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Find your place in Riyadh with a local home finder

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Remoters puts you in touch with a home finder living there, who speaks your language, searches to your criteria, views on your behalf and stays with you through to the signed lease.

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They know the neighbourhoods, the rents and how the local market works, and they speak your language.

Shortlists properties and visits them for you

Listings, agencies, local network: they shortlist to your criteria and view properties on your behalf.

Backs your application and negotiates the lease

They present your application to the landlord and negotiate the lease terms for you.

Every step protected, no hidden surprises

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What does a home finder actually do?

Six missions, from the first brief to key handover.

Illustration: scoping the search

They scope your search

Real budget, viable neighbourhoods, size, life constraints. The brief is written before the first listing — that's what saves three months of pointless viewings.

Illustration: local market specialist

They comb the whole market

Portals, local agencies, private landlords: your home finder checks every new listing daily and contacts agencies on your behalf, so nothing slips through.

Illustration: viewings and neighbourhoods

They visit for you

Filmed viewings, an honest report, walks through the neighbourhood at different hours. You no longer need to travel: your home finder does it all for you remotely.

Illustration: price negotiation

They assess and negotiate

Local rent levels, service charges, the state of the property, lease length. Concrete arguments to negotiate the terms — on your side, this time.

Illustration: securing the application

They secure the application

Locally required documents, guarantor, translation, review of the lease and the inventory. This is where foreign applications most often fall apart.

Illustration: saving time when settling in

They stay with you until you're settled in

Inventory, key handover, utilities set-up, first admin steps. Your home finder doesn't disappear once the contract is signed: they remain a valuable contact for any questions about life on the ground.

What you get

Safety

No scams, verified homes, secure payment.

Speed

A home found in a few weeks.

Human

Guided by a local home finder, in your language.

Peace of mind

Everything handled remotely, stress-free.

How it works

Four steps, from your request to the signed lease.

1

We get acquainted

You start by filling in a short questionnaire to tell us a bit more about your search.

2

Free first call

One of our home finders then takes over and contacts you for a free first conversation. The goal? Understanding exactly what you need.

3

The adventure begins

If it clicks and you want to move forward, you receive a tailored quote. Once approved, the search begins!

4

Heading to your new home

Your home finder searches for you, shares their finds, stays with you through to signing the lease — all that’s left is packing your bags.

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Riyadh
Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is a major destination for expatriate professionals, with a long-term rental market shaped by strong demand and the ongoing reforms of Saudi Vision 2030. Monthly apartment rents range from approximately SAR 1,500/month in outer districts to SAR 12,000/month or more in premium areas such as Al Olaya and the Diplomatic Quarter, according to Sands of Wealth (September 2025). All rental contracts must be registered on the Ejar platform, the government's official system, and tenants typically need a valid Iqama (residence permit) to sign a long-term lease. Popular expat neighbourhoods include the Diplomatic Quarter, Al Malqa, Hittin, and Al Nakheel, each offering a distinct balance of location, amenities, and rental budget. Utilities — electricity, water, and internet — are billed separately and are not included in quoted rents.

Renting long-term in Riyadh in brief: Monthly rents for apartments range from SAR 1,500/month (entry-level, outer districts) to SAR 12,000/month or more (luxury, central areas). All contracts must be registered on the Ejar platform — this is mandatory and legally required. You will need a valid Iqama (residence permit), passport, and proof of employment to rent. Top expat neighbourhoods include the Diplomatic Quarter, Al Malqa, Hittin, Al Nakheel, and Al Olaya. Utilities are not included in rent and are billed separately. Agent fees are typically around 2.5% of the annual rent.

Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, has become an increasingly attractive destination for international professionals and expatriate families. The city combines a rapidly modernising urban environment with a strong job market, particularly in sectors such as finance, technology, energy, healthcare, and construction — all accelerated by the Saudi Vision 2030 reform programme.

