Moving from Canada to Saudi Arabia last minute: all you need to know

With the right insights, moving from Canada to Saudi Arabia last minute can be done with ease. We will guide you through this process and prepare you for the challenges you may encounter. We will cover all the important aspects, from work permits to moving companies in Jeddah and finding a comfortable home. We will explore the key things you need to consider when moving from Canada to Saudi Arabia and help you adapt to your new life.

The key differences between Canada and Saudi Arabia

When moving from Canada to Saudi Arabia last minute, these are the key differences you should pay attention to:

1. Employment and work permits
2. Accommodation and housing
3. Education and schools
4. Financial planning and currency exchange

Employment and work permits

If you’ve been working in Canada, you’ve likely enjoyed a diverse job market, where sectors like technology, healthcare, and natural resources provide ample opportunities. However, Saudi Arabia presents a different situation. The oil industry dominates it, but it also offers roles in healthcare and education. To work there, you’ll need a work permit or ‘Iqama’.

The path to your Iqama

Procuring an Iqama isn’t as straightforward as it might be in Canada. It involves numerous documents, including a medical report. The process might take a few weeks. Unlike the Canadian system, where work permits are usually sorted before relocation, your Saudi employer will likely handle your Iqama.

Accommodation and housing

Adjusting to a new home is a major part of moving from Canada to Saudi Arabia last minute. Before you handle your transportation and arrange a shipping container from Canada to Saudi Arabia to carry your belongings, you should plan where your new home will be. First, let’s examine some differences regarding housing in Canada and Saudi Arabia. In cities like Toronto or Vancouver, you’re used to high housing costs. For a one-bedroom apartment, you may pay between $1,000 to $2,000 monthly.

Saudi Arabia presents a different picture. In Saudi Arabia, a range of accommodations, from furnished apartments to villas, offer more affordability. You could secure a nice one-bedroom apartment for about $500-$800 per month.

Gated communities: an added layer of security

Many residential compounds in Saudi Arabia are gated communities. While this might feel unusual, it presents many advantages:

• Safety and security
• Eco-friendly living
• Recreational amenities
• A sense of community

Although different, Saudi Arabia’s housing system has its perks. With careful planning and professional help from international movers in Riyadh to help you with transportation, finding your new home can be less of a task and more of a fascinating journey.

Education and schools

Moving from Canada to Saudi Arabia last minute with kids can add an extra layer of planning around their education. The robust public school system in Canada, accessible and all-inclusive, might be your norm. However, Saudi Arabia offers variety too.

Saudi Arabian School Choices

In Saudi Arabia, there are different school options:

1. Public Schools: They offer free education, but classes are primarily in Arabic. Therefore, most ex-pats usually overlook this option.
2. Private Schools: These schools offer more diversity with some classes in English. However, their curriculums may not align with what you’re used to.
3. International Schools: These institutions offer curriculums in English, closely aligning with global standards. They usually follow American, British, or International Baccalaureate programs.

Financial planning and currency exchange

Settling in a new country involves reshuffling your financial plan. The cost of living in Saudi Arabia is generally lower than in Canada. Groceries, transportation, and healthcare are affordable, which is a pleasant surprise for many expats.

Moving from Canada to Saudi Arabia last minute brings a shift from the Canadian Dollar to the Saudi Riyal and other differences, such rent system.

Currency Exchange: Dollars to Riyals

At present, 1 Canadian Dollar trades for approximately 3 Saudi Riyals. However, exchange rates fluctuate. So, you might want to consider these shifts while planning your finances. Many international banks in Saudi Arabia offer attractive exchange rates, which can help cushion your budget.

Financial Nuances to Consider

In Saudi Arabia, it’s not unusual for rent to be paid annually, unlike Canada’s monthly rent system. Also, the absence of taxes, unlike in Canada, can free up your budget significantly. Navigating these differences will involve a learning curve, but over time, you’ll find it becomes second nature.

Be aware of the requirements for buying property as a foreigner, such as a valid Iqama and employment verification letter.

The advantages of living in Saudi Arabia

Living in Saudi Arabia offers several advantages:

1. Economic opportunities: Saudi Arabia is a major global oil producer, which has led to a strong economy and numerous job opportunities in various sectors, including oil and gas, finance, healthcare, and construction.
2. Cultural and historical richness: The country boasts a rich cultural heritage and historical significance, with numerous archaeological sites, museums, and cultural festivals celebrating its history and traditions.
3. Modern infrastructure: Many cities in Saudi Arabia have modern infrastructure, including state-of-the-art facilities, transportation systems, and amenities.
4. Safety and security: Saudi Arabia is known for its relatively low crime rate, contributing to a sense of safety and security for its residents.
5. Strategic logistics hub: Saudi Arabia has a strategic location at the crossroads of Africa, Asia, and Europe, which positions it as a key logistics hub. The well-developed transportation infrastructure is advantageous for people seeking efficient and reliable logistics support for their global operations, from sea freight from China to Saudi Arabia to sea cargo from Saudi Arabia to Canada.
6. Rich cuisine: Saudi Arabian cuisine is flavorful and diverse, offering a variety of traditional dishes and culinary experiences.

Starting a new chapter in Saudi Arabia

Every country, be it Canada or Saudi Arabia, has its unique charm and challenges. Moving from Canada to Saudi Arabia last minute can be overwhelming. However, with effective planning around your work permit, accommodation, education, and finances, this transition can be smoother. Change, even though initially intimidating, often unfolds exciting opportunities. Therefore, as you prepare for this journey, let your focus not be on the differences but on the adventures that await. After all, this isn’t just a move but an expansion of your life’s experiences. Embrace the change, and welcome a whole new chapter of adventures.