One British expat making a name for himself in Saudi is Mikman, who runs a successful bootlegging operation. With strict laws around alcohol consumption in the country, Mikman saw an opportunity to provide expats with the drinks they desire.

He started his business by sourcing alcohol from Bahrain and Dubai and selling it to expats in Saudi. Despite the risks involved, Mikman’s business has thrived, and he now has a loyal customer base who appreciate his discreet and reliable service.

Bootlegging is illegal in Saudi Arabia, and those caught can face severe penalties. However, Mikman believes that his business provides a valuable service to expats who struggle to access alcohol through legal channels.

While Mikman’s story may be unique, it highlights the entrepreneurial spirit that is emerging in Saudi Arabia. As the country undergoes rapid modernization and diversification, opportunities for foreign business owners are on the rise.

Western shops and restaurants are arriving fast in Saudi, with brands like Marks & Spencer, Boots, and global names like Zuma setting up shop in the country. The influx of international businesses is a testament to the changing landscape of Saudi Arabia and its growing appeal to expats.

With its ambitious Vision 2030 project and a focus on economic diversification, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. The country’s financial incentives, such as zero income tax and high salaries, are attracting skilled professionals from around the world.

While Saudi Arabia still grapples with social conservatism and human rights issues, the allure of its booming economy and business opportunities is undeniable. As more expats like Mikman take advantage of the changing landscape, Saudi Arabia is quickly becoming a hotspot for foreign entrepreneurs looking to make their mark in the Middle East.

This law will allow expats to buy property in Saudi Arabia for the first time, a move that is expected to further boost the real estate market. Expats like Sarah and Julie are already seeing the benefits of living in a country that is rapidly opening up to foreign investment and talent.

Sarah, who moved to Riyadh with her family for her husband’s job in the sports industry, describes Saudi Arabia as an entrepreneurial country. She has found the people in Riyadh to be friendly, helpful, and with a great sense of humor. The cost of living is slightly higher than in Dubai, where they previously lived, but they find the lifestyle in Riyadh to be enjoyable and fulfilling.

Weekends in Riyadh are spent much like in Dubai, with pool parties, trips to the mall, indoor activities to escape the heat, and camping in the desert. The lifting of the ban on women driving in 2018 has led to an influx of female entrepreneurs, especially in the fashion industry. Women now make up 36% of the workforce in Saudi Arabia, double the proportion in 2017.

However, the influx of expats has also brought challenges, such as oversubscribed schools. The demand for quality education has led to the opening of new schools, including branches of well-known international schools. School fees can be high, but many expats find that the higher salaries in Saudi Arabia more than make up for the cost of living.

Julie, who moved to Riyadh from Dubai with her husband for a job at the airport, also sees the benefits of higher salaries in Saudi Arabia. They live in a compound with their toddler, with their rent covered by his employer. Julie notes that life in Riyadh has become more cosmopolitan since they arrived, with new shops, restaurants, and entertainment options opening up.

As Saudi Arabia continues to open up to foreign investment and talent, expats like Sarah and Julie are reaping the benefits of a country that is rapidly changing and evolving. The new Freehold Law, which will allow expats to buy property in Saudi Arabia, is just one example of the country’s commitment to attracting and retaining expat talent. Life in Saudi Arabia may have its challenges, but for many expats, the rewards far outweigh the difficulties. Saudi Arabia is cautiously opening its doors to foreign investment while prioritizing meeting domestic demand first. According to Goodson-Wickes, the country is taking steps towards loosening rules on foreign ownership, allowing for more opportunities for international buyers.

In the luxury market, branded residences have started to make an appearance in Saudi Arabia. For example, The Armani Residences Diriyah offers 15 homes styled by Giorgio Armani in an ancient mud-brick UNESCO World Heritage Site. This site is currently being developed into a mega-city, attracting attention from international buyers.

Erick Knaider, from estate agent Saudi Arabia Sotheby’s International Realty, notes that international buyers are becoming curious about the real estate market in Saudi Arabia. As the legal framework evolves to allow off-plan purchases for foreigners, it is expected to level the playing field with other real estate hubs like Dubai.

One of the unique offerings in Saudi Arabia is the city of Neom, where futuristic projects like The Line are being constructed. The Line is a concept city that aims to house 300,000 people by 2030, showcasing a different lifestyle compared to other cities like Dubai. Neom provides a safe and free environment for families, with amenities like schools, supermarkets, and restaurants within reach.

For those interested in moving to Saudi Arabia, there are options for obtaining a Premium Residency visa, also known as the “Saudi Green Card.” These visas are available for individuals with special talents, investors, entrepreneurs, or those who make significant investments in real estate. There is also an option for a one-off payment to secure a Premium Residency visa.

Overall, Saudi Arabia is gradually opening up to foreign investment opportunities while ensuring that the needs of its domestic market are met. With unique luxury offerings and futuristic projects like Neom, the real estate market in Saudi Arabia is attracting attention from international buyers looking for something different from traditional real estate hubs.