From a practical standpoint, Riyadh offers a high standard of living relative to its cost base. The city is home to a large and well-established expatriate community, with dedicated international schools, Western-style supermarkets, and a growing range of restaurants, cultural venues, and entertainment facilities. Landmarks such as the Masmak Fortress, the National Museum of Saudi Arabia, and the emerging Diriyah heritage district provide cultural depth alongside the city's modern skyline.

Safety levels are consistently rated as high, and infrastructure — including roads, healthcare facilities, and digital connectivity — continues to improve. The city's position as the headquarters of major Saudi and international corporations makes it the primary destination for professionals relocating to the Kingdom. For families, the availability of reputable international schools and compound-style residential communities with shared amenities adds to Riyadh's appeal as a long-term base.

Day-to-day life in Riyadh as a long-term tenant is shaped by the city's scale, climate, and rapidly evolving urban offer. Here is what to expect practically:

  • Transport: Riyadh is a car-dependent city. Most residents drive or use ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Careem. The Riyadh Metro, which opened in 2024, provides an alternative for key corridors, but coverage remains limited compared to the city's sprawl.
  • Shopping and daily needs: Large supermarkets including Tamimi Markets, Danube, and Carrefour are well distributed across the city. Major malls such as Mall of Arabia, Riyadh Park, and Al Nakheel Mall offer a wide range of retail, dining, and leisure options.
  • Healthcare: Riyadh has a well-developed private healthcare sector. Hospitals such as King Faisal Specialist Hospital and a range of international-standard private clinics serve the expatriate community. Private health insurance is strongly recommended and often provided by employers.
  • Education: International schools are available across the city, including British, American, French, and IB-curriculum institutions. Schools are concentrated in northern districts such as Al Malqa and the Diplomatic Quarter area. Places fill quickly — register early.
  • Climate: Riyadh has an arid desert climate with very hot summers (temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C) and mild winters. Air conditioning is essential and runs almost year-round, which affects electricity bills significantly.
  • Cultural norms: Saudi Arabia has undergone significant social liberalisation in recent years, but local customs and regulations still apply. Dress codes, public behaviour norms, and alcohol restrictions (alcohol is not legally available) are part of daily life and should be understood before arrival.
  • Banking and payments: Opening a local bank account (e.g. with Al Rajhi Bank, Riyad Bank, or Saudi National Bank) requires your Iqama. Digital payments are widely accepted across the city.

Riyadh's long-term rental market has experienced strong growth in recent years, driven by the influx of international professionals and the expansion of the expatriate workforce under Saudi Vision 2030. According to JLL, apartment rental rates in Riyadh rose by 19.6% year-on-year in 2024, reaching an average of SAR 30,832/year (approximately SAR 2,569/month). Villa rents increased by 17.2% year-on-year to an average of SAR 88,715/year over the same period.

The market is regulated through the Ejar platform, the Saudi government's official system for registering and managing rental contracts. As of September 2025, a five-year rent freeze applies to existing contracts in Riyadh, meaning landlords cannot increase rents on active leases during this period. New contracts, however, are priced freely at market rates.

Demand is concentrated in the northern and central districts of the city, particularly around the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), Al Olaya, and the Diplomatic Quarter. Supply of quality furnished apartments has expanded significantly, with platforms such as Wasalt, Bayut KSA, and Aqar listing thousands of verified properties. The market remains competitive in premium segments, and prospective tenants are advised to begin their search at least four to six weeks before their intended move-in date.

