There’s something about long drives through the desert that makes for the best conversations. I interviewed Charles Howard while we were making our way from Bahrain to Riyadh, the vast Arabian landscape stretching endlessly on either side of us. The sun was setting, casting golden hues over the sand, and as we talked, it became clear that his journey to Saudi Arabia had been just as expansive and unexpected as the road ahead.
A construction professional from the UK, Charles moved to Riyadh in search of something new—a fresh adventure, a career shift, and a chance to experience life beyond the familiar. Our conversation covered his motivations for moving, the process of obtaining premium residency, and what it’s been like to put down roots in the Kingdom.
A Leap into the Unknown
For Charles, the decision to move to Saudi Arabia was not about dissatisfaction with life in London. Quite the opposite—he enjoyed his job and had a stable life. However, he craved a change, a new adventure, and an opportunity to shake things up.
“I had been doing the same job for ten years, and while I was happy, I wanted to make sure that I experienced different things in life,” he shared. “Saudi Arabia seemed like the perfect place because of its rapid development in construction and the exciting cultural contrast to the UK.”
Unlike many expats, Charles arrived with no firm expectations. Aware of the sometimes-negative media portrayal of Saudi Arabia in the West, he chose to keep an open mind.
“What I found was completely different from what I had read. Every turn has been fascinating, and I’ve really enjoyed adjusting to a new way of life.”
Securing Stability with Premium Residency
One of the biggest concerns for expats working in Saudi Arabia is visa security. Charles initially came on a one-year work visa, which required annual renewal and was tied to his employment. Knowing he wanted to stay longer, he looked into the Premium Residency program, which offers a five-year residence permit independent of employer sponsorship.
“When I heard about it, I knew immediately that it was the right choice. It provided the security I needed to stay in Saudi Arabia long-term and removed the stress of renewing a work visa every year,” he explained.
Premium Residency also comes with other perks, such as the ability to own property and start a business—something that would have been impossible under a standard work visa.
Becoming a Property Owner in Riyadh
With his premium residency secured, Charles quickly took another big step—buying property in Riyadh. He purchased an off-plan apartment, a process that, to his surprise, was straightforward and well-regulated.
“The entire process was remarkably smooth. I got my residency less than three months ago, and I already own a property. The Saudi government’s oversight ensures everything is structured, with payments linked to construction progress, making it feel less risky than buying off-plan in the UK.”
For Charles, buying a home was both a practical and financial decision.
“Instead of paying rent, I’m now paying towards a mortgage, which makes more sense for me long-term. Plus, the real estate market here looks promising.”
Looking Ahead: A Future in Saudi Arabia?
When Charles first moved to Saudi Arabia, he didn’t know how long he would stay. However, it quickly became clear that Riyadh was offering exactly the adventure and career growth he was looking for.
“With my five-year premium residency, I’m almost certain I’ll be here for that entire period. And there’s no reason why I wouldn’t renew it for another five years.”
Still, he acknowledges that Saudi Arabia is evolving at a rapid pace, making long-term predictions difficult.
“In ten years, I might decide to move back to a place more similar to where I’m from, but I know that Saudi Arabia will always have a special place in my heart.”
Charles’ story is one of curiosity, adaptability, and strategic decision-making. His experience highlights the growing opportunities for expats in Saudi Arabia, as well as the transformative nature of taking a leap into the unknown.
Would you consider moving to Saudi Arabia? I’d love to hear your thoughts—feel free to reach out!