs Duties and Taxes: Depending on your visa type and imported items, you may face import duties or restrictions.
Mode of Transport: Ocean freight is standard, but faster air freight comes at a much higher cost.
Here are typical ranges for moving from the US to Saudi Arabia:
| Move Size | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Studio or 1-Bedroom (LCL) | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| 2–3 Bedroom Home (20’ Container) | $6,500 – $11,000 |
| 4+ Bedroom Home (40’ Container) | $10,000 – $15,000 |
These are average estimates. Costs may vary based on services, origin location, and customs requirements.
When planning an international relocation, preparing the correct paperwork is just as important as arranging shipping. Saudi Arabia has strict entry and customs requirements, and missing documents can delay your move or lead to fines. If you’re moving to Saudi Arabia from the US, having the right documents in order will make the entire process smoother. Earthrelo’s specialists guide clients step by step, helping avoid complications and ensuring compliance.
Healthcare in Saudi is excellent yet expensive. Public healthcare is outstanding and free for every Saudi citizen. However, expats cannot enjoy this public facility. Being a foreigner, expats need to opt for private healthcare by taking private healthcare insurance in Saudi. Usually, private health insurance is mandatory for expats and is provided by the employer. Besides being costly, you can rest assured that you will receive excellent healthcare with zero waiting lists. However, expats working for the government can access the public healthcare sector. Language is not a barrier as most doctors are foreigners communicating in English.
The 3 major urban cities own incredible medical, hospital, and healthcare facilities. Medications are vastly available at the clinics. However, bear in mind what you cannot carry to the country unless you have a prescription. Antidepressants, tranquilizers, and sleeping pills are highly controlled here. Usual health hazards involve respiratory problems, heat exhaustion, and choking dust storms. Having an excellent healthcare reputation in the entire Middle East, the medical facilities match with the US and European clinics in the cities of Jeddah and Riyadh.
For all non-Saudis, Health insurance became mandatory in 2005. They should renew it before requesting a new iqama(residential permit). Although you can get basic health insurance in your expat package, many residents take extra coverage. For newborns and infants, the basic vaccines are available free of charge.
There are no shortages of accommodation and renting for expats in Saudi unless you look for a cheaper place to stay in. Most of the newly built accommodation offers a higher price range. With the increase in urban population, there are a lot of construction projects going on. Most of the expats live in a low-rise apartment community. The luxurious communities consist of tennis courts, a gym, swimming pool, shops, restaurants, and children’s playground. The apartments are well-grounded and spacious.
Relocating internationally involves many moving parts, and it’s easy to overlook critical steps. A clear plan will keep your move organized and stress-free. This Move to Saudi Arabia checklist highlights the most important tasks to complete before, during, and after your relocation. Following it ensures a smoother transition and helps you settle in quickly once you arrive.
Education in Saudi is free of cost in gender-segregated primary, intermediate, and secondary schools. The study of Islam dominates the entire education system at all levels. It is a compulsory subject at the university level as well. The instruction medium is Arabic although English is considered as a second language. Emphasizing entirely on religious studies, the education system has crashed to a great extent. It has failed to provide marketable and technical skills to young Saudis. However, the government is taking steps to improve the education system.
Schooling in Saudi involves two methods: Private and International.
Foreign children cannot opt for Local schools but private schools. Many times, private schools are governed by the government to make sure it matches the education standards and curriculum of the state schools. One exceptional advantage of a private school for expats is the limitations. The language of instruction will be in English and classes will be co-educational. Expat families moving to Saudi Arabia from the US opt for international schools which are situated in the cities of Al-Khobar, Jeddah, and Riyadh. Some of the international schools follow Indian, British, American, and Pakistani curricula. The International schools affiliated with the Saudi government do not accept third-country students but have pre-school, primary, and secondary all under one roof.
Pro tip: Respecting religion comes first. You need to have a huge adapting and flexible ability in case you are not a part of a restrictive and Conservative society. Everything takes place according to the teachings of the Quran. Expats are highly expected to comply with the rules of living.
Under few estimates, Riyadh is an expensive place to reside due to its hydrocarbon-dependent economy. Compared to the rest of the middle east countries, Saudi has a high cost of living in some cities. Maximum expats owning incredible employment agreements include the cost of healthcare, relocation, housing, schooling, etc. Below is a quick breakdown of the costs of living in Saudi Arabia.
| GOOD/SERVICE | AVERAGE SARS | AVERAGE US DOLLARS |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at inexpensive restaurant | 20.00﷼ | $15.00 |
| Loaf of bread | 2.80﷼ | $2.73 |
| Rice (1kg) | 7.39﷼ | $3.98 |
| Domestic beer | 6.05﷼ | $2.50 |
| One way ticket | 3.00﷼ | $2.25 |
| Water(0.33 liter) | 0.90﷼ | $1.54 |
| Milk (1 liter) | 5.23﷼ | $0.86 |
| Eggs (12) | 7.98﷼ | $2.30 |
| Internet( 60 Mbps, unlimited data) | 256.84﷼ | $66.00 |
Saudi Arabia is undeniably an incredible expat destination amidst having tons of restrictions. However, moving to Saudi Arabia from US is what it all takes. If you are worried about how to carry your goods to Saudi Arabia, reach out to us today at US to Saudi Arabia Movers. We offer an excellent set of relocation services apart from calculating all the significant custom processes.