Riyadh is a large and diverse city, and the choice of neighbourhood significantly affects both lifestyle and rental budget. Here is an overview of the main areas popular with expatriates and long-term tenants:

  • Al Olaya: The heart of Riyadh's central business district, Al Olaya offers luxury furnished apartments with direct access to major offices, shopping malls, and restaurants. It is particularly suited to professionals working in the financial or corporate sector. Rents are among the highest in the city.
  • Diplomatic Quarter (DQ): The most international and secure residential enclave in Riyadh, the Diplomatic Quarter is home to embassies, international organisations, and a large expat community. It features parks, walking paths, international schools, and a self-contained range of amenities. Supply is limited and rents are premium.
  • Al Malqa: Located in northern Riyadh, Al Malqa is a modern, family-friendly neighbourhood popular with expat families. It offers spacious apartments and villas, proximity to international schools, and a quieter residential atmosphere.
  • Hittin: An upscale, low-density residential district in north Riyadh, Hittin is known for its calm environment, wide streets, and high-quality housing stock. It attracts executives and families seeking a premium but less central location.
  • Al Nakheel: A balanced neighbourhood offering good connectivity to major roads and services, Al Nakheel appeals to professionals and families seeking a calmer residential setting without sacrificing access to the city.
  • Al Aqiq / Ar Rimal: These areas offer competitive rents for furnished apartments and are popular with working professionals. One-bedroom furnished units in these districts typically range from SAR 4,000 to SAR 6,500/month (source: Rent Remote, 2024).
  • King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD): A purpose-built mixed-use district in north Riyadh, KAFD is increasingly popular with professionals working in finance and technology, offering modern apartments and direct access to business facilities.

Riyadh's long-term rental market covers a wide spectrum of budgets. Tenants on a modest budget can find studios or small apartments in outer residential districts from around SAR 1,500/month. Mid-range renters — typically professionals or couples — will find comfortable one-bedroom apartments in well-connected neighbourhoods such as Al Nakheel or Al Aqiq for SAR 2,500–4,100/month. Families seeking spacious accommodation in established expat-friendly areas like Al Malqa or Hittin should budget between SAR 4,000 and SAR 8,000/month for a two- or three-bedroom apartment.

At the top end, furnished luxury apartments in Al Olaya or the Diplomatic Quarter can reach SAR 10,000–25,000/month. Beyond rent, tenants should factor in a one-time agent fee of approximately 2.5% of the annual rent, plus monthly utility costs for electricity, water, and internet, which are billed separately by the respective providers.

Rental budgets in Riyadh vary significantly depending on the district, property type, and furnishing level. According to data from Sands of Wealth (September 2025), monthly apartment rents range from approximately SAR 1,500/month for a basic studio in peripheral neighbourhoods to SAR 12,000/month or more for a large furnished apartment in premium central districts. One-bedroom apartments in mid-range areas typically fall between SAR 2,500 and SAR 4,100/month, while two- and three-bedroom units in family-friendly neighbourhoods such as Al Malqa or Al Nakheel can range from SAR 4,000 to SAR 8,000/month.

Villas command considerably higher rents: according to JLL, average annual villa rents in Riyadh reached SAR 88,715/year (approximately SAR 7,393/month) in 2024, with luxury compounds in the Diplomatic Quarter or Hittin exceeding that figure. Furnished units carry a premium of roughly 20–40% over unfurnished equivalents. Utilities (electricity, water, internet) are generally billed separately and are not included in the quoted rent.

Relocating to Riyadh involves navigating a rental market with specific local rules. Here are the most common mistakes to avoid:

