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MENA

Student guide to Saudi Arabia

KAUST (King Abdullah University) is research-intensive English-medium powerhouse with world-class facilities. KFUPM strong in engineering. KSA Vision 2030 driving rapid education investment.

Official education portal: https://moe.gov.sa

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Student visa & residence permit

Student residence (Iqama) sponsored by institution. Financial requirement covered.

Tax & part-time work

Zero personal income tax. VAT 15%.

Scholarships specific to this country

KAUST is fully-funded for all admitted PhD/MS students — tuition + monthly stipend + housing + travel. KFUPM substantial student aid.

Student banking & money

SNB, Riyad Bank, NCB, Al-Rajhi. Iqama required.

Student accommodation

Campus housing standard at KAUST and KFUPM. Off-campus complicates iqama logistics.

Healthcare & insurance

University-arranged insurance. Modern facilities especially in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dhahran.

Language requirements

KAUST entirely English-medium. KFUPM English-medium for engineering. IELTS 6.5+/TOEFL iBT 79+. Arabic A1 helps daily transactions.

Food, groceries, dietary

Indian groceries in Riyadh (Batha), Jeddah, Dhahran. Vegetarian and halal universal.

Safety & local context

Among safest countries on most metrics. Strict laws — research social conduct expectations.

Indian diaspora & community

Massive Indian-origin community (~2.6M). Indian Embassy Riyadh + Consulate Jeddah.

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