Saudi Arabia is rapidly emerging as a destination for digital nomads, thanks to its growing infrastructure, improving internet connectivity, and exciting cultural experiences. With the Kingdom opening its doors to more expatriates and remote workers, finding the perfect place to live as a digital nomad has never been easier. Whether you’re looking for a bustling city with modern conveniences or a serene retreat that balances work and relaxation, Saudi Arabia has something to offer.

Here are the top three places in Saudi Arabia for digital nomads, considering factors like internet speed, cost of living, quality of life, and community.

1. Riyadh – The Modern Business Hub

As the capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh is the financial and political center of the country. It’s a city that seamlessly blends modern skyscrapers with traditional culture, offering digital nomads access to everything they need for a comfortable and productive lifestyle.

Why Riyadh?

• Reliable Internet and Infrastructure: Riyadh boasts some of the fastest internet speeds in the country, making it an excellent choice for remote workers who rely on seamless video calls and high-speed browsing.
• Coworking Spaces and Cafés: The city has seen a surge in coworking spaces such as The Space, Regus, and Hive Workspaces, where you can meet like-minded professionals and network.
• Vibrant Social Scene: Riyadh is home to numerous high-end restaurants, malls, and cultural festivals like Riyadh Season, ensuring that life outside work is just as exciting.
• Great for Business Growth: If you’re an entrepreneur, Riyadh’s booming startup scene provides ample opportunities for collaborations and investments.

Things to Consider

• The cost of living is higher than in other Saudi cities, especially when it comes to rent and dining out.
• Riyadh has strict regulations, so it’s important to be aware of cultural expectations and local customs.

2. Jeddah – The Laid-Back Coastal City

If you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere with access to beautiful beaches and a thriving expat community, Jeddah is the place to be. Located on the Red Sea coast, Jeddah offers a mix of business opportunities and an easygoing lifestyle.

Why Jeddah?

• Beachside Living: Jeddah’s scenic coastline allows digital nomads to take breaks by the beach, enjoy water activities like diving and snorkeling, and work from seaside cafés.
• More Liberal Lifestyle: Compared to Riyadh, Jeddah is more laid-back when it comes to social norms, making it a preferred choice for many expatriates.
• Rich Cultural Heritage: The historic district of Al-Balad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provides a charming backdrop for those who appreciate history and architecture.
• Lower Cost of Living: While still a major city, Jeddah is more affordable than Riyadh when it comes to accommodation and food.

Things to Consider

• The humidity can be intense, especially in summer.
• While there are many coworking spaces, the infrastructure for remote work isn’t as advanced as in Riyadh.

3. Al Khobar – The Hidden Gem for Nomads

Al Khobar, part of the Eastern Province, is an underrated gem for digital nomads. It’s known for its modern lifestyle, waterfront views, and proximity to Bahrain, making it an exciting place to live and work.

Why Al Khobar?

• Peaceful and Well-Developed: Al Khobar is a clean, organized city with excellent infrastructure, offering a balanced lifestyle for digital nomads.
• Proximity to Bahrain: The King Fahd Causeway connects Al Khobar to Bahrain, making weekend trips easy for those who want a quick getaway.
• Expanding Tech Scene: The city is growing as a hub for IT and business, with several tech startups setting up operations here.
• Affordable Cost of Living: Compared to Riyadh and Jeddah, Al Khobar offers more budget-friendly housing and dining options.

Things to Consider

• The social scene isn’t as vibrant as in Riyadh or Jeddah, making it less ideal for those looking for an active nightlife.
• The pace of life is slower, which may not appeal to everyone.

Honorable Mentions

While Riyadh, Jeddah, and Al Khobar are the top picks, there are a few other cities that digital nomads might find appealing:

• Madinah – A serene city with a deeply spiritual atmosphere, perfect for those looking for a peaceful work environment. While not as developed for remote work, it offers a unique lifestyle.
• Abha – Located in the Asir region, Abha provides a cooler climate and stunning mountain landscapes, ideal for nomads who want to escape the heat.
• Neom – This futuristic city is still under development but is expected to be a digital hub in the coming years.

Final Thoughts

Saudi Arabia is a country full of surprises for digital nomads. Whether you want the fast-paced business environment of Riyadh, the beachside relaxation of Jeddah, or the balanced lifestyle of Al Khobar, there’s a city that fits your needs.

For those considering a move to Saudi Arabia, it’s also worth exploring opportunities to travel within the country. If you’re interested in exploring the spiritual side of Saudi Arabia, consider booking an Umrah trip with Tarteel Travel, a trusted provider for memorable Umrah journeys.

As Saudi Arabia continues to develop and open up, digital nomads can expect even more opportunities to thrive in this part of the world.