  • Signing an unregistered contract: All rental agreements in Saudi Arabia must be registered on the Ejar platform, the government's official rental contract system. An unregistered contract offers no legal protection. Always verify registration within seven days of signing.
  • Not verifying the landlord's identity: Confirm that the landlord's name on the Ejar portal matches their official Saudi national ID (Hawiyya) before transferring any funds.
  • Overlooking the Iqama requirement: Many landlords require a valid Iqama (residence permit) before signing a lease. Arriving without one can delay your housing search significantly.
  • Paying rent in a single annual cheque without negotiation: Traditionally, rent was paid one year in advance. Regulatory updates now allow quarterly or monthly payment plans — always negotiate payment terms before signing.
  • Ignoring utility costs: Electricity, water, and internet are almost never included in the quoted rent. Budget for these separately, especially as summer air-conditioning bills can be substantial.
  • Skipping a property inspection report: The Ejar platform includes a move-in/move-out condition report. Failing to complete it leaves tenants exposed to unjustified damage claims at the end of the lease.
  • Accepting vague contract terms: Ensure the contract clearly states the property address, rent amount, payment schedule, deposit conditions, and maintenance responsibilities before signing.
  • Start your search early: The Riyadh rental market is competitive, especially in premium northern districts. Begin looking at least four to six weeks before your planned move-in date.
  • Use verified platforms: Search on established portals such as Bayut KSA, Wasalt, Aqar, and Property Finder KSA to access verified listings and reduce the risk of scams.
  • Always register on Ejar: Insist that your contract is registered on the Ejar platform (ejar.sa) within seven days of signing. This is a legal requirement and your primary protection as a tenant.
  • Negotiate payment terms: While annual upfront payment was historically the norm, regulatory changes now allow quarterly or monthly payment plans. Negotiate this before signing — it can significantly ease your cash flow.
  • Verify the landlord's identity: Cross-check the landlord's name on the Ejar portal against their official Saudi national ID (Hawiyya) before making any payment.
  • Budget for utilities separately: Electricity bills can be high in summer due to air conditioning. Request historical utility bills from the landlord before signing to avoid surprises.
  • Complete the move-in condition report: Use the Ejar platform's built-in property condition tool at move-in. This protects you from unjustified damage claims when you leave.
  • Factor in the agent fee: Licensed real estate agents typically charge around 2.5% of the annual rent as a one-time fee. Confirm this upfront and ensure you are working with a licensed broker.
  • Consider compound living for families: Residential compounds in areas like Al Malqa or Hittin often include shared amenities (pools, gyms, children's play areas) and a built-in expat community, which can ease the transition for families.

Finding the right long-term rental in Riyadh can be complex, especially for newcomers unfamiliar with local neighbourhoods, the Ejar registration system, and the specific documentation requirements for expatriate tenants. Remoters connects you with experienced rental search specialists who know the Riyadh market and can guide you through every step — from shortlisting properties in the right district to reviewing your lease and ensuring your contract is properly registered on the Ejar platform. Whether you are relocating alone, with a partner, or with a family, Remoters helps you find accommodation that matches your budget, lifestyle, and timeline.

What our clients say

Al Olaya, the business centre near the Kingdom Centre Tower, suits young professionals and couples. Hittin, in the north near KAFD, and the Diplomatic Quarter, a secure enclave with restricted access, are popular with expat executives, with high rents. Al Malqa, residential and international, attracts families.

On a tighter budget, Al Nakheel and Al Yasmin, in the north, are more affordable. Choose somewhere near your work: the city is very spread out and a car is often essential.

First check that the lease is registered on Ejar, REGA's official platform: the tenant can start the registration, and the landlord has 60 days to approve it. Without Ejar, your legal protection is limited.

Since January 2024, rent has been paid through Mada or SADAD: be wary of a landlord who demands cash or post-dated cheques for the year. Since September 2025, a five-year rent freeze has applied within Riyadh's urban boundary.

Expat families often favour compounds, secure residences with a pool, gym and guards; a 3-bedroom villa in a compound in the north starts at SAR 16,000/month. Facilities and house rules vary a lot: visit several.

Listings do not always make clear whether a home is furnished: check what is included (appliances, air conditioning, furniture) before signing. Furnished serviced homes cost more but often include a pool, guards and Wi-Fi.

A studio or small flat in a mid-range area costs SAR 2,000 to 3,000/month, and a one-bedroom flat SAR 2,750/month on average. In the Diplomatic Quarter, Hittin or Al Malqa, a two-bedroom flat rents for SAR 7,000 to 10,000/month.

Also plan for a deposit of 1 to 2 months' rent on top of the first month, often paid in advance. Search on Aqar, Bayut and Property Finder before you arrive: homes in popular areas go fast.