Study and Living in Saudi Arabia
As a student, there are many questions running through your head, like the costs of study and living in Saudi Arabia, travel, accommodation, healthcare, and more. Read on to know get the answer to all these questions:
Tuition Fees
Education in Saudi Arabia is free of charge at all educational levels for Saudi citizens. For international students also, education is free. Though, some of the universities charge fees from international students for undergraduate degree programmes. Check with your chosen higher education institution in Saudi Arabia about the tuition fees.
Accommodation
Most of the higher education institutions provide accommodation to the students. The fees vary depending on the institution, facilities and location. Also, bus facility is provided to students staying at the university accommodation free of charge.
Private accommodation: In Saudi Arabia, there are private rental apartments available. Also, private accommodation is organized through the higher education institution. There are furnished and unfurnished apartments. Prices vary depending on the apartment-furnished or unfurnished.
Living Expenses
The living cost in Saudi Arabia is high. A student can expect to spend a minimum of USD$ 1,500 per month.
Rent per month: The rent of the apartments varies between SR 1,000 and SR 3,000, depending in the no. of rooms-one or three, and the location- city centre or outside city centre.
Transportation
Getting Around by Taxis
Taxis are a popular and easiest means of transport in Saudi Arabia. The fares vary depending on the distance travelled. Taxis can be pre-booked, and there are taxi booking apps also available in Saudi Arabia.
Travelling In and Around by Buses and Coaches
In Saudi Arabia, buses are a vital part of the public transport system, and also they are cheap. Coach services are available for intercity travel by companies like the Saudi Public Transport Company (SAPTCO).
There are separate sections for women and men in coaches and buses in Saudi Arabia.
Getting Around by Trains
The Saudi Arabian Railways Organization managed and operates the railway network in Saudi Arabia. To travel on the train, you must have a valid identity card or your passport. There is a train line from Riyadh to Dammam, and many new lines are being established.
Getting Around by Cars
In Saudi Arabia, cars can be rented. A valid driver’s license is required. Foreigners must have an international license or license from their home country.
Healthcare
The Ministry of Health provides healthcare facilities to the Saudi nationals free of costs. International students must have a valid health insurance.
Working Conditions in Saudi Arabia
Students in Saudi Arabia are not allowed to work while studying.
After completion of education, they can work, provided they possess a valid work permit.
Average working hours: 8 hours per day
Working week: Saturday to Wednesday, with Thursday and Friday being the weekend. Though, some of the private companies work on a Thursday as well.
Holidays: 3 public holidays each year
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