Relocating to Riyadh is an exciting chance to experience Saudi Arabia’s lively capital city. Riyadh is a mix of modern style and rich culture. As the country’s main city for business and government, it attracts thousands of people from all over the world. At Riyadh Warehouse Solutions, an IAM Trusted Mover certified company, we understand how complicated an international move can be, and we offer full-service moving to make your move to this dynamic city as smooth as possible.
Getting to Know Riyadh: Your New Home
Riyadh is the largest city in Saudi Arabia, with over seven million people. The city has a unique mix of super-modern buildings, like the Kingdom Centre and Al Faisaliah Tower, and old markets and historic areas. It’s a fast-growing business center, and its diverse population makes it a great place for international families.
The city has a desert climate, with hot summers reaching 45°C and mild winters around 20°C, so it’s a good idea to time your move carefully for comfort. Riyadh is growing fast, with new metro lines, shopping centers, and neighborhoods being built all the time as part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 development plan. The city offers excellent infrastructure including modern healthcare facilities, international schools, and world-class shopping malls that make daily life convenient for expatriate families.
Paperwork And Legal Steps
Before you move, you need to make sure all your documents are in order.
Documents you need before you go
- A valid passport (with at least 6 months left before it expires)
- A Saudi work visa (which your employer will help you get)
- Medical and health records
- School and college degrees (that have been officially verified)
- Marriage and birth certificates (if you need them)
- A police report from your home country
Things to do after you arrive
- Get your Iqama (residence permit)
- Apply for a Saudi driver’s license
- Open a bank account
- Get enrolled in health insurance
Where Can You Live In Riyadh
Riyadh has many different places to live, to fit different budgets and lifestyles.
Popular areas for expats
- Diplomatic Quarter (DQ): A high-end area with international schools and embassies, perfect for families with children
- Olaya: A modern business area with nice apartments and close proximity to major offices
- Al Malaz: A good place for families with many services, parks, and recreational facilities
- Al Nakheel: A newer area with modern housing and growing expatriate community
- Al Sulaimaniah: An established neighborhood with traditional charm and modern conveniences
Types of homes
- Furnished and unfurnished apartments ranging from studio to four-bedroom units
- Compound living (gated communities with shared facilities like pools, gyms, and playgrounds)
- Traditional villas for big families with private gardens and parking
- Serviced apartments for short stays or temporary accommodation
Many expat families like living in compounds because of the community feel and extra facilities like pools and gyms. Compounds also provide a sense of security and often organize social events for residents.
Moving Your Household Goods
Getting your personal belongings to Riyadh needs careful planning and the right shipping strategy for your specific needs.
Household shipping options
- Inland transportation: Riyadh does not have a physical sea port. Household items arrive at Saudi coastal ports (Jeddah, Dammam, King Abdullah Port) and require inland trucking to reach Riyadh. Inland transportation from ports to Riyadh takes around 28 to 40 days.
- Air freight: This is a faster option for things you need quickly, like important items, electronics, and valuables. It takes 1–2 weeks transit time
- Combined shipping: You can send some things by sea and the most important things by air to save money and time
Packing and preparation
- Professional packing services for fragile items and furniture protection
- Climate-controlled storage for temperature-sensitive belongings during transit
- Complete inventory documentation for customs clearance requirements
- Special handling for electronics, artwork, antiques, and valuable items
- Proper wrapping and crating for furniture to prevent damage during long-distance shipping
Why Choose Riyadh Warehouse Solutions
Our team has decades of experience, so your furniture is handled with the care and precision needed for overseas shipping. As an IAM Trusted Mover certified company, we’ve completed over 475+ successful contracts, served 225+ satisfied clients across 12+ different cities, and have expertise in 35+ different industries.We provide comprehensive shipping services from popular destinations to Riyadh including the USA, Canada, and UK. This track record sets us apart in the international moving industry and ensures your household goods reach Riyadh safely and on schedule.
Customs And Import Procedures
- Duty-free allowance for used personal household goods when you have residence status
- Required inventory list in both Arabic and English with detailed descriptions
- Residence permit (Iqama) needed for customs clearance process
- Banned items include alcohol, pork products, and certain medications
- Electronic items require voltage compatibility checks (220V standard in Saudi Arabia)
- Professional customs clearance services ensure smooth processing and avoid delays
Moving to Riyadh opens the door to great opportunities. While the move requires careful planning, the benefits include tax-free income, a great career, and a chance to see a country that is changing fast. Riyadh Warehouse Solutions is ready to help you with every part of your move. From packing your belongings to getting them through customs and to your new home, our full services and local knowledge will make your move the start of an exciting new chapter.