How to Move to Medina for Work and Settle Permanently with Your Family in 2025
Complete 2025 Guide for Professionals and Families Seeking Long-Term Residency in Medina Under Saudi Vision 2030
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Yes, skilled professionals can move to Medina, Saudi Arabia in 2025 for employment and legally settle there with their families—either through a job-sponsored work visa or by obtaining Premium Residency (Saudi Green Card). This guide explains how to make the move, what jobs are in demand, legal requirements, and how to build a life in the holy city.
Why Choose Medina in 2025?
Medina (Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah) is not only one of the holiest cities in Islam but also a rapidly growing urban and economic center. With the Saudi government’s Vision 2030 reforms, Medina is transforming through major projects like Rua Al Madinah, aiming to enhance infrastructure, tourism, and job creation.
Key Benefits of Living in Medina:
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Peaceful, family-friendly environment with Islamic values
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Lower cost of living compared to Riyadh or Jeddah
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Access to international schools, modern hospitals, and quality services
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A growing job market for skilled workers across multiple sectors
Top Jobs in Demand in Medina (2025)
Due to economic diversification efforts, the following sectors are booming in Medina:
| Sector | Workforce Share |
|---|---|
| Construction | 24% |
| Vehicle Maintenance & Trade | 20% |
| Manufacturing | 12% |
| Tourism & Hospitality | 11.2% |
High-Demand Occupations:
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Construction & Engineering: Project managers, site supervisors, civil engineers
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Tourism & Hospitality: Front desk officers, hotel managers, Umrah tour coordinators
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Information Technology: AI specialists, cybersecurity professionals, software developers
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Healthcare: Nurses, general practitioners, specialists
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Finance & HR: Accountants, financial analysts, HR officers
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Sales & Marketing: Business developers, digital marketers
Job Portals to Explore:
Legal Ways to Move to Medina for Work in 2025
✅ Option 1: Work Visa with Employer Sponsorship
Saudi employers can sponsor foreign workers under the Kafeel system, offering legal work visas.
Requirements:
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A valid job offer from a Medina-based company
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Experience and educational certificates
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Medical and police clearance
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Compliance with Saudization (priority to local hires)
Pros:
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No need for large upfront payments
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Employer handles visa paperwork
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Eligible for family sponsorship
Cons:
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Limited flexibility (tied to the sponsoring employer)
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Cannot own property
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Subject to expatriate fees
🔗 Apply for Saudi Work Visa – MOFA Portal
✅ Option 2: Saudi Premium Residency (Green Card)
Ideal for professionals with financial means seeking long-term independence.
Types of Residency:
| Type | Cost | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Permanent Residency | SAR 800,000 (one-time) | Full independence, job flexibility, family inclusion |
| Renewable Residency | SAR 100,000/year | Same benefits, renewable annually |
Family Inclusion:
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Spouse and children under 25
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Parents may be sponsored
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Spouse can work legally
How to Apply:
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Apply at the Saudi Premium Residency Portal
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Upload passport, health report, police certificate, and proof of funds
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Pay the $170 USD application fee
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Await approval
🔒 Note: Foreigners cannot own land in Medina, but can lease long-term (up to 99 years) through usufruct agreements.
Housing & Living Costs in Medina (2025)
Medina is affordable for families, especially compared to other major Saudi cities.
| Expense Type | Estimated Range (SAR) |
|---|---|
| Apartment Rent (Yearly) | 15,000 – 30,000 |
| Villa Rent (Yearly) | 40,000 – 80,000 |
| Utilities & Internet | 500 – 800/month |
| School Fees (Per Child) | 10,000 – 30,000/year |
Top Residential Neighborhoods:
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Al Awali
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Al Zahra
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King Fahd District
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Al Shuhada
Education, Healthcare & Transportation in Medina
🎓 Education
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Arabic-medium public schools
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International schools offering English/French curricula
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Notable universities: Taibah University, Islamic University of Medina
🏥 Healthcare
Modern hospitals and clinics include:
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King Fahd Hospital
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Al Ansar Hospital
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Al Dar Hospital (Private)
🚗 Transportation & Connectivity
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Airport: Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport
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Public Transport: Currently buses; metro development underway
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Ride-hailing: Uber and Careem widely used
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Car Rentals: Readily available for expats
Conclusion: Should You Move to Medina in 2025?
If you are a skilled worker, healthcare professional, or tech expert looking for a peaceful Islamic lifestyle with job security and family-friendly infrastructure—Medina in 2025 is an ideal destination.
With multiple legal routes to employment and residency, growing sectors, and an affordable cost of living, Medina offers both spiritual and professional fulfillment.