Our moving company in US provides packing, shipping, unpacking, etc at competitive and cost-effective rates. Being a licensed and certified US To Saudi Arabia Mover, our team of experts is committed to providing quality services to assist you to move to Saudi Arabia from US. Allow us to help you by giving us a call today to move across the country effortlessly and efficiently thus saving your energy and time.
Jeddah, a major port city on Saudi Arabia's Red Sea coast, is known for its historical significance, vibrant arts scene, and as a gateway for pilgrims traveling to Mecca.
Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is a rapidly growing metropolis known for its modern skyscrapers, cultural landmarks, and role as the political and economic center of the country.
Makkah, the holiest city in Islam, is a spiritual center that attracts millions of pilgrims from around the world each year for the Hajj and Umrah.
Medina, the second holiest city in Islam, is revered as the resting place of the Prophet Muhammad and the site of the Prophet's Mosque, Al-Masjid an-Nabawi.
Dammam, a major city in Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province, is known for its strategic location along the Arabian Gulf, serving as a key industrial and commercial hub.
The cost of moving to Saudi Arabia from US varies depending on shipment size, destination city, and service type. Smaller shipments can start at around $3,000, while full household moves in a 40-foot container may cost $10,000–$15,000. Customs duties and optional services like packing and storage can add to the total. Earthrelo provides transparent, personalized quotes, helping families and professionals budget accurately for their relocation without hidden charges.
When moving to Saudi Arabia from US, you’ll need a valid passport with at least six months’ validity, a visa that matches your purpose (such as work or family), and a sponsorship contract. Customs requires a detailed packing inventory, bill of lading, and authorization for clearance agents. Additional records like school transcripts and medical documents are often needed. Earthrelo assists clients with document review and customs paperwork, ensuring smooth compliance with Saudi regulations.
Shipping times when moving to Saudi Arabia from US usually range from six to ten weeks by ocean freight. Air freight is faster, averaging one to two weeks, but it is more expensive. Transit times depend on origin port, destination city, and customs clearance speed. Earthrelo provides realistic delivery timelines, professional tracking, and proactive updates throughout the journey, giving you confidence that your belongings will arrive safely and on schedule.
Yes, it is possible to bring pets when moving to Saudi Arabia from US, but you must meet strict import rules. Dogs and cats generally require a health certificate, proof of rabies vaccination, and import permits. Airlines also have specific travel requirements. Because these rules can be complex, Earthrelo guides pet owners through each step, ensuring compliance with Saudi authorities so pets can relocate safely and join you in your new home.
Saudi Arabia enforces strict import restrictions. Prohibited items when moving to Saudi Arabia from US include alcohol, pork products, religious materials not related to Islam, pornography, and certain electronics. Shipping these items can result in confiscation, penalties, or delays at customs. To protect your relocation, Earthrelo reviews your shipment list in advance, flags restricted goods, and ensures your household inventory complies fully with Saudi regulations for a safe and seamless move.
Yes, all Americans moving to Saudi Arabia from US require a visa. Visa categories include work, family, and business visas, each with specific sponsorship requirements. Once in the country, you’ll also need a residency permit (Iqama). While Earthrelo does not process visas, we coordinate shipment timelines with your visa approval, so your belongings arrive when you are legally ready to enter Saudi Arabia, reducing stress and ensuring a smooth transition.
Safety is a common concern for expats moving to Saudi Arabia from US. Major cities such as Riyadh and Jeddah have well-developed infrastructure, secure housing compounds, and large international communities where many Americans live comfortably. While cultural differences require adjustment, most expats find day-to-day life safe when following local laws and customs. Earthrelo contributes to peace of mind by shipping belongings securely and ensuring they are delivered directly to your residence.
The best international movers for moving to Saudi Arabia from US are companies with proven expertise in global relocations, strong logistics networks, and customs knowledge. Earthrelo stands out by offering full-service solutions including packing, shipping, customs clearance, and door-to-door delivery. With tailored moving plans and transparent pricing, our team ensures your relocation is seamless from start to finish, giving you the confidence that your move is managed by trusted professionals.
We have been trusted by over a million customers based on our years of provided Industry-best service. Contact us today for your moving to Saudi Arabia journey!
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