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Virtually all expatriates working in Saudi Arabia rent their property, and many are on employment contracts that include free or heavily subsidized housing, furniture and utilities.

The majority of expatriates live in large compounds, with resort-type facilities. The Mutawwa do not enter such areas so it is possible to live a much more relaxed lifestyle than would be possible outside the compound. The compounds vary greatly in size and facilities, from small developments of around six houses and a swimming pool, to vast complexes including hundreds of houses and apartments, with pools, sports and leisure facilities and convenience stores.

If your employment contract does not include free housing, the starting rental price for a two-bedroom villa in an expatriate compound is likely to be in the region of SR50,000 per year. You will usually be required to pay a year's rent in advance, although this may be negotiable and some compounds accept six-monthly or monthly payments.