Life in Saudi Arabia

For many, joining Aramco will be the first time they set foot in Saudi Arabia: here’s our quick guide to life in the Kingdom.

Saudi Arabia is a country shaped by strong family values, deep-rooted hospitality, and a growing focus on quality of life. For international employees, life in the Kingdom offers a distinctive blend of cultural heritage and modern infrastructure.

At Aramco, we recognize that relocating to a new country involves professional, personal, and family considerations. Beyond employment, we support employees in navigating everyday life — helping them understand the local environment, access essential services, and establish a stable and comfortable home away from home.

A vibrant Kingdom

Saudi Arabia is rapidly evolving with an expanding global profile across business, culture, and travel. Its major cities have developed into dynamic urban centers, supported by significant investment in infrastructure, public spaces, and large-scale cultural initiatives.

The Kingdom has emerged as a recognized destination for major international events and experiences, hosting globally attended festivals, exhibitions, sporting events, and entertainment programs. Initiatives such as Riyadh Season have transformed city centers into year-round cultural and leisure destinations, attracting international visitors and residents alike with live performances, exhibitions, dining, and family-focused experiences.

The country is also characterized by a young and digitally-connected population, which continues to influence lifestyle trends, workplace culture, and the growth of arts, entertainment, and recreational activities. For international employees and their families, this contributes to a living environment that combines cultural depth with the energy of a modern, fast-changing society.

Climate

Contrary to popular belief, it’s not always hot in Saudi Arabia. In fact, the country’s climate varies by region, influenced by geography and elevation. Coastal areas experience higher humidity, while inland regions tend to be drier.

In Dhahran, which is home to our headquarters, summers generally extend from May through September, with peak heat during June to August. During early summer, seasonal winds may carry dust and sand.

Winter months, typically from December to February, are milder, with cooler mornings and evenings and occasional rainfall. This weather is ideal for outdoor activities like camping, rock climbing or exploring bustling cities from Riyadh to Jeddah. While winter temperatures in Dhahran average between 15 to 18°C, some areas in the Asir Province even see snowfall blanketing the desert sands and the mountain slopes.

Culture and everyday life

Saudi culture is grounded in respect, generosity, and social connection. Hospitality is a defining characteristic, and you will find daily interactions courteous and welcoming. Cultural practices are influenced by regional traditions, Islamic values, and a strong emphasis on family life.

Everyday considerations:

Modest dressing is expected in public settings. Loose-fitting clothing that covers shoulders, arms, and knees is recommended for both men and women in public.
The working week runs from Sunday to Thursday. Friday and Saturday are weekends.
Family-oriented spaces such as parks, malls, cafés, and community centers are central to social life.

We provide our new hires cultural awareness resources and relocation guidance to help them and their families settle in comfortably and confidently.

Healthcare

We provide eligible employees and dependents with access to an integrated healthcare system, including community-based clinics and Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare (JHAH) facilities.

Healthcare services are structured to support preventative care, general medicine, specialist services, and emergency needs.

Facilities are designed to meet international standards, with a strong focus on patient experience and continuity of care.

Education: supporting family learning needs

Education is an important priority for families relocating to Saudi Arabia. We support employees through access to established education pathways designed to help children transition smoothly and continue their academic development.

For many families, this includes access to Saudi Aramco Expatriate Schools, which offer a structured learning environment with modern facilities and extracurricular opportunities. Additional guidance is available for families exploring other international education options.

Housing and community living

We support employees with housing solutions that reflect different family needs and lifestyles. Depending on role and availability, options may include company-operated communities, or rental assistance within local neighborhoods.

Company-operated communities are designed to offer a safe and supportive living environment, with access to amenities, recreational facilities, and community services.

Each Aramco community has a central dining hall open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

You’ll also find snack bars, similar to fast food restaurants, in each community. Dhahran community also has its own restaurants that serve lunch and dinner.

Dhahran

Dhahran is Aramco’s largest residential community and the location of the Company’s global headquarters. The community offers a broad range of services and recreational amenities, including health and dental clinics, sports and leisure facilities, and walking trails. Its location provides convenient access to Half Moon Bay, a nearby coastal area on the Arabian Gulf with public beaches and waterfront facilities, as well as nearby urban centers for shopping, dining, and leisure.

Ras Tanura

Ras Tanura is a coastal residential community on the Arabian Gulf, supporting aviation, marine, and refinery operations. It offers a variety of leisure and recreational facilities, including sports courts, swimming pools, fitness trails, and a golf course overlooking the Gulf. Additional services and amenities are available in the nearby town of Rahima.

Abqaiq

Abqaiq is a well-established residential community supporting Aramco’s oil processing operations. The community includes recreation complexes, dining and meeting spaces, a library, sports facilities, swimming pools, and a golf course. It is located close to the town of Medinat, offering access to local markets and dining options.

Udhailiyah

Udhailiyah is a smaller residential community located southwest of Dhahran, offering essential services and recreational facilities. The community includes newer homes and townhouses, sports courts, swimming pools, a golf course set within the surrounding hills, and shared community spaces. Access to the nearby city of Hofuf is available via company transport.