Relocating to Medina for Permanent Work and Family Settlement in 2025

A distinctive opportunity to embrace a harmonious blend of professional development and spiritual fulfillment is presented by relocating to Medina in 2025 for permanent work and family settlement. Medina, one of Islam’s holiest cities, offers a culturally rich and tranquil atmosphere that is ideal for rearing a family. The city is becoming increasingly appealing for long-term career prospects due to the growth of employment markets and ongoing urban development, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, education, and hospitality.

Living in Medina also provides access to a modern infrastructure, excellent educational institutions, and a robust community network, all while being in close proximity to profoundly significant religious landmarks. This change is not merely a career advancement; it is a lifestyle transformation that is rooted in faith, stability, and the long-term well-being of one’s family.

Why Choose Medina?

Medina is currently experiencing rapid urban development, particularly as a result of the Rua Al Madinah initiative (Ref), which is designed to improve urban infrastructure and religious tourism. The city provides a serene, family-friendly environment, a lower cost of living than Riyadh or Jeddah, and a robust sense of community that is deeply anchored in Islamic traditions.

Medina is also home to a burgeoning employment market, reputable institutions such as Taibah University, and modern healthcare facilities, all of which are a result of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to diversify its economy beyond oil.

Skill Shortages and In-Demand Jobs in Medina (2025):

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic plan (Ref) has accelerated Medina’s growth, particularly in the fields of construction, technology, hospitality, and healthcare. In Q1 of 2025, the following workforce patterns were observed in Medina:

• Construction employs 24% of the labor force.
• 20% in commerce and vehicle maintenance
• 12% in the manufacturing sector
• 11.2% in the tourism and hospitality sector

These figures suggest strong demand across multiple sectors. If you have skills in these areas, your chances of employment—and eventually residency—are much higher.

High-Demand Occupations in Medina:

Here are key sectors currently experiencing skill shortages:

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• Civil engineers, project managers, site supervisors, and safety officers are in high demand as a result of significant infrastructure developments, such as Rua Al Madinah, in the field of construction and engineering.
• Tourism and Hospitality: Front desk staff, F&B associates, hotel administrators, and travel coordinators are required by hotels, restaurants, and Hajj/Umrah services.
• IT & Technology: The demand for software developers, cloud engineers, cybersecurity analysts, and AI specialists is on the rise.
• Healthcare: In order to address staffing shortages in both public and private hospitals, there is an urgent need for nurses, general practitioners, and specialized physicians.
• Finance & Administration: Job portals frequently feature financial analysts, accountants, HR specialists, and executive assistants.
• Sales and Marketing: The city’s growth as a commercial center has resulted in a demand for professionals interested in digital marketing and business development.

Check Also: Dubai Work VISA for International Job Seekers

How to Legally Work and Settle in Medina in 2025?

There are two major legal pathways that allow you to work and settle permanently in Medina:

1# Employment-Based Residency (Work Visa with Sponsorship):

If you receive a job offer from a Saudi employer, they will usually sponsor your work visa. Once you begin working, you can apply for dependent visas for your spouse and children.

Requirements:

• A valid employment contract with an employer located in Medina
• Employer sponsorship (Kafeel system)
• documentation of education and professional experience
• Police verification and medical certification
• Compliance with the Saudization (Nitaqat) program, which prioritizes Saudi nationals for specific positions.

Pros:

• No upfront large fees
• Employer typically handles documentation.

Cons:

• Unless you transfer sponsorship, you are contractually bound to a single employer.
• Absence of property ownership rights
• Expatriate expenses may apply.

2# Premium Residency (Saudi Green Card):

The Saudi Premium Residency system is the optimal choice for individuals with adequate financial resources who desire long-term security and autonomy.

Options:

Unlimited Duration (Permanent):

• One-time fee: SAR 800,000
• Grants indefinite stay, ability to switch jobs, start a business, and more

Limited Duration (Annual Renewable):

• The annual fee is SAR 100,000.
• The same privileges as permanent, but they are renewable annually.

Family Inclusion:

• The inclusion of a spouse and children under the age of 25 is permissible
• Parents are eligible for sponsorship.
• Spouse obtains a work authorization (Talent Passport–Family)

Application Steps:

1. Apply via Saudi Premium Residency Portal
2. Please provide copies of your passport, medical examinations, a criminal record certificate, and proof of financial stability.
3. Remit the application processing fee of $170 USD.
4. Await approval.

Bonus: Premium Residency holders are exempt from expat fees, can establish their own business, and do not require employer sponsorship.

Housing & Cost of Living in Medina:

While property ownership is restricted in Medina, long-term leasing is common and affordable.

• Apartment rent ranges from SAR 15,000 to SAR 30,000 annually, contingent upon the location.
• Rent for a villa: SAR 40,000–80,000 annually
• Utilities and internet: SAR 500–800 per month
• International schools charge between SAR 10,000 and SAR 30,000 per student annually.

The popular residential areas of Medina include: Al Awali, Al Zahra, King Fahd District, and Al Shuhada.

Education, Healthcare, and Connectivity in Medina (2025):

Medina provides a robust foundation in both healthcare and education for families that intend to establish themselves there. Local Arabic-medium schools and numerous international private schools that adhere to English or French curricula facilitate the adjustment of expatriate children. Institutions such as the Islamic University of Medina and Taibah University, which serve as the foundation of higher education, accept students from all corners of the Islamic world. Healthcare is both modern and accessible, with a variety of private clinics and top-tier facilities, including King Fahd Hospital and Al Ansar Hospital, that accommodate to a wide range of medical needs.

Medina is well-connected to the world through the Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport. Currently, public transportation is primarily based on buses; however, Vision 2030 is in the process of developing a metro system. Furthermore, Uber and Careem ride-hailing services are widely accessible, and car rentals are an easy option for families that require transportation within the city.

Frequently Asked Questions: