Student guide Saudi Arabia for ID banking housing and everyday essentials
Moving to Saudi Arabia as a student can feel confusing at first. Systems are different and steps are not always explained clearly. This student guide Saudi Arabia walks you through the essentials in the right order so you can settle in without stress. It works for international students arriving for the first time and for students already in KSA who are changing cities or universities.
What this student guide Saudi Arabia covers
This guide focuses only on what students need to start daily life smoothly. It covers ID and residency basics, banking, housing, and everyday services. It does not go into visas, scholarships, or academic admissions unless they directly affect setup.
Saudi ID and residency essentials for students
Every student in Saudi Arabia must have a valid national ID record.
For international students, this is the Iqama. For Saudi students, this is the national ID. Without it, most services are blocked.
International students usually receive their Iqama after the university completes residency processing. This is often handled through the sponsoring institution. Once issued, the Iqama number becomes your main reference for banking, housing contracts, and apps.
If you move cities or change universities, always update your address through Absher. Address records affect deliveries, bank verification, and some government services.
Government services are accessed through the Absher platform, which is the official portal for identity related services. You will need an active Saudi phone number registered in your name to use it. The main platform is Absher.
Opening a bank account as a student in Saudi Arabia
A local bank account is required for stipends, part time work payments, and daily expenses.
Most banks allow students to open an account with
- A valid Iqama or national ID
- An active Saudi phone number
- A registered National Address
Student accounts are available at major banks such as Al Rajhi, SNB, Riyad Bank, and SAB. These accounts usually include a debit card and mobile banking access.
If your university pays stipends, ask which bank they use. Opening an account at the same bank can speed up payments.
Once your account is active, link it to Absher and enable digital verification. This reduces paperwork later when renting housing or signing contracts.
Finding student housing in Saudi Arabia
Housing options depend heavily on city and university.
On campus housing is common for scholarship students and is usually managed by the university. Rules, costs, and availability vary by institution.
Off campus housing is more flexible and widely used by private and self funded students.
Common options include
- Shared apartments near universities
- Studio apartments for single students
- Family apartments for married students
Housing contracts must be registered on the Ejar platform for legal protection. Registered contracts are required for address verification and some bank services.
Before signing, confirm
- Utilities responsibility
- Internet availability
- Distance to campus
- Contract registration status
If you move within the same city, update your National Address after signing the new contract.
Everyday essentials students need to set up
Once ID, banking, and housing are ready, daily life becomes much easier.
SIM card and internet
You need a Saudi SIM registered under your ID. Major providers include STC, Mobily, and Zain. Home internet availability depends on the building.
Transportation
Public transport varies by city. Riyadh and Jeddah have expanding networks, while smaller cities rely more on ride hailing apps. A Saudi driving license is required to drive.
Payments
Most places accept cards, but cash is still used in small shops. Mobile wallets are widely accepted once linked to your bank.
Healthcare
Students usually receive healthcare through their university or a registered insurance provider. Keep your insurance details accessible at all times.
For practical city by city guidance and daily life tips, many students rely on local guides like KSA Buddy which focuses on real world living information.
Quick checklist for students in Saudi Arabia
- Confirm your Iqama or national ID is active
- Register your National Address
- Open a local bank account
- Secure registered housing
- Set up a Saudi SIM card
- Activate Absher access
